Joint Opposition vows to fight for Ranil Wickremesinghe’s release

23 August 2025 01:48 pm Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 27 Bookmark

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Senior leaders of the United National Party (UNP) have called for a united opposition campaign to secure the release of former President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who was remanded by the Fort Magistrate’s Court till August 26.

UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene, Assistant Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala, Chairman Vajira Abeywardena, Vice Chairman Navin Dissanayake and National Organiser Sagala Ratnayake made the announcement during a media briefing held this morning.

“We are beginning to wonder if the country is now being governed with a sense of vengeance,” said Ruwan Wijewardene, describing Wickremesinghe’s arrest as an act of political victimisation.

“Leaders from across the political spectrum who were present at court believe this arrest is politically motivated. The stage is now being set for a joint opposition effort to confront the growing suppression by the government,” he added.

General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala accused the government of suffering from what she called 'Ranil-phobia.'

“All political parties are now beginning to unite,” she said and asked “Why is the government so afraid of a former President?”

UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena, who visited Wickremesinghe in prison, said the former President appeared calm and composed, showing no signs of mental distress.

Vice Chairman Navin Dissanayake emphasised that the UNP, in collaboration with other political forces, will continue its efforts to secure Wickremesinghe’s release.

“We will not abandon our leader,” he said.

Assistant Leader Akila Viraj Kariyawasam highlighted Wickremesinghe’s decades-long service to the country as a Minister, Prime m6inister and Head of State, stating that his contributions should not be forgotten in a moment of political turmoil.

The UNP leadership has pledged to intensify its campaign in the coming days, aiming to build a broad alliance against what they describe as increasing political repression under the current administration.