No divisions within SJB: Gen. Secy.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) today denied reports that there are divisions within the party, but notified that issues with Chaminda Wijesiri have almost been resolved. 

SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara said there is no move to call explanation from MP Chaminda Wijesiri who criticized SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa. 

Meanwhile, Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella told a press conference on Saturday that the issue with Mr. Wijesiri has been almost resolved. "I have spoken to Mr. Wijesiri and others in the party and he is very much within our fold" Mr. Kiriella said. 

MPs Kabir Hashim and Talatha Atukorala also denied reports of divisions. Ms. Atukorala responded to reports which were published on certain websites that both MPs Wijesiri and Harsha Withanage are to cross over to the government during the budget, said there is no such move.

 Asked about the reports that ten SJB MPs will go back to UNP and back the former Premier, she said no one will cross over despite the close association which some SJB MPs have with Ranil Wickremesinghe. "Mr. Wickremesinghe is our former leader and some of us associate with him  closly. However that does not mean that we are going back to UNP," she reiterated. (Yohan Perera)