UNP - SJB seek to contest LG polls under common symbol

By Shane Seneviratne - Kandy

The United National Party (UNP) and the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) are trying to work out arrangements to contest the upcoming local government elections under a common symbol, said UNP General Secretary, Thalatha Athukorala.   

She made these remarks to the media after visiting the Malwathu Maha Viharaya yesterday (30) and receiving blessings from the Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Thero, the Mahanayake of the Malwatta Chapter. Prior to this, she paid homage to the Dalada Maligawa.   

She said that the two leaders are carrying out discussions with great optimism, ensuring that no one will undermine the process.   

She also highlighted the need to discuss the composition of candidates from both sides for the upcoming local government elections, adding that if the discussions are successful, other parties may join the alliance.   

She added that the current government, which has been given two-thirds of power for the next five years, must address key issues such as the rice crisis, the coconut situation, the monkey problem, and, even the so-called pressing matters of coconut milk curry, sambol, and the excessive rice consumption of dogs and cats.