UNP SJB talks, initial discussions successful but still a long way to go

• Both parties still to agree on a symbol

By Yohan Perera   

Initial discussions between the United National Party (UNP)  and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) which is aimed at a political alliance  is positive but there is a long way to go, General Secretaries of both  parties said yesterday.   
UNP General Secretary Thalatha Athukorala told media that  initial discussions between the two parties have been a success. However, she said there is still a long way to go. “We will have to discuss many  matters. Both parties are still to agree on a symbol. We will inform  the nation about the outcome of the discussions at the right time,” she  said.   

SJB General Secretary Ranjith Madduma Bandara also said the  initial discussion was a success. Asked whether SJBers will go back to  Sirikotha, Mr. Madduma Bandara said such an eventuality is not on the  cards. “It is not important whether we go to Sirikotha or whether UNPers  would come to SJB headquarters. However, we are looking at contesting  future elections together,” he said.   

Ms. Athukorala also confirmed that both parties are looking towards an electoral alliance.   

Both Ms. Athukorala and Mr. Madduma Bandara said leaders of the two political parties will also have a discussion shortly.   

Meanwhile, both SJBers and UNPers have come out with various  suggestions with regard to a political marriage. SJB MP Mujibur Rahman  said earlier during the week that UNPers should be absorbed into the SJB  while former Minister Navin Dissanayake was reported saying that both  parties should look for a new common symbol other than the elephant and  telephone.