SJB constitution is democratic; anyone can become its leader

Party will continue with Sajith as leader

• There is no tussle for candidature/leadership between anyone

By Yohan Perera 

The constitution of Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) is democratic which gives an opportunity for anyone to become the leader, but the party will move ahead with the present leadership of Sajith Premadasa, an MP said yesterday. 

SJB MP Eran Wickramaratne told a press conference that anyone can become the leader of SJB as per its constitution which is democratic. “We have decided at the moment to move ahead with Mr. Premadasa and we shall do so as of now,” the MP said. 

He said this in response to a question raised by journalists on the reports that there is a tussle among Mr. Premadasa, MPs Patali Champika Ranawaka and Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka to become the leader of the party and the presidential candidate in 2024. 

“There is no tussle for candidature or the leadership between anyone,” he said. 

MP Gayantha Karunatilleka who also participated in the press conference said SJB is ready to face any elections any time but added that his party will discuss and decide on whether the provincial council election should be held under the present pandemic situation. 

• Party to discuss whether provincial council election should be held under the present pandemic situation