President Ranil Wickremesinghe has introduced numerous ordinances to Parliament within a remarkably short span of one year. Notably, he has successfully shepherded through the Parliament the most robust anti-corruption legislation in Asia, solidifying it as law and charting a course for the nation’s advancement, said Wajira Abeywardena, the Chairman of the United National Party and a Member of Parliament.

Abeywardena made these comments during his participation in a press conference held today (21) at the Presidential Media Centre.

Abeywardena highlighted the exceptional characteristic of Ranil Wickremesinghe’s national leadership, emphasising his capacity to collaborate effectively with groups, regardless of their compatibility. He stressed that the current moment presents a favourable occasion to leverage Wickremesinghe’s experience and knowledge for the betterment of the nation. He also emphasised the necessity for a comprehensive overhaul of the entire system.

He pointed out that the prevailing political fragmentation within the parliament poses a significant challenge to the nation’s development. He called for an end to the practise of engaging with weaker politicians and urged everyone to rally behind the initiatives spearheaded by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, aiming to foster unity and progress in the country.

Abeywardena further elaborated on historical and contemporary political dynamics. He recalled that during the struggle for independence, Sri Lankan political parties collaborated cohesively. Even in the aftermath of an electoral loss where D.S. Senanayake forfeited 42 out of 98 seats, the alliance of Tamil leaders like Ponnambalan Arunachalam and Ponnambalan Ramanathan from the north, along with parties like the Lanka Sama Samaja Party and the Communist Party,
and independent groups, united to ensure Mr. Senanayake’s appointment as the first Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. This unity played a pivotal role in achieving the nation’s independence.