Opposition Leaders Unite to Defend Democracy; SJB Absents 🏛️

• Event Overview: Leaders from multiple opposition factions met in Colombo under the theme ‘Protecting Democracy, Rule of Law and the Sovereignty of the People.’ The gathering aimed to foster coordination among political groups outside the current Government. • Key Political Alignment: Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe (via message) and UNP leadership emphasized that unity is essential for the opposition to succeed against current national challenges. Prof. G.L. Peiris advocated for a joint program that addresses key issues while maintaining individual party identities. Patali Champika Ranawaka (United Republican Front) raised concerns over administrative shortcomings and the targeting of capable individuals. • Participant Breakdown: Attendees included representatives from the UNP, SLPP (Media Spokesman), and various former ministers and MPs such as Nimal Siripala de Silva, Mahinda Amaraweera, and Mano Ganesan. • Notable Absence: The main opposition party, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), did not attend the meeting, highlighting a continued rift in broader opposition coordination. 📉