MP Patali Champika Ranawaka today launched a veiled attack on Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stating that the future of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya would depend on the behavior of the Opposition Leader.

This came a day after a newspaper supporting Premadasa alleged that Ranawaka "knelt" before Premadasa at the parliamentary group meeting of the party and pledged allegiance to the Opposition Leader. Ranawaka made this remark while tensions within the SJB are rising as a section of the party are dissatisfied with Premadasa's style of leadership.

"We don't hide behind veils and sling mud at people. If we have a problem, we will criticise directly," Ranawaka said, addressing a press conference in Colombo.

The MP also added that he was instrumental in making Premadasa the Opposition Leader after the Presidential election in 2019.

However, he denied claims that he would support former Prime Minister to become the Opposition Leader upon the latter's entry into Parliament.

"Wickremesingehe represents the remnants of elitist politics in Sri Lanka. We actively work towards ending their brand of politics," Ranawaka added.