MP Tissa Attanayake says the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) is now in full preparation mode for the Local Government elections that are expected to take place in early 2023. Attanayake who is also the national organiser of the party said the Government is attempting various tactics to delay polls while Ministers are claiming there is no need for an election at this juncture. He also pointed out that the rival United National Party and its members are also claiming the Government does not have the necessary funds to hold a vote. “This is because they are in fear. A Government must be able to face the mandate of the people fearlessly. But the SJB is ready to face an election at any given moment,” the MP said.

Attanayake made these comments during a press conference held yesterday at the office of the Opposition Leader in Colombo.

The MP said the party expects the Election Commission of Sri Lanka to release a gazette announcing the date for nominations as well as other necessary instructions. He said the Samagi Jana Sandhanaya, consisting of several supporting political parties, are currently in discussion to face the polls as an alliance. “This week a meeting between the party organisers will be held and interviews will also be held for those who requested nominations,” he added. According to Attanayake, the party has already received a large number of applications.

He said the SJB will focus on giving more representation for youth and women which will reflect in its nominations list.

“We are not afraid to face an election. We want to see the people’s decision and their opinion through this poll. Therefore we warn the Government to refrain from attempting to delay it. We have already gone to court over this. We are awaiting the decision of the courts and we are also preparing to hold public protests. We will bring together all parties of the opposition to form a people’s movement pushing for elections. Therefore we ask the Government to not give various excuses to avoid a vote. We challenge the Government to hold elections as scheduled,” he said.