Sri Lanka's political landscape has witnessed a dramatic upsurge in tensions within the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party, with Member of Parliament (MP) Nimal Lanza issuing a bold challenge to his fellow SLPP MPs, Namal Rajapaksa and Sagara Kariyawasam, as well as President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Lanza's statement comes amidst growing speculation about the SLPP's political direction, including the upcoming presidential elections in 2024.

In a fiery statement, MP Nimal Lanza expressed his discontent with colleagues who are critical of the government's budget proposal. Lanza addressed MPs Rajapaksa and Kariyawasam, stating, "What I have to say to Govt MPs Namal Rajapaksa and Sagara Kariyawasam is, if you are opposed to the budget, come and vote against it, defeat the government and go for a parliamentary election. We’re all prepared for that. No matter how much they shout, they will not defeat the budget. If you can, accept my challenge and defeat it."

These comments have laid bare the deep divisions within the SLPP, as well as the ongoing power struggle within the party.

Lanza has emerged as a prominent figure leading a group of SLPP MPs who are staunchly advocating for President Ranil Wickremesinghe to be named as the presidential candidate for the SLPP-led alliance in the 2024 elections. The faction is seen as being at odds with influential elements within the party, including individuals aligned with the Rajapaksa family.

The SLPP, which currently leads the government, is grappling with internal strife as factions within the party disagree on key issues, including the government's budget proposal and the selection of a presidential candidate for the 2024 elections.

President Wickremesinghe, who has been at the center of this power struggle, has not yet publicly declared his candidacy for the presidential elections. Nevertheless, he remains a highly influential figure within the SLPP and has been a key player in Sri Lankan politics for many years.