He should be given power to continue the program which is taking the country forward
Deputy Speaker Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna MP
During a time of immense crisis—including the Covid-19 pandemic, economic turmoil, and subsequent social challenges—President Ranil Wickremesinghe stepped in decisively, working tirelessly to restore our nation with the support of all. Despite having only two years, he has earned the trust and confidence of the people and has made significant progress.
Given his proven leadership and the positive direction in which he is taking the country, it is our collective responsibility to ensure he has the mandate to continue this crucial work for the next five years. By supporting him, we commit to advancing these efforts and driving our nation forward. That is why we have chosen to back his leadership.
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We cannot experiment anymore
Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry PC
Given the current critical state of our country’s economy, it is essential to look beyond narrow political interests. We are facing a severe economic crisis that requires leadership with a broad vision and extensive experience. Over the past two years, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has demonstrated significant progress and effective management under challenging conditions. At this juncture, we cannot afford further experiments with untested leadership. Therefore, the most prudent decision for the country, considering all factors, is to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe at this crucial time.
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It is not a time to take the matter lightly
Minister of Fisheries Piyal Nishantha
Over two years ago, our country faced an extremely precarious situation. A severe economic crisis gripped the nation, exacerbated by a political crisis driven by narrow political interests. On one side, politicians seeking to exploit the situation for personal gain worsened the instability. Meanwhile, the frustration of the people towards the Government, initially supported by 6.9 million votes, was further pushing the country backwards.
The Government collapsed in a highly conspiratorial manner, revealing certain deficiencies in leadership. This led to a state of anarchy and deepened the crisis. When the leader of the Opposition, Sajith Premadasa, was asked to take responsibility, he shirked the challenge, displaying a typical fear of accepting responsibility in favour of a narrow personal victory.
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The current President transformed the economy
Podujana Peramuna MP S.B Dissanayake
President Ranil Wickremesinghe revived the collapsed economy in a remarkably short time. He laid a strong foundation for economic transformation, resulting in the fastest development since independence. Amidst the economic crisis, he rescued the nation and set it on a path to recovery. This is why we support him, recognising his crucial role in stabilising and advancing our country’s economy.
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We have taken this decision for the country
Minister of Urban Development and Housing Chief Government Whip Prasanna Ranatunge
We acted against President Ranil Wickremesinghe for political purposes. I was among those who vocally opposed him the most. However, the struggle made us see the country’s situation in a new light. Although the struggle may not have been justified, it is understandable that people react strongly when democracy is threatened.
We experienced the dark side of the struggle firsthand—our houses were set on fire, and we were attacked. After the turmoil, no one was willing to take responsibility for the chaos. This made us realise the gravity of the situation and the importance of stable leadership.
During that tumultuous period, it was former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who stepped in and took charge. Recognising the gravity of the situation, we agreed to support him unconditionally. He played a crucial role in calming the unrest and shifting the mentality away from struggle and conflict. By creating a stable environment, he laid the groundwork for recovery, and we united to support his efforts.
Other party leaders admitted they couldn’t handle the economic crisis’s challenges. In just two years, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, with the support of MPs and Ministers from Pohottuwa, brought the country to where it is today. Regardless of our political views, we must support Ranil Wickremesinghe for his tangible contributions to the nation.
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Collapse of this Government will lead to another crisis
State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe
Many people see the support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe as an attempt to gain personal privileges. However, they fail to understand the consequences if this support were to falter. Without President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the country would struggle to move forward even for a month. His leadership is crucial for our continued progress and stability.
If that happens, the risk will be significant and widely misunderstood. Instability in the country will affect health facilities, goods and services, and our agreements with the IMF, World Bank, and creditors, plunging us back into crisis. We still owe nearly USD six billion in debt. It’s crucial to think more deeply about the economic future of this country and ensure the stability provided by President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s leadership.
If Ranil Wickremesinghe does not continue to govern this country, we will likely see a return to the difficulties of the past within the first six months. This potential regression is why most of us have decided to support him. His leadership is essential to maintaining the progress and stability we’ve achieved.
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We took this decision as we cannot allow country to regress and be destroyed
Podujana Peramuna MP Kokila Gunawardana
I believe that political decisions should always prioritise the country’s welfare. The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna is a party we built with love and dedication. However, the party has not aligned with the people’s current needs and sentiments. Therefore, we had to make these decisions reluctantly, but with the country’s best interests in mind.
Looking back two years, it’s clear where our country stood. At that time, it was the Podujana Peramuna government that decided to entrust Ranil Wickremesinghe with the task of rebuilding the nation. With the support of Pohottuwa, he successfully restored the country and fulfilled his role as president. As a group of MPs, we provided the necessary support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe. We have reached a point where we believe that the progress made cannot be undone or destroyed. As a woman and a mother, I personally understand the stakes. During the period when electricity was cut off for 14-15 hours, many women, including those who supported their families through self-employment were severely impacted. This experience reinforced my commitment to supporting leadership that ensures stability and progress for all.
Therefore, the country needs mature political leadership capable of managing these challenges effectively. Ranil Wickremesinghe is the most suitable person for this role, which is why I have decided to support him.
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Majority of the public supports Ranil Wickremesinghe
Minister of Industries and IT Dr Ramesh Pathirana
I decided to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe because he is the only leader capable of advancing the country at this crucial time. Before making this decision, we consulted village-level party members, local assembly members, and public representatives. The majority consensus was to back President Wickremesinghe, reflecting broad support for his leadership. If the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna is considering fielding a separate candidate for Namal Rajapaksa’s political future, it may be more prudent at this time not to field a candidate. Prioritising the country’s immediate needs and stability should come first.
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We need the leadership which saved the country from the dire economic abyss
State Minister of Investment Promotion Dilum Amunuguama
It is nothing short of a miracle that a country, which experienced severe economic collapse, was brought back to a stable state within just two years. No other nation facing such economic turmoil has achieved stability in such a short time. Electing President Ranil Wickremesinghe is the right choice, given his knowledge, experience, and global connections, making him the only leader capable of fully recovering the country.
I believe it is both just and correct to re-elect the same leadership for the next five years. Continuity in leadership will ensure that the progress made is sustained and that the country continues on its path to recovery and stability.
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He is a leader with global support
Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna MP Mahindananda Aluthgamage
We are facing a critical moment as our country, which suffered an economic collapse, is beginning to recover. To avoid slipping back into the abyss, we need a leader who can rebuild the nation effectively. At this time, we require someone with experience, the ability to make decisive actions, and strong international support. No other candidate possesses the same qualifications and political maturity.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s handling of the International Monetary Fund and his negotiations with the Prime Ministers of China and Japan in just one year demonstrate exceptional political maturity.
He is uniquely capable of uniting all political parties and guiding the country forward.
He is seeking another five-year term to continue these essential steps. We must consider whether entrusting the country to another leader who has not proven themselves in such a short time is wise. Setting aside party differences, we in the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna stand united for the country’s future and support his continued leadership.
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Only the President has five-pronged approach to economy
Minister of Transport, Highways and Media Dr. Bandula Gunawardena
President Ranil Wickremesinghe is uniquely positioned to elevate our nation’s economy to unprecedented heights. That’s why we in the Pohottuwa have united to secure his victory. Under his leadership, crucial legislation has been introduced to address our economic challenges.
He has implemented measures to halt the Central Bank’s currency printing, which had been driving up the cost of goods. The Debt Control Act has been enacted to prevent excessive borrowing at high interest rates, safeguarding our financial stability.
Furthermore, the Financial Management Act ensures that budget allocations are made transparently and without political manipulation, with a dedicated office in Parliament now overseeing budget preparation.
The Economic Transformation Act, developed with broad political consensus, is set to steer our economy onto a more promising path. In addition, a robust anti-corruption law has been established, making it nearly impossible for politicians, authorities, and officials to engage in theft, fraud, or corruption.
With this comprehensive economic strategy, Ranil Wickremesinghe stands as the only candidate equipped to lead us effectively. We are confident that his vision and reforms will secure his victory in the presidential election.
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We must be thankful to the leader who saved our country
Minister of Technology Kanaka Herath
Only President Ranil Wickremesinghe was able to steer the country out of its crises within a short period of two years. His dedication and work ethic enabled him to accept the challenge, restore the country to a stable state, and guide it towards economic stability.
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Appointing those who harm the country is futile
Podujana Peramuna MP S.M Chandrasen
The people of the SLPP entrusted President Ranil Wickremesinghe with the leadership of our country, and he has fulfilled this role commendably. As President, he prioritised the nation’s recovery during a time of severe economic distress. His efforts were instrumental in stabilising the political instability that had emerged over a short period of two years. We have much to be grateful for in his leadership and dedication to rebuilding our country.
He has garnered international support and established strong connections, which are crucial at this time. Experiments with unproven leadership are not feasible when the country is in need of effective governance. Appointing individuals who have not demonstrated their ability to benefit the nation is not an option. Therefore, it is essential for the people to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who has already proven his commitment and effectiveness in advancing our country.
We are endorsing the election of a leader like him for the next five years, putting aside party affiliations and differences. It is crucial for everyone to unite and vote for him. He has committed to governing with respect for our policies, and we trust that he will honour those principles. Our decision is made with the country’s best interests in mind. If we do not come together and prevent further division, the nation risks falling back into turmoil, which would negatively impact all its citizens.
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President proved that unity in diversity works
SLPP MP Premnath C. Dolawatte, AAL
More than 92 members of the Podujana Peramuna are ready to support President Wickremesinghe. He is running as an independent candidate. We should go beyond narrow political goals and work together as a principle.
We are not worried, we think that the members of the Podujana Peramuna believe that he should stay on. At this time, a decision should be taken on behalf of the country. We should take a decision for the country and not for our politics. It was President Wickremesinghe who proved unity in diversity. President Ranil Wickremesinghe proved that by working with the Pohottuwa group of MPs, the Opposition political ideologies can travel on the same platform with the same objectives.
