by Our Correspondent in Colombo
A number of Sri Lanka’s former presidents and senior opposition leaders are set to hold a special press conference in Colombo tomorrow in support of Ranil Wickremesinghe, who is currently in remand prison.
The conference is expected to be attended by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, former President Maithripala Sirisena and several key opposition figures. A preparatory meeting was held today at Wickremesinghe’s political office in Malpara, Colombo, focusing on strategies to continue representing the former president.
Those present included Dayasiri Jayasekara, Thalatha Athukorala, Ruwan Wijewardene, Mano Ganeshan, P. Digambaram, Rishad Bathiudeen, Rauff Hakeem, Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Vajira Abeywardena, Sagala Ratnayake, Sugeeshwara Bandara, along with leaders and representatives of various opposition parties.
Former Presidents Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and Gotabaya Rajapaksa have also expressed support, though they will not attend. Sources indicate that Gotabaya Rajapaksa is currently abroad, while Kumaratunga will be absent due to a leg injury.
Speaking at a media briefing today, UNP Chairman Vajira Abeywardena said that Kumaratunga had strongly opposed the government’s handling of Wickremesinghe’s detention, emphasising that opposition leaders remain united in their support.
Meanwhile, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa visited Magazine Prison to check on Wickremesinghe’s wellbeing. Speaking to reporters, Rajapaksa described the imprisonment as an act of “revenge” and expressed regret over the situation.
“It is unacceptable to impose punishment for such minor offences,” he said. “But in politics, these incidents are not uncommon. If you do politics, this is your heritage. Ranil also inherits it. Still, it is truly sad. People love us, and we love people. That is why they continue to stand with us.”
Tomorrow’s press conference is expected to draw national attention and intensify the debate surrounding Wickremesinghe’s detention, highlighting growing calls from across party lines for fair treatment.
