Split in Freedom People's Congress as Four MPs Eye Joining Sajith Premadasa's Samagi Jana Balawegaya

December 17, 2023

Tensions are rising within the Freedom People's Congress, led by Dullas Alahapperuma, as reports emerge of a potential split with four prominent members considering a move to join the Samagi Jana Balawegaya led by Sajith Premadasa, according to political sources.

The four Members of Parliament involved in this apparent shift are Professor G.L. Peiris, Dylan Perera, Professor Channa Jayasumana, and Dr. Nalaka Godaheva. Political insiders suggest that the quartet is set to align themselves with Sajith Premadasa's political platform in the near future.

Sources indicate that within Alahapperuma's party, there are divergent opinions regarding the alliance with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya. The pressing economic, political, and social challenges facing the country seem to be driving some members to advocate for uniting with Premadasa's team promptly. The four MPs reportedly announced their stance during a meeting of the Janata Sabha MLA group, expressing their intention to declare independence from the Freedom People's Congress.

However, discussions within Alahapperuma's party reveal a split in views. Some members argue for a swift alignment with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, emphasizing the urgency of responding to the country's crises. Meanwhile, others, including Dullas Alahapperuma, are reportedly proposing conditions and a program for any potential alliance with the opposition party.

Last Tuesday, the Freedom People's Comgress MPs convened at the party office in Nawala for an extensive discussion on the matter. It was during this meeting that Prof. G.L. Peiris, Dylan Perera, Prof. Channa Jayasumana, and Dr. Nalaka Godaheva expressed their belief that the Freedom Congress should join forces with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya at the earliest opportunity.