In an unprecedented move, President Ranil Wickremesinghe is set to contest at the upcoming Presidential election as an "Independent, National Candidate." The decision, revealed through authoritative UNP sources, was extensively deliberated during a key meeting attended by influential decision-makers of the United National Party (UNP).

The forthcoming Presidential election, anticipated to take place in September, is poised to witness President Wickremesinghe running as an independent candidate, signaling a departure from traditional party affiliations. The decision is strategically designed to foster broad-based support, transcending political boundaries and allowing individuals from various political backgrounds to rally behind the incumbent President.

President Wickremesinghe's move to contest as an independent candidate is expected to create a unique political landscape, providing an opportunity for collaboration across party lines. Reports suggest that the UNP, a segment of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), and a faction of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) are likely to extend their support to President Wickremesinghe's candidacy.

By positioning himself as an independent candidate, President Wickremesinghe aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort in achieving national objectives.