Ranil Wickremesinghe will contest the upcoming presidential election as an independent candidate, according to Chief of Staff to the President and National Security Advisor, Sagala Ratnayaka. Speaking at an event in Kollonawa on Wednesday, Ratnayaka confirmed that despite Wickremesinghe's departure from the United National Party (UNP) for the election, the UNP will still support his candidacy.

Ratnayaka said that the elections will proceed as scheduled, dismissing any doubts about potential delays. He also mentioned that discussions are ongoing to secure backing from other political parties for Wickremesinghe's independent run.