Dozens of MPs from the dissolved ninth Parliament have decided to leave politics, citing reasons such as old age, ill health, and an increasingly unfavorable political environment. This comes in the wake of the recent Presidential election, which saw the rise of the National People’s Power (NPP), marking a historic change in post-independence Sri Lankan politics.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), previously the ruling party, has announced it will not nominate MPs who departed ahead of the Presidential election, prompting these politicians to seek candidacies with emerging political alliances.

Notable figures such as former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, his brother Chamal Rajapaksa, and former Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe have confirmed their decisions not to contest in the upcoming General Election on November 14. Chamal Rajapaksa’s son, Shasheendra, will represent the SLPP in Moneragala. Meanwhile, MP Ali Sabry has opted to return to his legal practice after serving a single term.

Health concerns have also influenced decisions, with MP Vasudeva Nanayakkara stepping back due to illness. Similarly, former MP Lakshman Kiriella will not run, instead supporting his daughter, Chamindrani, who will contest from Kandy.