SJB dismisses UNP’s move to lift suspension of former members as ‘irrelevant’

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has downplayed reports that the United National Party (UNP) plans to lift suspensions imposed on former members who joined the SJB, saying the decision holds little significance for the now separate political entity.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, SJB National Organiser and MP Tissa Attanayake said that the party has not received any formal communication from the UNP regarding the decision.

He added that the move appears aimed at maintaining goodwill rather than impacting the SJB’s political standing.

“We are now a separate political movement, working as an independent party. So, whether they lift the ban or not is not relevant to us,” Attanayake said.

Regarding the upcoming UNP annual convention, Attanayake noted that the SJB has yet to receive an official invitation but expressed willingness to attend if invited, describing such invitations as routine protocol.

Meanwhile, SJB MP Nalin Bandara Jayamaha acknowledged the potential for future cooperation between the SJB and UNP, highlighting possibilities for alliance-building ahead.