The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) will hold a “Janasatana” public rally in Anuradhapura today (12) under the leadership of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, SLPP National Convenor D.V. Chanaka said.
Chanaka said the rally would be held to protest what the party described as the Government’s failure to fulfil promises made to farmers and the general public.
He said the rally was also intended to pressure the Government to deliver on its commitments and address issues affecting the livelihoods of the people.
The rally is expected to draw SLPP supporters and party members from Anuradhapura and surrounding areas, as the party continues to step up its political activities and mobilise its grassroots support.
The event also comes amid increased political attention on the SLPP following the recent arrest and remand of SLPP Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa in connection with an investigation being conducted by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC).
Rajapaksa was arrested after reporting to CIABOC over an alleged Rs. 100 million bribe linked to an Airbus aircraft procurement deal and was subsequently remanded until September 18 by the Colombo Chief Magistrate’s Court. He has denied the allegations.
The arrest has become a major point of discussion within the SLPP, with the party and its supporters criticising the Government’s handling of investigations involving opposition politicians, while the Government has maintained that law enforcement and anti-corruption institutions must be allowed to carry out their duties independently.
Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa remains a key figure in the SLPP, which has been seeking to consolidate its political base and increase public engagement through a series of rallies and meetings.
