Anyone who respects our policies and principals is welcome to join me-Minister Sajith Premadasa

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Minister Sajith Premadasa, presidential candidate of the UNP convened a media briefing to express his thoughts following his formal nomination as the presidential candidate of the UNP. Presidential candidate, Sajith Premadasa noted that he and his party are committed to bringing forth an era where all people can benefit from the fruits of progress, prosperity and development and to bring about an era where humane values reign supreme within a unitary Sri Lanka. He added that there is a process of democratic reforms that were initiated by the United National Front government since 2015 and he hopes to continue this process of democratic reforms while consulting all relevant stakeholders. He went on to note that they are also committed to carrying out reforms on the devolution of power within a unitary Sri Lanka and on reforming the electoral system and presidency, with the consultation of all relevant stakeholders. Journalist: "Were there any conditions imposed ahead of granting you the candidacy?" Minister responded that there were no conditions whatsoever and no conditions will be entertained. He added that those who truly know him that he would not go through any conditions. Journalist: "Will there be a change in the position of Prime Minister and Party Leader if you win the presidency?" Minister noted that the priority at the moment was regarding the presidency and he would not go to make predictions on what will happen after the presidency is won. He added that the leader of the UNP will continue to function in his position as the party leader and prime minister. Background of the UNP presidential candidate, Sajith Premadasa Sajith Premadasa is the only son of the late Ranasinghe Premadasa, who was the 2nd Executive President of Sri Lanka. Sajith Premadasa began his political career in the 1990s, from the rural district of Hambantota. In the year 2000, Sajith Premadasa entered Parliament amassing the highest number of votes in Hambantota and the highest preferential vote percentage in the entire country. He was appointed as the Deputy Minister of Health in the year 2001 and also rendered his services to the people as a member of parliament. After being appointed the Minister of Housing and Construction in the present Government, he revived the 'Udaagammana' concept, initially introduced by his father. Through the 'Udaagammana' concept, he has succeeded in providing more than 288 villages for the people. In order to further the constitutional duty of safeguarding Buddhism, Premadasa also initiated the "Sasunata Aruna" and "Wewai Dagabai, Gamai Pansalai" programs. As Minister of Cultural Affairs, Premadasa rendered a yeoman of service to all communities in the country, demonstrating a capacity to celebrate the diversity of the country while safeguarding its identity. However, as a result of the sycophancy of several members within his own party, his candidacy to contest for the upcoming Presidential Election was not confirmed, even after the date for the Presidential Election was announced.