Swan re-emerges as a possible symbol for SJB

Colombo (News 1st) - The office of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) was declared open this morning by it's leader Sajith Premadasa. Former Minister Rajitha Senaratne attended the opening held in Kotte today. Senaratne speaking to reporters after the event noted that the issues faced by the party have been resolved and that everyone would be moving forward under the symbol of the swan. When questioned whether the UNP would submit a separate nomination list for the election, Senaratne stated that a combined nomination paper would be submitted. He also revealed that he would contest from the Kalutara district and would not seek a national list seat. Former UNP MP Sujeewa Senasinghe speaking to reporters noted that seniors such has Rajitha Senaratne, Lakshman Kiriella and P. Harrison had joined hands with the SJB and that it was up to Ranil Wickremesinghe and Akila Kariyawasam to loose of to join the SJB and emerge victorious. When questioned about the possibility of another nomination list, Sujjewa noted that he was not aware of it and that Ranil Wickremesinghe would be the right person to answer that question. A large number of former UNP MPs were present at the occasion and they echoed similar sentiments. They noted that 95 % of the UNP had joined hands with the SJB and urged the rest to join them as well. They also noted that they clearly identify as people who are not prepared to strike deals with the Rajapaksas or the current administration. Meanwhile, another discussion was held at the residence of Karu Jayasuriya today. Former parliamentarian Arjuna Ranatunga and Karu Jayasuriya were the mediators during the meeting. A team including Sujeewa Senasinghe and Upul Jayasuriya represented the Samagi Jana Balawegaya while Saman Ratnapriya, Daya Pelpola, and a few others represented the United National Party.