Patali Champika decides to go independent; Dismisses claims that he was expecting a ministry

COLOMBO (News 1st); Parliamentarian Patali Champika Ranawaka has decided to function as an Independent MP in the Opposition with effect from Wednesday (8).

Making a special statement in Parliament, Ranawaka said he was elected from the Samagi Jana Balavegaya after contesting for the Colombo District, and that he decided to function as an Independent MP.

The MP said he informed his decision in writing to Opposition Leader and Samagi Jana Balavegaya Leader Sajith Premadasa. He also said that he has no intention to obtain a ministerial position in the government, and dismissed media and social media claims that he decided to become independent because he wanted to become a government minister.