The United National Party (UNP) has informed that it will not participate in the May Day Rally organized by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) this year, citing the coincidence of May 1 with the religious observance of the full moon Poya day.
In a letter dated April 27, UNP General Secretary Thalatha Atukorale noted that while many people expect the UNP and SJB to work together, the party had already decided to refrain from political activities on May Day when it falls on a Poya day.
She recalled that former President Ranasinghe Premadasa had emphasized the importance of dedicating such occasions to religious observances rather than political events.
Atukorale stated that, as a result, UNP members will not be able to participate in the May Day rallies organized by the SJB or any other party this year.
However, she reiterated that the UNP remains prepared to collaborate with the SJB in future political activities, and expressed wishes for success in the SJB’s endeavours. (Newswire)
