Sajith Premadasa has been appointed as the Deputy Leader of the United National Party (UNP). Ravi Karunnayake has been named as Assistant Leader while Eran Wikramaratne and Akila Viraj Kariyawasam have been appointed as Treasurer and Deputy General Secretary respectively.
Meanwhile Ranjith Madduma Bandara has been appointed as Senior Deputy Chairman, Thalatha Athukorale as Secretary of Election Affairs and Harin Fernanado as Chairman of the National Youth Front.
Speaking to media following the working committee meeting held last evening Premadasa said he is pleased with the responsibility vested with him in the capacity of Deputy Leader.
He referred to a statement made by him several years ago where he stated he will support the Opposition Leader if he stands for a Presidential Election.
Assistant Leader Ravi Karunanayake said the party will unite to ensure victory for the party.
He said the members of the party will not look for personal political gain but will instead work towards victory at the next election.
Treasurer Eran Wickramaratne said the UNP will come into power next year and will make all necessary alterations to ensure change.
He said the party’s aim is to establish a government.
Former parliamentarian Harin Fernando meanwhile, who was proposed for the position of chairman of the National Youth Front by its former leader Ruwan Wijewardene, said if Wijewardene steps down he will also lose his seat at the Leadership Council adding he believes Wijewardene should continue to be part of the Council.
Fernando said he is being offered several posts but added his prime focus at present is the people in the Uva province who placed their faith in him.
He said he has asked for some time to decide on his future course of action after prioritising the people in Uva.
