Sajith Premadasa steps down as UNP Deputy Leader

Colombo (News 1st): Presidential Candidate of the New Democratic Front Sajith Premadasa issuing a special statement this afternoon said, at the conclusion of a hard-fought and spirited election campaign, it was his privilege to honour the decision of the people. He congratulated Gotabaya Rajapaksa on his election as the seventh Executive President of Sri Lanka. In his statement, he adds, "In light of today’s decision by the electorate, I have decided to step down as the Deputy Leader of the United National Party with immediate effect." He adds, '' In the coming weeks, in consultation with all those who supported my presidential bid, the people who have stood by me through my political journey and my loved ones, I will reflect on the future of my political career and where my life will take me hereafter." Sajith Premadasa adds, that he is "bound to the people of Sri Lanka, and will remain their faithful servant, today and always." In his statement, he expresses his heartfelt gratitude to all citizens from all corners of the island, who voted for him and placed their faith in him. He adds, that their support has been a fountain of strength throughout his twenty-six-year-long political career. He also thanked everyone who worked tirelessly on his campaign and added that he and his family will never forget their sacrifice and dedication. He adds, Sri Lanka, witnessed the most peaceful presidential election in the history of our independent republic, which was a result of the democratic gains and institutional reforms that have taken place over the last five years. His appeal to the incoming President is that he takes this process forward and strengthen and protect the democratic institutions and values that enabled his peaceful election as the 7th President of Sri Lanka. Sajith Premadasa also urges Gotabaya Rajapaksa to ensure that the post-election environment is peaceful and that no citizen or NDF party supporter is persecuted or harmed for their role in supporting his candidacy. Sajith Premadasa concludes, '' It has been my privilege to serve as Housing Minister in this Government for five years, prioritizing the creation of a home-owning society by 2025 and I hope the people will understand that these were sincere, heartfelt efforts to uplift the lives of my fellow citizens ''.