Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that it is no longer possible to move forward using traditional methods within the current landscape of party politics, and that the party should not rely solely on joining the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) to attain power. The former President made these remarks today (30) while addressing a meeting of the United National Party (UNP) Working Committee at the party headquarters, Sirikotha.
Speaking on the occasion, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe noted that such a victory cannot be achieved through traditional political methods alone. Pointing out that the participation of the new generation is essential for achieving political victories, the former President emphasized that it is imperative to include both Gen Z and the millennial generation in this process.
Elaborating further, former President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated the following: “We need to develop a new image and carry out a corresponding restructuring. If we look at the political landscape even on a global scale things are changing. When considering our future voter base, we must account for those who are currently 15 or 16 years old; they will soon be added to the electoral roll. This includes Millennials and Gen Z a demographic of about 8 million people. We need to focus on these new groups and move forward with them in mind. As a party, we require a fresh image; we must engage and bring along both the Gen Z and Millennial cohorts.
We cannot afford to sideline these new groups. We cannot continue in the traditional manner; doing so would mean losing them entirely. Furthermore, if these groups do not join us, even our traditional supporters might step aside—concluding that we have no chance of winning, or that there is simply no point. My proposal is that we reshape the party’s image accordingly. Frankly, I do not see a path to victory if we continue with the traditional approach.
Some believe that if the UNP and the SJB were to unite, they would win.” “That’s not how it works. Everything has changed now. If we don’t bring in new voters, none of us can move forward. I’m saying we should set aside tradition and adopt a new approach.”