The National People's Power (NPP) has invited Opposition Leader MP Sajith Premadasa for a comprehensive public debate, responding to calls from members of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) for open political discussions.
NPP's Proposal and Participants
NPP representative Sunil Handunnetti, speaking at a press conference, confirmed that the party's leader, MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake, is eager to engage in this public dialogue. Alongside Dissanayake, members of the NPP's economic council are prepared to participate. Dr. Ranjith Bandara, an economist with a PhD in Economic Development from the University of Colombo, and Professor R. A. Seetha Priyangani, who holds a PhD in Economic Policy from the Australian National University with expertise in sustainable development and policy analysis, will join the debate.
SJB's Response and Participants
Handunnetti noted that members of the SJB, including Nalin Bandara and Dr. Harsha de Silva, have also shown interest in such discussions. The SJB's economic council includes Dr. Harsha de Silva, who holds a PhD in Economics from the University of Cambridge; Eran Wickramaratne, a former State Minister of Finance with a Master's degree in Development Economics from the University of Oxford; and Kabeer Hashim, an expert in international finance with an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Call for Transparent Dialogue
Handunnetti emphasized the importance of public debates in ensuring transparency and enhancing the quality of national politics. The NPP has expressed particular interest in a direct discussion between the leaders and economic councils of both parties, especially as the Presidential Election approaches.
The NPP has urged the SJB to formalize the debate invitation through a written request. Handunnetti proposed that such a debate would allow Presidential candidates and their advisors to present their policies and visions directly to the public, fostering informed decision-making among voters.
Next Steps and Coordination
The NPP assured its willingness to coordinate a suitable time and platform for the debate. Handunnetti hinted at exploring alternative arrangements if MP Premadasa hesitates to participate, reiterating the party’s readiness to proceed with meaningful and transparent political dialogue.
Disclaimer
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