Former minister Nimal Siripala de Silva told attendees he was approached to be the common opposition candidate before the 2015 presidential election, and that the offer came prior to Maithripala Sirisena receiving the same invitation.
Offered the 2015 common opposition candidacy before Maithripala Sirisena
Speaking at the Sri Lanka Freedom Party’s 75th anniversary event, de Silva said party members had invited him to accept the common opposition ticket for the 2015 presidential contest.
He said that invitation arrived before Sirisena decided to leave the SLFP and accept the candidacy.
“You know that at the 2015 election, Maithripala Sirisena left the party and became the common candidate. I was invited before him. But I loved the party more than the presidency. That is why I am still in this party today,” de Silva said. He added the decision to stay was a matter of loyalty, not ambition — or so he put it, with a wink toward party colleagues.
Commitment to the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and future leadership
De Silva said his loyalty to the SLFP shaped his choice. He urged the party to prepare a clear, orderly transition so younger members can take charge without the infighting that has harmed past handovers.
“I have always said that young people should take over this party. But it should not be a group fighting among themselves. A united group of young people should take over the party,” he said, calling for unity rather than rival factions.
He also told the gathering he would be willing to step down from any current posts if that would help a smooth leadership change. (Lakbima News)
