The UNP had commenced a disciplinary inquiry against Deputy Minister of Social Empowerment, Welfare and Kandyan Heritage, Ranjan Ramanayake for publicly criticising UNP leader and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe earlier this week, Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga said on April 24.
“Ramanayake’s actions are deplorable. He has criticised the Prime Minister and stated that Wickremesinghe has to go. Only the Working Committee can criticise the party leader. We have already commenced a disciplinary inquiry against Ramanayake,” Amaratunga said.
The Minister added that there was a conspiracy to dislodge party seniors. “Ranjan’s speech should be viewed against that backdrop. They have been trying to get rid of me for sometime. They won’t succeed in their endeavour. Younger members of the party must learn to be patient.”
Deputy Minister Ramanayake said he was not afraid of facing a disciplinary inquiry. “I have nothing to fear and I will face any inquiry. I have not disrespected the party leader. I have said what’s on peoples’ minds.”
Addressing a press briefing on Monday, Ramanayake said that popular UNPers like Sajith Premadasa and Navin Dissanayake should be given more responsibilities, in the party. He said Wickremesinghe ‘had got several chances to bat for the party. “In 2002, he scored a century. He batted again in 2004 but got out. In 2010 and 2015 we had to import players such as Sarath Fonseka and Maithripala Sirisena. I think now it is time for Sajith and Navin to be given a chance to bat.
Courtesy – island.lk
