Muslim parties that jointly contested the election with Sajith Premadasa's Samagi Jana Balawegaya have began to express their disappointment over SJB's national list issue.
Sajith's SJB has won 54 seats including 7 national list places with the assistance of minority parties. However, an unofficial list circulating in social media since this morning suggests only Imthiyaz Bakeer Markar, a less active, ex-politician from the southern part of Sri Lanka is included, whilst rival Podujana Peramuna has already named three prominent Muslim personalities including one from Imthiyaz's native Beruwala.
Speaking to Sri Lanka Muslim congress and Akila Ilangai Makkal congress, the two main Muslim parties that supported SJB, we understand that they are disappointed over new rules set out by SJB leadership post - election, requiring to have won 6 seats each to have a national list seat. This was never told to us prior to the election, the parties claim.
Leader of the National Unity Alliance, Azath Salley who was explicitly campaigning for SJB wasn't available to comment but his close associates sound hopeful. Sajith wouldn't repeat what Ranil did to Azath Salley three times in the past, said a party member. That was a promise given to us prior to the election and we hope he will uphold his promise like a gentleman, he added.
We also understand that ACMC is in favour of including Azath Salley. However, the list in circulation (although not verified) doesn't include his name but politicians such as Harin Fernando (former sports minister) , Eran wickremaratne (former deputy minister of state enterprise development), Ranjith madduma bandara (former minister of law and order) who could have won through contesting.
Negative opinions is in the increase on social media but the SJB leadership is still silent.
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