New Prez invites Sajith, et al to work together to overcome challenges

By Saman Indrajith

Newly-elected President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday invited all parties in Parliament to work together on a new strategy to fulfil the aspirations of the people.

Addressing the House, soon after being elected President, Wickremesinghe urged the MPs to work together. “The people are not asking for old politics. I request Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and other Opposition parties, including former Presidents Mahinda Rajapaksa and Maithripala Sirisena, to work together,” Wickremesinghe said.

“We have been divided for the last 48 hours. That period is now over. We have to work together, now,” he added.

The new President said that he intended to take oath as President within the Parliament premises outside the chamber.

“I have 45 years experience in this Parliament. I am thankful for this honour bestowed on me by this Parliament. There is no need of further explaining the prevailing situation in the country, today. The youth are demanding a system change.

There are many global problems, too, having their effects on this nation. We must think that from here onward there is only one way ahead to bring about the changes asked by people. They ask to put an end to divisive politics. They demand us to work together. Therefore, I ask other two candidates to work together,” Wickremesinghe said.