Ex President Ranil Wickremesinghe to step away from politics after five-decade career
By: Isuru Parakrama
September 24, Colombo (LNW): The United National Party (UNP) has announced that former President Ranil Wickremesinghe will not be contesting in the upcoming General Election, marking the end of his 50-year political career.
Deputy Leader of the UNP, Ruwan Wijewardena, confirmed that Wickremesinghe has no intention of seeking re-entry into Parliament through the National List, thus signalling his formal retirement from active politics.
Wickremesinghe, who has played a significant role in Sri Lankan politics for over five decades, has held various high-ranking positions throughout his career.
He served as Prime Minister multiple times before becoming President, navigating the nation through challenging economic and political landscapes.
His decision to step away from public office comes at a time when the UNP is reshaping its leadership and preparing for the upcoming electoral battles.
Wijewardena’s statement underscores that Wickremesinghe is ready to conclude his political journey, having contributed significantly to the country’s governance and policy-making.
For decades, he was a central figure in steering the UNP’s ideology and political direction, leaving behind a complex legacy marked by both achievements and controversies.
