The telephone party will be disconnected from politics within weeks of May Day, said UNP leader for Colombo Ravi Karunanayake.

Harin Fernando and Manusha Nanayakkara who gave a voice for the SJB are today with the UNP, said Karunanayake.

Addressing the party’s May Day rally near Maligawatta police station, he said incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe will contest the 2024 presidential polls in 125 days’ time as the nonpartisan candidate.

Various parties and groups will work together for his victory, he noted.

"Our difference from others due to our unity should be an example to others. The president has been able to uplift not just the country, but the party as well after accepting the country amid various challenges.

With a new vision, he has proven to the world how to revive a collapsed country, said Karunanayake.

Explaining the benefits given, the former finance minister elaborated on the ‘Urumaya’ freehold deed programme, ‘Aswesuma’ social welfare programme for the poor, a Rs. 10,000 salary increase for public sector employees and raising the daily wage of estate workers to Rs. 1,700.

He also said that the president is implementing a programme for a smart state sector.