IntelScoops

Sajith Premadasa’s name is familiar to most Sri Lankans. He’s the son of a former president and has spent years trying to become one himself. But despite his experience, popularity, and ambition, Sajith has struggled to take power.

This is the story of how he tried, why he hasn’t made it yet, and what might happen next.

A Political Beginning

Sajith was born into politics. His father, Ranasinghe Premadasa, was president until he was killed in 1993. Sajith joined the United National Party (UNP) and quickly became known for his work in housing and helping the poor.

Many thought he would naturally become the leader of the UNP. But Ranil Wickremesinghe, who led the party for decades, never gave him that chance.

Starting Something New

By 2020, Sajith had enough. Tired of waiting, he left the UNP and formed a new party — the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB).

At first, it looked like a smart move. The country was in crisis, people were angry at the old leaders, and Sajith had a fresh team. He was seen as one of the main hopes for change.

The 2024 Elections: Hope and Disappointment

Sajith ran for president in 2024. Many believed he could win. But something unexpected happened.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the National People’s Power (NPP) became hugely popular, especially among young voters. They promised big change, and people believed in them.

Sajith lost the presidential election.

Then came the parliamentary elections. The SJB didn’t do well. The NPP won a huge majority. The SJB came a distant second.

Trouble Inside His Own Party

Since then, things have gotten harder for Sajith.

People inside the SJB are unhappy. Some say he doesn’t listen. Others think a small group of advisors have too much control. There’s no clear message or strong direction.

For a party that once promised change, things now seem confused and divided.

Still Standing

Even after the loss, Sajith is still in politics. He’s now the Leader of the Opposition, a job that gives him a voice — but not real power.

He has been warning about possible economic problems in the future and criticising the NPP for not keeping promises. He has also said that he will never accept the presidency unless the people elect him directly.

Will He Work With the UNP Again?

There are rumours that Sajith may join forces again with the UNP. Some say Ranil Wickremesinghe is open to supporting Sajith as a leader in a new alliance.

But Sajith has denied these rumours. Still, some quiet cooperation between the parties is already happening at local levels.

What’s Next?

Sajith has three choices:

Fix the SJB — bring the party together, listen more, and give people hope again. Form new alliances — work with other parties to challenge the NPP in the next elections. Do nothing — and risk slowly becoming less and less important in politics.

Final Thoughts

Sajith Premadasa has the name, the experience, and the passion. But to become Sri Lanka’s leader, he needs more than that. He must unite his party, offer real solutions, and win back the trust of the people.

Time is running out — and the next step he takes could decide everything.