Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe says the United National Party (UNP) is preparing to hold discussions with political parties on a proposed long-term national policy framework.
The proposed discussions will exclude the National People’s Power (NPP), according to Wickremesinghe.
Speaking at a UNP Working Committee meeting at the party headquarters in Pitakotte, he said the party had prepared a discussion paper on Sri Lanka’s political and economic future.
“This has not been prepared only for the United National Party. We are talking to all parties except Pelawatte,” Wickremesinghe said.
The proposal aims to build broad agreement among political parties around a common national programme.
What Is the Proposed 20-Year Framework?
Wickremesinghe proposed a policy framework that could remain in place for about 20 years.
The economic focus would include maintaining economic stability, attracting investment, creating jobs and improving living standards.
He also raised concerns about the economic pressure faced by Sri Lankans. In particular, he said parts of the middle class were seeing their living standards decline.
The proposed framework therefore seeks to address both economic stability and longer-term improvements in household living standards.
What Electoral Changes Are Being Proposed?
Wickremesinghe also outlined changes to the parliamentary electoral system.
Under his proposal, 125 Members of Parliament would be elected through constituencies.
He also proposed that political parties ensure women make up 25% of their nominated candidates.
Of the remaining 100 parliamentary seats allocated through the list system, he proposed that 25 seats should be held by women.
The proposals also include establishing a separate Constitutional Court.
Wickremesinghe further called for stronger anti-corruption measures and the implementation of recommendations from the IMF-supported Governance Diagnostic Assessment.
Is This the Final Policy?
No.
Wickremesinghe said the document is not a final policy statement.
He said it can be changed after discussions with political parties and other groups.
The proposals are based on principles set out in the UNP’s 1975 policy declaration, according to Wickremesinghe.
He also said he intends to eventually entrust the initiative to the younger generation.
For now, the next step is political discussion. The UNP is seeking views from other political parties on a framework that would cover economic policy, electoral reform, constitutional changes and governance over a longer period.
The key question is therefore not whether the document is already a final national policy. It is whether the proposed discussions can produce a wider agreement around the policies outlined in the discussion paper.
Last modified: September 20, 2026
