Buddhika Refuses To Withdraw His Name

By Mandana Ismail Abeywickrema

UNP Matara District parliamentarian Buddhika Pathirana has refused to withdraw his name from the charge made against UNP Leader Ranil Wickremasinghe by UNP Southern Provincial Councillor and Attorney Maithri Gunaratne of political victimization over the refusal of sexual overtures by the party leader.

Gunaratne had handed over to the party secretary a complaint with 20 charges against Wickremasinghe’s conduct and his actions in violation of the party Constitution that have affected the party’s progress.

One of the charges state that the party leader’s sexual preferences have affected the party’s political process and that some members, namely Pathirana, have been victimized after refusing Wickremasinghe’s overtures.

UNP Galle District parliamentarian and spokesperson Gayantha Karunathileka had on Tuesday (30) spoken to Pathirana asking him to withdraw his name from the complaint handed by Gunaratne.

Karunathileka had said that issues between the party leadership and Pathirnana could be amicably resolved once his name is withdrawn from the complaint. He had added that the complaint has caused much controversy.

Pathirana had however rejected the request saying he was firm in his stances and would not withdraw his name.

When contacted by The Sunday Leader, Pathirana confirmed that Karunathileka had spoken to him about the complaint and had asked him to consider withdrawing his name.

Pathirana added that he had declined the request saying he would not withdraw his name.

Pathirana is currently facing a disciplinary inquiry and is not permitted to attend any meetings of the party including the parliamentary group meeting.