By: Muhammad Jawad Courtesy BNN Breaking

In a recent media briefing at the Presidential Media Center, Wajira Abeywardena, Chairman of the United National Party (UNP) and Member of Parliament in Sri Lanka, shed light on the crucial role of the Regulation of Election Expenditure Act No 3 of 2023. Passed in early 2023, the Act aims to keep a check on the funding sources of Sri Lanka’s 75 registered political parties. Abeywardena highlighted that the political parties’ division has been a source of numerous challenges since the country’s independence. Furthermore, he drew attention to Sri Lanka’s high number of political parties, which is unusual compared to other Asian countries.

Regulation of Election Expenditure Act

In an attempt to bring transparency and accountability within the political landscape, the Regulation of Election Expenditure Act was passed last year. The Act was designed to monitor and scrutinize the funding sources of all registered political parties. This was a significant move considering Sri Lanka’s unusually high number of political parties.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s Leadership

Abeywardena praised President Ranil Wickremesinghe for his leadership, particularly for his effective diplomacy during foreign trips. The President has managed to gain support from various world leaders, thus pushing Sri Lanka towards development. His leadership has attracted international attention and is seen as a beacon of progress in the country.

The Role of UNP’s Manifesto

Interestingly, Abeywardena suggested that the policies currently being implemented for the country’s benefit are based on the UNP’s manifesto. Despite its initial rejection in the 2020 elections, the manifesto seems to be influencing the ongoing governance model. Abeywardena encouraged politicians to familiarize themselves with its contents to understand the current governance scheme. Thus, the UNP’s manifesto, even after its initial rejection, continues to shape Sri Lanka’s political landscape.