A coalition of political and civil organizations has launched criticism at Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, alleging weak leadership and internal discord within parliamentary opposition ranks.

The Joint Opposition held a media briefing in Colombo today to voice concerns about the parliamentary opposition's performance under Sajith Premadasa's leadership. Representatives from multiple political and civil organizations claimed the opposition is not meeting public expectations and alleged that even opposition MPs lack confidence in their leader.

Democratic National Alliance leader Praba Ganesan questioned Premadasa's consistency, noting that he previously pledged to distance himself from figures accused of corruption or blamed for the country's economic decline, yet has reportedly engaged with individuals including Namal Rajapaksa and former President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Ganesan also alleged that political figures such as Wimal Weerawansa, Udaya Gammanpila, and Duminda Dissanayake continue to wield significant influence over opposition politics, claiming this has damaged the Opposition Leader's credibility. According to Ganesan, some Tamil-speaking opposition politicians have begun seeking direct engagement with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake due to diminished faith in Premadasa's leadership.

Other speakers reinforced these criticisms from different angles. Vimukthi Jayasuriya of the United Young Entrepreneurs' Organization argued that former leaders cannot credibly position themselves as critics after years in power, particularly when many face legal scrutiny or investigations. Democratic National Organization National Organiser Niruksha Kumara contended that a strong opposition has failed to materialize because opposition members remain preoccupied with their own legal challenges rather than public policy issues. He claimed several opposition figures are under investigation or facing court proceedings.

Civil Intelligence Front Convener Sanjaya Mahawatta stated that the Joint Opposition coalition represents genuine public concerns regarding accountability and democratic values, though he acknowledged that some opposition elements appear motivated by personal rather than public interests.