The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) plans to hold its rally next Saturday in Anuradhapura, with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa set to preside over the event, despite the recent arrest and remand of National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa.

SLPP spokesperson Sanjeewa Edirimanna confirmed that the Municipal Housing Scheme playground has been allocated for the meeting. The party had initially requested larger venues, such as the Salgadu or Harischandra playgrounds, to accommodate a bigger crowd. Edirimanna emphasized that the party is determined to proceed with the rally despite what he described as government efforts to undermine it.

Namal Rajapaksa was taken into custody on Friday by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption. He was remanded until September 18 following accusations of accepting Rs 100 million in bribes linked to a procurement deal for aircraft involving SriLankan Airlines.

The SLPP’s decision to move forward with the rally underscores the party’s intent to maintain momentum amid ongoing political and legal challenges. The event is expected to draw significant attention given the prominence of its leadership and the prevailing political climate in the country.