The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has proposed to reduce military expenditure in its election manifesto, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Thursday (05).

He urged SJB leader, Sajith Premadasa to explain how defence expenditure will be reduced given that the overwhelming majority of the defence budget goes for salaries.

Wickremesinghe also said a true leader is someone who can work effectively with any team.

Although Premadasa talks a lot about teamwork, he doesn’t want to take responsibility as a leader, the President said.Wickremesinghe said he successfully steered the country’s economy through a challenging period, working alongside a dedicated team focused on national recovery.

He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the country’s development program with the team chosen by the people at the next general election.

President Wickremesinghe addressed questions regarding his political team, clarifying that his candidacy for the presidential election is not about selecting a group, but rather demonstrating the strength and responsibility required for leadership. He emphasized that a capable leader does not necessarily need a team to talk about the responsibilities of the presidency.