Major clash breaks out between opposing UNP factions

by Dhaneshi Yatawara and Justin Kodikara, Matara Sp. Cor.

Clashes broke out yesterday between UNP supporters opposing and supporting the leadership of the party in Matara and Devundara, injuring at least seven people. According to Police, the father of UNP Provincial Councillor, Maithree Gunaratne was arrested over a shooting incident during the clash.

A tense situation was reported near the Matara Town Hall around 11.30 am yesterday, Police Spokesman, SSP Buddika Siriwardena said.

The clash broke out between the two groups of UNP supporters - one party marching from Devundara who were protesting against Opposition Leader, Ranil Wickremesinghe and the other were those supporting him.

The opposing rally led by UNP Provincial Councillors Maithree Gunaratne and Shiral Lakthilaka, was demanding Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe to step down from party leadership. The rally supporting Wickremesinghe was led by parliamentarian Mangala Samaraweera.

UNP Southern Provincial Council member, Krishantha Pushpakumara sustained gunshot injuries in the clash. The Councillor was shot in the leg and was later admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the Karapitiya Hospital. UNP Provincial Councillor, Maithree Gunaratne's son and driver sustained injuries when the rally was attacked by the opposing party at a point close to the Devinuvara Devale, soon after the rally started.

In the second clash in Matara town, an employee of the Matara Municipal Council, who was returning to office after having tea at a nearby boutique, sustained gunshot injuries. Municipal workers who were nearby rushed him to the Matara Hospital.

Meanwhile, the Matara Magistrate's Courts made an order last afternoon that the protest march should be halted.