The Election Commission gazetted Ravi Karunanayake’s name on November 18 as a National List MP for the New Democratic Front (NDF), igniting protests and inte al disputes among allied parties.

Vajira Abeywardena, representing the United National Party, criticized the appointment during a press conference, stating it was made without proper consultation. Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe also condemned the move as unilateral, calling for discussions to address the issue. Meanwhile, Azad Sali, a member of the NDF alliance, demanded action to reverse the decision, suggesting Karunanayake's house be raided.

The controversy escalated further with protests held outside Karunanayake’s Colombo residence. To prevent any disturbances, heavy police security has been deployed in the area.

The second NDF National List seat is reportedly being considered for Kanchana Wijesekera, representing the United Freedom Front. However, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) is also facing challenges, struggling to nominate representatives for its five National List seats due to competing demands from allied factions.

The situation underscores growing tensions and discontent over the nomination process within the NDF and its broader coalition.