
The United National Party (UNP) is preparing to usher in a new generation of leadership that embraces “smart politics,” party leader and former President Ranil Wickremesinghe said.
Speaking at the launch of the SMART UNP digital drive at party headquarters Sirikotha, Wickremesinghe stressed that both the party and the country should gradually be handed over to the Zen Beta generation in the years ahead. He noted that senior leaders must begin planning for the youth born after the end of Sri Lanka’s civil war to take on future political responsibilities.
Highlighting the need for technological advancement, he said the UNP must move towards modern political strategies and adopt emerging technologies, including virtual reality, to stay relevant in a rapidly changing global landscape. He also pointed out that Sri Lanka must navigate a complex international environment shaped by major powers such as the United States, China and a rising India.
As part of its digital transformation, the UNP plans to introduce new roles such as digital administrators and digital organisers. The party headquarters will also be upgraded with Starlink-powered internet connectivity and digital membership cards as part of the SMART UNP initiative.





