The SLFP government of Sirimavo Bandaranaike lost its majority in December 1964 when some MPs deserted it over the nationalization of Lakehouse Newspapers.

The economy had been stagnant, and rationing had been imposed in the face of persistent food shortages.

The UNP promised to form a "National Front" government to oppose the SLFP and its Marxist allies.

UNP leader Dudley Senanayake promised cabinet posts both to smaller Sinhalese nationalist parties and the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi.

The UNP did not obtain a majority, but was able to govern as a National Front with the ITAK's support.