BR: SLPP undecided whether to support RW

Former Minister Basil Rajapaksa has said that the ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) would face the next election confidently, whether it is presidential or parliamentary. He, however, admitted that it would be a challenge for the SLPP.

The SLPP founder said so at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) yesterday (05) after returning from the US.

Responding to media queries, Rajapaksa said that though the presidential election was scheduled to be held later this year, if a consensus could be reached among the MPs, Parliament could be dissolved to pave the way for a general election ahead of the presidential poll.

In terms of the Constitution, presidential election would have to be held between Sept 17 and Oct 17 this year.

Asked whether the SLPP would field a candidate of its own or throw its weight behind incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Rajapaksa said whoever the candidate is, he/she would contest with their backing.

Asked whether a Rajapaksa would contest the next presidential poll the ex-lawmaker said that people have to be consulted. Rajapaksa said that a decision on whom to support would be taken within the next few days .(SF)