UPFA former LG heads to form new political group

Friday, 15 January 2016 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A group of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) former Local Governments’ representatives yesterday revealed their aim to form a separate political party to contest upcoming Local Government polls, perhaps under former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Speaking at a media briefing the Federation of Local Government Institutions’ Representatives said it would contest the next local Government election under the blessing and ‘maybe the leadership’ of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Moratuwa Mayor Samanlal Fernando said the grassroots level voters who placed their trust in the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) at the last two elections were waiting for another opportunity to support their return to the power.

“We were requested by the voters to form a new political party which can defeat the unfair administration of the United National Party (UNP) led Government. This time supporters might not be deceived as when several SLFP MPs joined the Government,” Fernando said.

He added the fundamental steps of forming a new political party have concluded, but it will launch after the election date is announced.

“We lost last two elections due to the conspiracy moves of the UNP. This time we will not allow the UNP to lead us towards defeat,” Fernando charged.

When reporters asked if the federation has discussed the preparation of a new party with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Fernando said Rajapaksa was already on their side because he still has the desire to defeat the UNP.

Former Gampaha Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Ranjith Gunawardana said they urge the Government to hold the Local Government election as soon as possible.

“The Government has no right to delay the election. We believe UNP wanted to postpone the polls because they already know they will not win this time,” Gunawardana claimed.

However the Government announced the Local Government election will be delayed due to the ongoing process of delimitation. Cabinet Spokesman Minister Rajitha Senaratne said polls will likely be held in June.

According to the Federation out of 334 Local Government bodies 188 are based on UPFA votes. Former Walallawita Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Udeni Athukorala claimed 99% representatives out of those 188 bodies were agreed to form a new political force.

“Representatives including former Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Pradeshiya Sabha Chairmen and Vice Chairmen will be gathered around us soon,” he presumed.

Former Maharagama Mayor Kanthi Kodikara, former Dambulla Mayor Jaliya Opatha, former Ukuwela Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Samantha Dharmasena, former Aththanagalla Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Priyantha Pushpakumara and members of several Urban Councils were presented at the briefing. (CG)