Fonseka says ready to take over Presidency

Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka gestures during the media briefing yesterday – Pic by Lasantha Kumara

• SJB Chairman says will accept President post if he gets backing of majority in Parliament
• Opines decision is a personal one not a party decision
• Fonseka seconded SJB nomination of Premadasa for Presidency 

MP and former unsuccessful candidate Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka yesterday said that he is ready to accept the Presidency if the majority members in Parliament elect him to the post.

His announcement comes three days after he as the Chairman of Samagi Jana Balawegaya seconded the nomination of Leader Sajith Premadasa for the post of President.

“I have been asked to contest for the Presidency by some sections of MPs including a group from SLPP. Therefore, I will accept the post if I am elected,” Fonseka told the media.

Asked whether he had informed his decision to the SJB leader, Fonseka said he had not. “I don’t have to tell the leader about my personal discussions,” Fonseka added.

Former Army Commander unsuccessfully contested the 2010 January Presidential election which was won by Mahinda Rajapaksa.