No presidential election in 2014: Govt.

Quashing speculation, the Government yesterday insisted that there would be no early presidential election in 2014 but three provincial council polls would be held this year.

Cabinet spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella speaking to journalists at the weekly Cabinet briefing ruled out any chance of a presidential election and joked that it would come as “good news” to Opposition leader Ranil Wickremesinghe.

“I say with absolute responsibility that there will be no presidential election next year,” he said, adding: “This will come as good news to the United National Party leader as he can remain in his position for a while longer and stave off competition from people within his party.”

However, he confirmed that three provincial council elections would be held in 2013 but declined to name the regions and the Government’s plans. Speculation has been rife over the past few months with even reports of a referendum being held instead of a presidential election doing the rounds.