SLFP to take disciplinary action against errant party members

In a decision likely to deepen divisions within the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), its leaders yesterday rejected a request for its members to be part of the Joint Opposition and will take disciplinary action against those acting against the party leadership. 

The SLFP Central Committee also decided it would launch inquiries against nine local government bodies that had failed to explain their actions to the party leadership.

 As many as 51 Members of Parliament had requested to function as a separate Opposition within the House this week, but the demand was rejected by Speaker Karu Jayasuriya. 

The members of the SLFP still largely loyal to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa are likely to face tough challenges ahead as they decide whether they remain within the party. 

The move is also seen as an effort by President Maithripala Sirisena to tighten his hold on the party ahead of Local Government elections and measures to form a new political party by the Rajapaksas.