Reshuffles, Resignations and calls for Reforms

COLOMBO (News 1^st) - Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam announced earlier today (April 8th) that a decision was reached to undertake a cabinet reshuffle within the week. The Minister said that the decision was made following a meeting between President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Minister Kariyawasam further stated that 16 SLFP Ministers who voted in support of the No Confidence Motion, should resign from the government. Reports also emerged today that UNP Chairman Min. Malik Samarawickrema tendered his resignation from the position of Party Chairman. The letter according to reports is yet to be accepted. UNP Parliamentarian Bandula Lal Bandarigoda addressing a public rally expressed his views on the  aftermath of the No Confidence Motion (NCM) and UNP party reforms. He said that a decision was taken during the NCM to protect the party and it's leadership. However according to the UNP back-bencher this does not mean that they as members of the party approve the bond scam.   MP Bandarigoda said the party wants to see new leaders who are able to take UNP to its victory. He stated that the party faithful have called on the party to make a real change that can be felt and not resort to facades like committees or councils. Further, it was stated that if they do not see the change take place, he and others are prepared to hand in their letters of resignation.