COLOMBO (News 1st) – State Minister Wasantha Aluvihare visited the Chief Prelate of the Malwathu chapter the Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Thero and the Chief Prelate of the Asgiri chapter, Most Venerable Warakagoda Gnanarathana Thero yesterday (February 13).

After the visit, the state minister shared his thoughts regarding the upcoming budget with media. Wasantha Aluvihare said that the budget debate will commence on March 5th. He added that the budget will be favourable to the general public.

A journalist inquired if the UNP is ready for a presidential election.”The UNP is a strong party. We do not fear an election, because now we are firm at the grass root level. We would prefer an election soon. We will take part in any sort of election.” Wasantha Aluvihare responded. He noted that he would prefer a presidential election over other elections.

He also shared his ideas on the proposal for a national government. He noted that for a national government to be successful it is essential to have the majority from the ruling party. Without a strong government, it is hard to move forward. According to him, the national government could strengthen parliament. He added that if the SLFP is to join them to form a national government they will be able to govern for one and half more years.

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