Gota to be the next presidential candidate - MP Shehan Semasinghe

Colombo (News1st) - A media briefing was convened today by a group of opposition MPs, supporting the Podu Jana Peramuna. MP Niroshan Perera alleged that MPs Kabir Hashim and Sagala Ratnayaka had struck a deal with Gotabhaya Rajapaksa. UPFA MP Shehan Semasinghe stated that leaders and MPs representing the government, are holding discussions with Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as well as the joint opposition led by the Podu Jana Peramuna. He further stated that several more MPs and political parties have requested to hold discussions with them following the announcement of their presidential candidate on the 11th. A question was directed from the audience regarding the allegations of their mentioned discussions being based on how the mistakes of the previous government are swept under the carpet by the current government while the mistakes of the present government are being concealed by its predecessor. "We have no reason to form any agreement or to engage in transactions in secrecy as we are confident that we will win", said the minister in response. MP D.V.Chanaka and MP Shehan Semasinghe confirmed that Gotabhaya Rajapaksa will be their presidential candidate during this media briefing. Another question was brought up regarding the possibility of Gotabhaya Rajapaksa requesting the court proceedings against him to be halted as part of their discussions. He stated that their discussions were not based on any court proceedings. He continued that the present government shelters many corrupt individuals and there are some who openly commit wrongdoings as well. He further added that they intend to launch independent investigations and ensure that the law will be enforced against such individuals.