Candidate will be decided before 26th : Lakshman Kiriella

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Minister Lakshman Kiriella shared his thoughts on the UNP presidential candidate today (September 24). Lakshman Kiriella responding to questions from journalists noted that the working committee of the party will decide on a candidate following the discussions tomorrow and the day after (September 25 & 26). Minister also added that he would like a candidate who could have the support of everyone including the minority and ultimately win. Meanwhile, General Secretary of the UNP Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam convened media conference for a briefing. Journalist: As the General Secretary of the UNP, who will it be? Sajith or Ranil? Minister responded that this was not something he could decide alone, and it was the decision of the working committee. He added that there are 48 MPs in the working committee and 20 others from organizations representing provincial and Pradeshiya Sabhas which has to be consulted before a final decision. He went on to note that they would all decide together and strive to win. Minister expressed that at the last presidential election in 2015 they announced their candidate after the dates for the election was set, and they would do the same in this election as well. He added that he believes in a united decision and an endeavour for that cause for which he is willing to sacrifice anything. He further added that if they do not come to a common ground, and keep the party together it would lead them to anarchy like before.