Sajith Premadasa extends open invitation to everyone distanced from the UNP

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Deputy Leader of the United National Party, Minister Sajith Premadasa requested all those who distanced themselves from the UNP to join with him, to build the country. Issuing a media release the Minister stated that disparities in ideologies are matters that can be discussed and a consensus can be reached rather than using it as a reason to distance themselves from the party. Therefore the Minister urges all provincial councillors, local government authorities, and all party representatives to join hands with him in the journey to make the people and the party victorious. Minister Sajith Premadasa further states that he will extend an invitation to the former General Secretary of the UNP Tissa Atanayaka to join him in reclaiming the glory of the party. Attending the Parliamentary Group meeting held to decide on the Presidential candidate representing the United National Front, Minister Sajith Premadasa answered several questions raised by the journalists. Journalist: It is said everything is being prepared. When will you announce your decision? Minister Sajith Premadasa noted that he requested the Prime Minister to hold discussions with the Central Working Committee and the Parliamentary group of the UNF in order to come to a final decision on the presidential candidate. The Minister added that they would come to a final decision on Thursday. Journalist: Will a secret ballot be conducted? Minister Sajith Premadasa responded that it was agreed that a final consensus will be reached through discussions and if that is to fail, they might resort to another democratic measure. Journalist: There is a rumour circulating on social media that 4 candidates have expressed their willingness to come forward as the presidential candidate representing the UNP Minister responded that he was unaware of this and he was confident that he would not step back from his decision. Journalist: Do you have a message that you want to give to your friends from the village? Minister Sajith Premadasa responded that every citizen in the country was a member of his family.