Will field a candidate who ensures national security

By Lahiru Pothmulla   

Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday said a leader who can create a disciplined country, who can ensure the national security and provide security to all Sri Lankans the same would be fielded as the presidential candidate of the opposition.   

Addressing a meeting represented by former members of parliament and provincial councils, Mr. Rajapaksa said he has been bestowed with the power to name the presidential candidate of the opposition led by the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).   He said it was the people who are being suppressed due to the action taken by the government to fulfil its narrow political gains. “The government intentionally trying to create a rift among ethnic and religious communities,” he said.   He said it was dubious that the government was focusing on a general election when the presidential election is just around the corner. “Nevertheless, the SLPP has the capacity to win any election by defeating any ulterior motives of the government,” Mr. Rajapaksa said.