Swan continues to haunt the elephant camp?

A fresh hurdle emerged yesterday in the adoption of the swan symbol by the newly-formed ‘Samagi Jana Balawegaya’ to contest the next general elections, Daily Mirror learns.

UNP General Secretary MP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, MPs Ranjith Madduma Bandara and Ravi Karunanayake called on the Election Commission to explore the possibility of using the swan symbol which presently belongs to the National Democratic Front (NDF).

The Parliamentary Elections Act provides for the change of symbols within seven days upon declaration of the general elections. However, it transpired at yesterday’s meeting that the NDF could not take back the swan symbol for five years, if it was dropped this time enabling the 'Samagi Janabalawegaya’ to use it.

Asked about it, Mr. Kariyawasam told Daily Mirror that a fresh issue erupted in using the swan symbol, and therefore the United National Party (UNP) as the main party of the new alliance should discuss it further.

The UNP is divided into two factions these days over the symbol. The faction loyal to Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has already formed the new alliance. Mr. Premadasa is its leader and MP Madduma Bandara is its General Secretary. (Kelum Bandara)