Prasanna Ranatunga out?

23 February 2015 03:04 am

A political move is underway to strip Western Provincial Council Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunga of his post after his participation at the political rally conducted by a few parties to press former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to come back as the Prime Ministerial candidate at the next Parliamentary elections, the Daily Mirror learns.

It is learnt that attempts are being made to promote present Health Minister of the Provincial Council Ranjith Somawansa as the next Chief Minister.

According to political sources, a powerful minister of this government is behind this move.

However, a sizeable number of ruling party members have pledged their support to Mr. Ranatunga. Yet, plans are worked out to form a new administration at least with the support of the Opposition and a section of the ruling United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA).

Asked about it, Mr. Ranatunga said though he was unaware of such attempts, he was ready for any eventuality.

“I am ready for anything. But, I will remain with people,” he said.

He attended the rally in Nugegoda though his Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) had decided not to be part of it. A few other SLFP stalwarts also attended it.

Former Ministers Kumara Welgama and C.B. Ratnayake are among them.

After the January 8 Presidential Election, the new Chief Ministers were appointed at the North Central and Uva Provincial Councils.  

Besides, the Governors of all the nine Provincial Councils were replaced.(Kelum Bandara)