With Dhammika Perera turning down the SLPP’s presidential candidacy, the party hierarchy has requested prime minister Dinesh Gunawardena to accept it, according to sources at the PM’s office.
However, Gunawardena has reportedly turned down the offer.
Namal Rajapaksa and his loyalists are now in a dilemma, unable to find a candidate.
Meanwhile, SLPP headquarters sources say the national organizer Rajapaksa is prepared to contest if Perera refuses to do so.
Political sources claim Perera’s reported withdrawal could well be part of his propaganda campaign.
Candidate to be announced tomorrow
Meanwhile, the announcement of the SLPP candidate will take place tomorrow (07) at the party headquarters as scheduled, at 7.00 pm, said a party letter requesting media coverage.
Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa, founder Basil Rajapaksa, national organizer Namal Rajapaksa and general secretary Sagara Kariyawasam will be among the participants.
