Sri Lanka’s United People’s Freedom Alliance yet to unite

July 04, 2015 (LBO) – Sri Lanka’s United People’s Freedom Alliance led by President Maithripala Sirisena decided to allow ex-President Rajapaksa to contest under UPFA.

Though Rajapaksa fraction demanded the position of Prime Ministerial candidature or UPFA group leadership at the recent discussions, President Sirisena has refused them.

Rajapaksa allies on Friday evening holding a press conference agreed to accept the opportunity despite the fact that certain parties are still unsatisfied with the outcome.

“It’s not sufficient. We asked for the leadership of UPFA, not just the nomination,” Vasudeva Nanayakkara told LBO, signaling a possibility of further discussions.

There were also no assurances for other people who backed former President that will be given nominations under UPFA ticket.

Contradictory to Vasudeva’s statement, Dinesh Gunawardena, a strong supporter of pro-Rajapakse campaign told LBO that they have given the priority to unite the party.

“We are working with the UPFA towards wining the election.” Gunawardena said.

However certain politicians including Minister Rajitha Senaratna and M K D S Gunawardena have already raised concerns over the latest decision to give nominations to the ex-President.

Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga who vehemently opposed her successor entering the Parliament through SLFP led UPFA, is yet to accept Rajapaksa’s come back bid.

Pro and anti Rajapaksa fractions inside the United People’s Freedom Alliance seems to obliterate the so called unity of the party creating a plus for the rival United National Party at the upcoming elections.

President Sirisena, former President Kumaratunga and other parties rallied together with UNP to defeat Mahinda Rajapaksa regime at the last Presidential election.