• Vast majority of former MPs have requested that Wijesekera enter Parliament

By Yohan Perera   

Former Minister and New Democratic Front (NDF) Matara District candidate Kanchana Wijesekera is to enter Parliament through the National list while the UNP is to deal with Ravi Karunanayake who is alleged to have engaged in an unethical move to enter the House through the National list.   

A majority of NDF candidates who represent the SLPP, CWC and others including Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Arundika Fernando, Jeewan Thondaman and former MP Rajitha Senaratne told media after a meeting which was held at the NDF office on Flower Road that a vast majority of former MPs have requested that Wijesekera should enter Parliament.   

MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena said focus of the SLPP block in NDF was that Wijesekera be appointed to Parliament through the national list. “We made a written request to this effect,” he said.   

“We wanted Wijesekera as there is a dire need for a young vibrant and knowledgeable person to take on the strong NPP government,” he said.   

MP elect Jeewan Thondaman also said that he too would back Wijesekera as the priority should be the nation rather than a party.   

However, it was reported that the SLFP group in the NDF has proposed Nimal Lansa for the National list slot while Bandula Gunawardane has proposed that experienced persons should be nominated from the National list.   

Dr. Senaratne said the final decision on NDF’s second National slot will be made today. He said Karunanayake will not be allowed to enter Parliament as he has not got the approval of the party.   

UNP working committee is expected to deal with Karunanayake later.