FORMAL INITIATIVE SHOULD COME FROM PRESIDENT

In an obvious reference to the move for a new Government, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa told fellow MPS that he would respond to it only if there was a formal initiative by President Maithripala Sirisena in this regard, it is learnt.

Amidst reports about his meeting with the President at the residence of MP S. B. Dissanayake, he called for a meeting with the MPS associated with Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) on Tuesday evening.

The meeting took place at the residence of SLPP Chairman Prof. G.L. Peiris which was followed by a dinner.

Mr Rajapaksa is reported to have said that there was nothing his side could do in this respect as the formal invitation should be extended by the President only.

He said there was no reason to be excited about it.

He also requested the MPS not to make comments on this matter

If and when there is an invitation, a decision can be made. Everyone will be consulted before a decision is arrived at. There is nothing for us to make decisions now

privately. “If and when there is an invitation, a decision can be made. Everyone will be consulted before a decision is arrived at. There is nothing for us to make decisions now,” he has said.

The SLPP decided to include other parties of the Joint Opposition for broader discussion, it is learnt.