Talks underway for a new political alliance

Several parties in the opposition have decided to form a new political alliance.

Kumar Welgama, Rajitha Senaratne, Patali Champika Ranawaka and SLPP breakaway faction are presently holding talks on a possible union among them, ‘Deshaya’ reports.

Their plan is to leave the main opposition and contest elections together, said a spokesman for parties at the talks.

Meanwhile, the government too, is holding discussions on campaigning for future elections.

The president has chaired a preliminary meeting with leaders of government affiliate parties and ministers.

Prime minister Dinesh Gunawardena, MP Vajira Abeywardena and senior presidential advisor Sagala Ratnayake attended the talks.

The president urged all to have proper coordination with a single-most objective.

SLPP general secretary Sagala Kariyawasam said a steering committee should be appointed after talks with each affiliate party, a proposal also endorsed by minister Susil Premajayantha.