The UPFA has agreed to nominate former president Mahinda Rajapaksa to contest the election on its ticket.
UPFA General Secretary Susil Premajayantha, SLFP General Secretary Anura Priyadarshana Yapa and Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala de Silva informed Mr. Rajapaksa about President Sirisena’s decision earlier today, the Daily Mirror reported.
Mr Rajapaksa is reported to be vying to be selected as the party’s prime ministerial candidate, but faces opposition from the members of the SLFP who are with the current government.
The former president said he will make an announcement regarding his future political plans on Wednesday.