UNP Deputy Leader Sajithn Premadasa has refused to accept any pre-condition in order to obtain the party's presidential candidacy, Asian Mirror reliably learns.

It was reported last night that Premadasa would be given candidacy on the promise of retaining Wickremesinghe as the Prime Minister and the party leader. Another promise was to explicitly support the 20th Amendment to the Constitution which involved the abolition of the Executive Presidency.

However, it is learnt that Premadasa has told his supporters this morning that he is not ready to accept any pre-conditions for the presidential candidacy.

Informed political sources said this might take the UNP's presidential candidacy issue back to square one. It is learnt that another round of discussion between Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and Minister Premadasa will take place this morning to discuss the matter.

This fresh development comes a day before the UNP's crucial Working Committee meeting where the presidential candidate will be selected.

Await more details