Several SLFP stalwarts are expected to attend the inaugural rally of the SLPP in Anuradhapura today.

The inaugural rally of the SLPP campaign will take place at the Salgado Stadium under the patronage of Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and SLPP Presidential candidate Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.

In an unanticipated move last night, the SLFP Central Committee appointed Prof. Rohana Lakshman Piyadasa as the new Acting Chairman of the party in place of President Maithripala Sirisena.

The decision was made after the SLFP decided to back SLPP Presidential candidate Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, despite vehement opposition by President Sirisena.