Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam stated that several Sri Lanka Freedom Party parliamentarians are contesting the forthcoming general election under the United National Party ticket.

Speaking at a media briefing at ‘Sirikotha’ UNP party headquarters, Kariyawasam said that several SLFP members had asked the UNP to give them nominations for the general election. Kariyawasam said that some of them will get an opportunity to contest from UNP ticket.

He further stated that despite the request by some SLFP leaders to form a national government and postpone the election, the UNP wants election to be called in April as pledged in the 100 Days Program.

Kariyawasam also said that it was not yet decided to introduce a new electoral system, adding that the government needs to talk with minority parties before taking a final decision.

However, the UNP is hoping to win the forthcoming election and form a national government with other parties, Kariyawasam said.