Health Minister Dr. Rajitha Senaratne defended the decision to grant nomination to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, saying that it was done to preserve the unity of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party.

Speaking to a local media channel, he said that if the party divides, it will be advantageous to the United National Party.

Senaratne said that Rajapaksa had requested to be the Prime Ministerial candidate. When it was refused he wanted to be the team leader or at least nominations. Senaratne said that granting nominations was the maximum the party could agree.

He added that party leaders discussed the matter and took a collective decision.

Senaratne agreed that a certain section of potential votes might be lost due to the decision.