By Anura Balasuriya

A group of prominent SLFP members has proposed that a leadership council comprising President Maithripala Sirisena, former presidents Chandrika Kumaratunga and Mahinda Rajapaksa be appointed to steer the UPFA to victory at the next general election, according to party sources.

The proposal had been forwarded to former President Chandrika Kumaratunga by Chief Opposition Whip W. D. J. Seneviratne and it had been discussed at length, sources said.

Seneviratne has informed the former President Kumaratunga that the majority of party members are of the opinion that there is a need for a leadership council to win the forthcoming election.

Measures to be taken to strengthen the UPFA led by the SLFP, too, had been discussed during this meeting, sources said.

Criticism of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa would only lead to further frustration among the rank and file of the party, Seneviratne has pointed out, claiming that the need of the hour is to sink differences for the sake of party.

He has also requested former President Kumaratunga to intervene to provide protection and relief to the party members who have become victims of post-election violence.

Courtesy:The Island