A ‘cold war’ for UNP leadership?

Two characters have emerged as prominent contenders for the future leadership of the United National Party (UNP). The party recently decided to hold elections for several senior posts, which decision has gained considerable support within the UNP.

Sajith Premadasa who represents the Hambantota District in Parliament has made it clear recently that he is a chief contender for the leadership of the UNP. Meanwhile, Ravi Karunanayake who represented the Kotte electorate and is from the Colombo District has also emerged as a formidable candidate, sources close to the UNP said.

In an interview to a weekly newspaper too, Mr. Karunanayake has made it clear that he would be an aspirant to the top leadership, these sources pointed out.

However, party sources also point out that while Sajith Premadasa enjoys grassroots level support Ravi Karunanayake too enjoys considerable support from the top level UNP leadership, which could help sway support towards him in the event of an election for such position.

Sajith Premadasa and Ravi Karunanayaka have already launched their media blitz towards their respective goals, sources said.

The UNP Reforms Committee headed by Parliamentarian Joseph Michael Perera is in the process of pouring through proposals forwarded by party members and is said to be hard pressed for time to beat the deadline.