"I will contest the election, not come through the national list" - Former President Maithripala Sirisena

COLOMBO (News 1st):- During an event held in Bakamuna, Polonnaruwa former President Maithripala Sirisena commented on the preparations for the upcoming polls. He said:

"Some of them are asking why I am returning to Parliament after the Presidential election. When our party's parliamentary group asked me to contest, I asked why I should come back? The answer given to me was if Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa can come back, why can't you come to parliament."

The former president continued to say;

"Everyone said that there is a problem with Polonnaruwa and asked who is going to be in charge of the city. Some said to contest from the district I am from. Our party seniors said not to contest but to come through the national list. There was no problem whatsoever. I could have gone. You can come and speak about this but I am of the stance that it is degrading to come in as a national list MP after becoming president. Therefore, I will contest in the election and come to Polonnaruwa. I trust the people of Polonnaruwa."