Former Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva says he was approached to become the common opposition candidate ahead of the 2015 presidential election before the opportunity was offered to former President Maithripala Sirisena.
Speaking at an event marking the 75th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), de Silva said he chose to remain loyal to the party rather than pursue the presidency.
“You know that at the 2015 election, Maithripala Sirisena left the party and became the common candidate. I was invited before him. But I loved the party more than the presidency. That is why I am still in this party today,” he said.
De Silva said his continued involvement in the SLFP was driven by his commitment to the party.
He also called for the party’s future leadership to be handed over to a united younger generation, rather than to groups divided by internal rivalries.
“I have always said that young people should take over this party. But it should not be a group fighting among themselves. A united group of young people should take over the party,” he said.
De Silva added that he was prepared to relinquish any positions he currently holds if required. (Newswire)