By Azra Ameen

A decision has been taken by the UNP Working Committee to amend the UNP constitution so that the party leadership can be held only for a period of six years from the date of election.

Addressing a press conference today (19), UNP General Secretary, Tissa Attanayake said that the WC decided that those appointed to the posts of party chairman, general secretary and treasurer will be chosen by the party leader. While any new appointment to the posts of deputy leader, assistant leader and the national organizer will have to be approved by the consensus of the Working Committee.

He also  He also said that if more than one third of the total number of members of the Working Committee were to nominate an alternative candidate for the posts of deputy leader, assistant leader and national organizer there shall be an election. 

He added that the media has carried several reports that former Army Commander Sarath Fonseka is to join the UNP but that it is not true. “When he was released we invited him to join hands with the UNP and participate in our propaganda against the government. Our request is still open to him, he can join us any time to help us in our activities against the government,” Attanayake said.

Even if he wants to join the UNP he has to just apply and the matter will be considered at the Working Committee sessions and then a decision about it will be taken, he said.  

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