It came to light at the discussion that minister Champika Ranawaka has written a book that politically criticizes the government’s economic policy, mistakes and shortcomings and discusses solutions for the failing economy.

Several websites have reported that Ranawaka is planning to form JHU leaderships at district level and hoping to contest the next presidential election.

Ranawaka was not present at the meeting, which was attended by deputy minister Karu Paranawithana, JHU councilor Nishantha Sri Warnasinghe and several academics.

When contacted, Paranawithana said they had discussed media and promotional activities for Ranawaka’s book that will be launched on June 20.

He stressed that nothing was discussed at the meeting about Ranawaka’s future plans or his desire to contest the presidential polls.