He said he didn’t want to contest from any other political party, despite several other political parties inviting him to do so.

Rajapaksa had a brief dialogue with the media after a meeting with a group of UPFA provincial councilors at the Abhayaramaya in Narahenpita yesterday.
Excerpts from the dialogue:

Q: The SLFP has joined to form a National government. You are also an advisor of the SLFP?
A: No one listens to me, so what should I do? Is this called a National government? This is a coalition. Is the JVP also in this?

Q: What do you think about a group of SLFP MPs accepting ministerial portfolios?
A: You should ask that question from them.

Q: You haven’t received the official residence yet?
A: It will be given.

Q: The MPs who were to support you, have taken ministerial portfolios. How do you feel?
A: All are supporting me. No one is against me. Who are against me? Just name anyone, then I can inquire from him. As far as I am concerned no one is against me. How can those who were with me for several years go against me?

Q: A person, who was with you for a long period left you?
A: Who?

Q: The current President.
A: Yes, but he became the President. If it is good for him, I am very happy.

Q: Ready to contest?
A: For what?

Q: An election?
A: There should be an election to talk about elections or contesting. I am at this moment enjoying a political break.