During the recent discussion between President Maithripala Sirisena and former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the president has refused to name the latter as PM candidacy of the SLFP ticket.

Although it was proposed that Mahajana Eksath Peramuna leader Dinesh Gunewardena should be named as Prime ministerial candidate, it has been rejected.

Chamal Rajapaksa's name has sprung up due to him being the seniormost MP and him being a person who is free from corruption alleges.

Also, this would enable Rajapaksa relations and supporters to be free from the corruption allegations leveled against them, reports say.

However, sources say that the President has decided not to name the Prime ministerial candidate of the SLFP and firmly believes that a national government should be in function until two years elapse.

(Randiva)