He told Sri Lanka Mirror, however, that he would support Mahinda Rajapaksa in his campaign.

Basil said he was not involved in the preparation of nominations of the SLFP, but said he was making contributions to ensure that the process would not divide the party.

According to him, both Maithripala Sirisena and Mahinda Rajapaksa want to prevent a division of the party.

But, both sides are opposing giving nominations to certain persons, he said, adding that he was involved in getting such issues sorted out.

Basil said either Wimal Weerawansa or Udaya Gammanpila would be given nominations to contest on the UPFA ticket.

The SLFP should correct past mistakes and go forward without allowing for a division, he added.