He was speaking at the opening of a SLFP office in Malabe town this afternoon (29).

Meanwhile, leading parties are having conflicting stands with regard to the date and the system under which the LG polls should be conducted.

The president has issued a gazette notification demarcating the polls.

Parties disagree

Accordingly, the SLFP wants the election held under the new electoral system, but a majority of the UNP says it should be held under the proportional representation system.

Political sources say the president will announce the date for the elections before March.

A majority in the SLFP wants to contest the LG polls on their own, with president Sirisena giving the leadership.

Former president Mahinda Rajapaksa has decided to keep a low profile during the election.