A young man working at the operational office for the presidential election, headed by Minister of Economic Development - Basil Rajapaksa, has reportedly asked minister Maithripala Sirisena the number of electric posts that were present in the latter's home area of Polonnaruwa.

UNP leadership council chairman - Karu Jayasuriya says that he will extend his utmost support even if the UNP Working Committee decides to name UNP Deputy leader Sajith Premadasa as presidential candidate.

The SLFP Central Committee has unanimously decided to call for snap Presidential elections two years ahead of schedule and to field President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the party candidate.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa has requested Minister Maithripala Sirisena to accept the Prime Ministerial portfolio and join his presidential election battle, reliable sources say.

There is no room for a revival of terrorism within the grassroot level, Minister of Mass media and cabinet spokesman - Keheliya Rambukwella said.

If the opposition fails 'to play well', there is a higher possibility of President Mahinda Rajapaksa being defeated at the forthcoming presidential election, political analyst and senior journalist Victor Ivan says.

It is widely expected that President Mahinda Rajapaksa will announce the next Presidential elections today (19).