UNP will support steps to end war

[TamilNet, Monday, 27 December 1999, 18:48 GMT]
Sri Lanka's main opposition United National Party (UNP) today said it would extend its support to the President Chandrika Kumaratunge if she took firm and reasonable steps to end the island's protracted conflict.

The Working Committee and Parliamentary Group of the main opposition party today met at its headquarters, Sri Kotha.

Mr. Ranil Wickremasinghe, leader of the party presided.

It was decided at the meeting to institute legal action as regards the alleged election fraud by the ruling People's Alliance in the recent presidential elections once the party had received written complaints.

The UNP executive committee and parliamentary group expressed concern over statements made by some members of the International Observing Group that the presidential election held last Tuesday was free and fair.

The UNP endorsed the leadership of Mr. Ranil Wickremasinghe who unsuccessfully contested the presidential election held last week.

The appeal by President Kumaratunge to the UNP to join her government was also discussed at the meeting. Several members pointed out that the government had not extended an invitation officially to the UNP in this regard.