Ranil warns partymen not to harass rivals

UNP Presidential candidate Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday vowed tough action against anyone, including his own partymen, who resort to harassment of political opponents if he wins the November 17 poll.

"Once I assume duties, I will be the President of all Sri Lankans. People cannot be allowed to be divided on lines of party, creed and casts. It is my duty to protect all citizens." He requested members of the UNP and those of other political parties supporting him not to harm rival supporters. "I don't want any member of the SLFP harmed and I request everyone to help maintain law and order."

He promised to take disciplinary action against any person resorting to harassing political opponents. "I am ready to hold independent inquiries into such incidents and take action." He said the UNP welcomed international and local monitors to oversee the Presidential election.

BM