Azath Salley replies

COLOMBO: Reference our news item "UNP crisis takes another turn" published yesterday, Acting Colombo Mayor Azath Salley has sent us the following clarification.

"MP M. H. Mohamed is in no way responsible for the rejection of the UNP's nominations for Colombo.

As the list was brought and handed over to Mohamed at his residence by MP Milinda Moragoda's secretaries Kollure and Thennakoon at around 11.30 a.m, with less than 30 minutes to closing time. I was described as "Azath Salley former deputy mayor".

Azath Salley is still the deputy mayor and until March 2, 2006 Acting Mayor of Colombo.

Nufer Rahuman Attorney who was appointed by the Party for handing over the nomination, Mohamed and I, we all travelled in the same vehicle to Election Commissioner's office.

The Special Commission report on the incident will be published shortly whereby the truth will be revealed."