All support Government

CHAMINDA PERERA and ASELA KURULUWANSA

Central Province Chief Ministerial candidate Sarath Ekanayake yesterday said the people irrespective of their political, racial and religious affiliations have endorsed the Government's practical and pragmatic policies, aimed at peace and prosperity.

According to Ekanayake, the UPFA has gained unprecedented victory from the Kandy, Matale and Nuwara Eliya districts this time.

"The Central Province comprises all three communities and election victory implies that all communities are behind the Government."

Ekanayake said the candidates who contested the provincial council election under the UPFA ticket would dedicate themselves to provide an expeditious service to the public.

North Western Provincial Chief Ministerial candidate Athula Wijesinghe said the results of the Kurunegala district demonstrate that a party can still achieve a two third majority under this electoral system.

The UPFA has received a sweeping victory from the Kurunegala and Puttalam districts despite a minor incident. In Kurunegala district alone, the UPFA got over 75 per cent votes, he said.

"I thank the people of the North Western Province for their support to the Government at this decisive juncture," he added.

UNP Central Province Chief Ministerial candidate and one time Minister S.B. Dissanayake said he has no reservations over the final results of the Central province .

He said the provincial council election that ended yesterday was free from all sorts violence that would directly make an impact on the final results.

"The results of the Central Province was totally acceptable.

"The UPFA's victory shows that people are really dedicated to strengthen the Government that is engaged in annihilating terrorism," he said.

He said the UPFA has garnered an unexpected support from the people of all walks of life in these two provinces.

They have decided to vote for the Government in the midst of tremendous difficulties to end the ethnic conflict and bring peace to the country.

He said he has no regret over the UNP's defeat and vowed to remain in politics.