NFF portfolios still under contention

Speculation rife on tug-of-war for Tourism Ministerial post

Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) splinter group- National Freedom Front (NFF), which broke away from the JVP, to support the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Government’s efforts to end the war, is to be offered two portfolios soon.
Speculation was rife that former JVP Presidential candidate and NFF Kalutara District Parliamentarian, Nandana Gunathilake, was to be given a Cabinet portfolio, while former JVP trade union stalwart from the same district, Piyasiri Wijenaike was to be sworn in as the Non Cabinet Minister of Cultural Affairs and National Heritage, within the course of this week, The Bottom Line learns.
However, speaking to The Bottom Line, Nandana Gunathilake said that, although his Party was requested by President Mahinda Rajapaksa to join the Government, it has yet to take a final decision on the matter.
“We met President Mahinda Rajapaksa last Monday, and discussed several matters, some of which cannot be revealed at this juncture. However, we have been offered ministerial portfolios, and we will decide on whether to accept, following a final discussion with President Rajapaksa later on.” Gunathilake said. (SF)