Karu prepared to further mediate to resolve UNP crisis

Former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya says he is willing to further mediate to resolve the crisis within the United National Party (UNP) if both factions of the party have a genuine desire to find a solution. 

Issuing a media release, Chaminda Gamage, Mr Jayasuriya's Media Secretary stated that discussions mediated by the former Speaker were held  at Mr Jayasuriya's residence in Bambalapitiya on Sunday (8) and Monday (9) between the two parties over the issues that have arisen on contesting the upcoming parliamentary election. 

The talks on Sunday were held between political representatives of the two factions while lawyers representing the two factions participated at the talks held yesterday. 

The release stated that the former Speaker agreed to mediate in the talks after requests were made by both factions to act as a mediator. However, no final decision has been reached on the matter after the two rounds of talks. Nevertheless, Mr Jayasuriya states that he would not hesitate to further mediate in the talks provided both parties show a genuine interest in resolving the issues.