The main opposition UNP yesterday criticized the JVP for not responding to its proposal to contest the general election under a common symbol in some districts while fielding candidates under the elephant symbol elsewhere.

Addressing a hurriedly summoned news conference, UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake said the UNP, as the single largest party in the opposition, sought views from the JVP with regard to this proposal aimed at binding the opposition parties together in the fight against the UPFA.

“We waited for a response until last Sunday. We did not hear anything from them. Nevertheless, we have still kept the option open. We have finalized nominations only to a certain extent. There is space for us to accommodate some others on board. If they are willing, they can respond within the next few days,” Mr. Attanayake said.

Asked why the UNP was not ready to compromise the elephant symbol for a common political formation for the whole country, the General Secretary   vaguely said all members of his party’s Working Committee wanted to retain the elephant symbol. 

“Besides, our leader was given the authority to discuss alternatives for a common front with the other parties. The parties in the newly formed United National Front (UNF) also stood for the elephant symbol. In the meantime, we made this proposal to contest under a common symbol in selected districts,” he said.

Mr. Attanayake also said Gen. Fonseka was offered the deputy leader post   in the UNP.

“We asked for Gen. Fonseka’s views in this regard through his Attorney former MP Wijedasa Rajapakse.  We have not heard from him yet. He would respond after consulting other parties,” the General Secretary said.

However, he noted the UNP WAS willing to appear on the same stage with the JVP, as at the Presidential Election, when they campaign for the parliamentary election.

JVP General Secretary Tilvin Silva responded to the UNP proposal , saying it was a mockery to contest the election under two symbols. 

“There is no basis for Mr. Attanayake’s allegation that we did not respond to their proposal.

 We met UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe on February 20.  At that meeting, we categorically said the proposal to contest under a common symbol in some districts was not acceptable to us. It is not practical,” Mr. Silva said.He said, “If they want to retain the elephant symbol, let them to do it. We will go our own way. However, it is still not late for the UNP to change its stand. ”