Opposition Leader R. Sampanthan yesterday said that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa's support will be essential for the approval of a new constitution.

Taking part in the Parliamentary debate on the resolution to establish a Constitutional Assembly, Sampanthan said that Rajapaksa was a national leader.

Drafting a new constitution is a national task. Therefore, the support of national leaders was essential in this, he added.

Sampanthan acknowledged that Rajapaksa also attempted to introduce a constitutional solution to the national question. Therefore, he expressed confidence that Rajapaksa will contribute to the effort.

Rajapaksa will also be able to create a new future in politics by contributing to this effort, Sampanthan said.