Unofficial election results coming from polling stations across the island suggest that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, formed by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa's group has taken an early lead in the Local Government election. 

Our political sources said the SLPJ is leading the election with an easy margin in several districts, including Matara, Galle, Hambantota, Matale and Gampaha. 

The UNP has so far taken lead in Nuwaraeliya and Colombo districts - areas considered as the party's strongholds. 

Initial reports suggest that the SLFP, led by President Maithripala Sirisena, has been 'white-washed' in many electorates, across the country. 

However, official results of the election are yet to be announced by the election authorities. 

The Elections Commission sources said the first official results would be announced by 9.30 pm.