In a special statement to media, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa requested the winners of the Local Government election to celebrate their victory peacefully. 

Speaking to media at his residence, a short while ago, Rajapaksa said he was thankful to everyone who supported the victory of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna. 

"There were may challenges. But, despite all problems and difficulties, the people of the country have decided to ensure our victory," the former President said. 

"I request the winners to celebrate their victory without causing inconvenience to the losing side," he also added. 

The former President also stated that the winners of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna must set an example to others. 

The former President's statement came in the wake of unofficial election results coming from polling stations across the island, suggesting that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna had 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. 

However, the official results of the election, have not yet been issued by the elections authorities.