Former Opposition Leader of the North-Western Provincial Council Shamal Senarat has been appointed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the United National Party. 

Senarath's job will be to look into the administrative affairs of the party and its headquarters. Informed UNP sources said the CEO would play a "political role" in the party ranks. 

"Senarath assured that he will be fully committed to the new role and stay away from electoral politics," a senior party spokesman told Asian Mirror, a short while ago. 

The CEO, he said, would report to the party leader and the General Secretary. Interestingly, Senarath and UNP General Secretary Akila Viraj Kariyawasam represent the same district - Kurunegala.

A CEO position for the UNP was suggested by several committees appointed to look into party reforms. The latest committee to propose the appointment of a CEO was the one headed by State Minister Ruwan Wijewardena.