Sri Lanka Podujana Party (SLPP) today said it would support former Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa if the latter decided to run for the Presidency this year. 

Addressing a press conference at the Nelum Mawatha political office of the SLPP, UPFA MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena confirmed his party's support for the former Defence Secretary eying the presidency. 

"The former Defence Secretary also has a close connection with President Maithripala Sirisena. It is not difficult for them to embark on a journey together," the UPFA Parliamentarian said.

Abeygunawardena's statement followed a unanimous decision by All former Provincial Council members and Local Government members of the SLPP not to back President Maithripala Sirisena at a future Presidential election. 

A day after this decision, former Defence Secretary Rajapaksa, addressing a meeting in Colombo, hinted at the possibility of him running as a Presidential candidate.