UPFA Parliamentarian Kumara Welgama said he was the most suitable member of the Sri Lanka Podujana Party (SLPP) — after Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa — to become the Presidential candidate of the party. 

Addressing a meeting in his electorate, Welgama said some people are projecting various members of the Rajapaksa family as potential presidential candidates. 

He added that some people had gone to the extent of suggesting Shiranthi Rajapaksa, the wife of Mahinda Rajapaksa, as a potential Presidential candidate. 

"Is Rajapaksa family is the Sri Lankan equivalent of the Royal family of England," Welgama asked, positioning him as the most suitable member within his camp to become the Presidential candidate. 

Welgama also added that he would abolish the Executive Presidency within six months after coming to power.