Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne said a famous Buddhist monk requested him to contest for the next Presidential election.

Addressing a public event, Senaratne said the Buddhist monk urged him to "raise funds somehow" and run for the Presidency.

Meanwhile, in an interview with a private TV station, Senaratne said he was ready to run for the Presidency, if the party decided to grant him nominations.

"If I get the nomination, I know how to win the Presidential election, " Senaratne said adding that he would secure votes from both sides.

"Just like I revived the Health Ministry and the Fisheries Ministry, I will revive the country too, " Senaratne added.