JVP to finalise alliance

The main opposition People's Alliance (PA) is finalising arrangements with the Marxist JVP (People's Liberation Front) on working out a broad alliance and discussing a common opposition programme to counter the ruling United Liberation Front (UNF).

The second round of talks between a PA delegation, led by President Chandrika Kumaratunga, and the JVP leadership took place late on Tuesday evening with few more rounds of talks due to take place.

Despite Kumaratunga's office repeatedly saying that the president will not dissolve parliament and opt for fresh elections, the two sides discussed the possibility of facing another elections in the coming months.

At Tuesday's meeting, the JVP pointed out that with the ongoing clashes between Kumaratunga and the ruling UNF, led by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, it may be inevitable that they would have to face fresh polls.

The JVP has been considering a no-contest pact with the PA in the event of new elections, but there has been opposition from some of the PA politicians about agreeing on a broad consensus with the JVP.

Among those who have been opposing such a move is the opposition leader in parliament, Mahinda Rajapaksha, who is being backed by some former ministers and deputy ministers.

The JVP is considering a no-contest pact with the PA in the southern province, the hometown of the founder leader of the party, late Rohana Wijeweera, where it has a strong base.

But the PA is also strong in the southern province.

The JVP wants further discussions with the PA and wanted Kumaratunga to name a team which could discuss their future programmes.