He said addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Suvadharani Deepa medical clinic series at Jayathilakararama temple in Peliyagoda yesterday that they will hold local government elections as soon as possible.

“We do not want to postpone elections. Postponing elections in a democratic country is not appropriate.  We will hold local government elections as soon as possible. However it is unlikely that local government polls will be held on April 25. I can say that the presidential election will be held in November,” he said.

“There are about 8,000 members of local government bodies across the country and it is a burden to the country. A commission was appointed and steps were taken to reduce the number of members.  Ready to proceed as soon as the report is received,” the State Minister said.