PNF, Wimal's option, now a recognized political party

The Patriotic National Front (PNF), a party led by MP Piyasiri Wijenayake and considered by Wimal Weerawansa as an option for his National Freedom Front (NFF), has become a recognized political party.

Elections Commissioner Dayananda Dissanayake today (June 03rd) accepted the registration of the PNF, a senior official at the Elections Secretariat said.

Mr. Wijenayake is Trade Unions Coordinating Secretary of the NFF.

He had applied for PNF's registration on the same day Mr. Weerawansa, together with the party's Secretary Nandana Gunatilake, sent the NFF's application.

With the PNF's recognition, the Elections Secretariat has up to now registered 59 political parties.

The Elections Commissioner has also recognized the NFF as a political party, but there still is an uncertainty about its symbol, the official said.

Therefore, it has not been included in a list of parties that can contest elections.

The PNF is the only party - out of 16 that had applied after May 10th - which have been accepted by the Elections Commissioner.

Earlier today, NFF leader Wimal Weerawansa told the media that they could not contest the upcoming provincial polls, as the party had yet to be recognized.