Minister says the many crucial factors will be considered in deciding the new CM

Leader of the house and Health Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva told BBC Sandeshaya that the government will “respect the mandate of the people” in appointing the eastern CM.

The leader of the Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP) and a senior regional Muslim leader are both vying for the CM post.

Two candidates

General Secretary of the United Peoples Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Minister Susil Premjayanth last week told journalists that the community that gains get the most councillors would be offered the post.

However Minister de Silva told BBC Sandeshaya the factors such as “special situation in the east” need to be taken into account and to make sure that no community is discriminated.

TMVP leader Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan alias Pillayan has secured the highest preferential votes in the elections held on Saturday.

However, unconfirmed reports suggest more Muslim councillors than Tamil councillors were appointed in preferential votes.

Former minister, MLAM Hisbullah, who led the Muslim candidates for the UPFA also claims the most senior government post in the newly de-merged eastern province.

Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities share almost equal representation in the east that consists of Batticaloa, Ampara and Trincomalee districts.