Former Sri Lankan army chief likely to stand in 2010 polls

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Updated November 16, 2009 21:31:42

Sri Lanka's President Mahinda Rajapakse has put off a widely anticipated announcement of dates for next year's presidential and parliamentary elections. He didn't give a reason, but it follows the resignation on Friday of army chief General Sarath Fonseka, who's considered likely to enter politics and stand against Mr Rajapakse.

General Fonseka was widely credited with winning a 25-year war against Tamil Tiger rebels which ended in May. Political analysts say he could split Mr Rajapaksa's voter base and revitalise the long-dormant opposition.

Presenter: Joanna McCarthy
Speakers: Dr Pakiasothy Saravanamuttu, executive director, Centre for Policy Alternatives, Colombo; Dr Jehan Perera, executive director, National Peace Council, Colombo

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