Who is the next FM?

Speculation was rife over the next possible Foreign Minister after the resignation of Ravi Karunanayake with political circles narrowing on four possible shortlists. 

One is the current Minister of Development Assignments Tilak Marapana but it was alleged that two powerful Ministers have opposed this move since Marapana had to resign as Minister of Law and Order and Prison Reforms in 2015 over the Avant Garde case. 

Another candidate is Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera being asked to revert to his former portfolio. 

The third name is Plantation Industries Minister Navin Dissnayake whilst some also pointed to Ports and Shipping Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe.

The final decision on the new Foreign Minister will be announced following consensus between President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. 

Analysts said the new appointment likely to be temporary with indications that Karunanayake, will make a comeback after the conclusion of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry on the Treasury Bond scam.