Presidential campaign begins in Sri Lanka

Mahinda Rajapaksa, who called election two years ahead of schedule, faces 18 challengers in bid to seek third term.

Sri Lanka’s presidential race has kicked off, with 19 candidates handing in nomination papers. President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is seeking a third term, called for the vote two years ahead of schedule. His main rival is his former health minister, who joined the race as the common opposition candidate.

Al Jazeera’s Minelle Fernandez reports from Colombo.

Source: Al Jazeera