In a statement, he urged the people of Matara to refrain from casting their preferential vote for him at the upcoming 2020 Parliamentary Election although his name appears on the nomination list as a candidate.
Mr. Samaraweera has also said he had notified both the Samagi Jana Balawegaya leader - Sajith Premadasa and United National Party leader - Ranil Wickremesinghe on this regard.
He made the announcement at a discussion held a meeting yesterday (09) at his residence with local government representatives from Matara and briefed them regarding his decision.
Although I have decided to bid adieu to parliamentary politics, this in no way would mean I am going to retire from politics, he has said, adding that it was a new step beyond parliamentary politics for democracy, reconciliation and development in the country.
Mr. Samaraweera further said he expected the blessings of the Matara public, who has given him strength for the last 32 years, as he embarks on a new political journey.
