Today’s election of the next President of the Japan-Sri Lanka Friendship Society, one of the oldest friendship societies in the country, is expected to be a closely contested affair with two ex-presidents of the society supporting two candidates vying for the prestigious post.

Well informed sources Ms Sarojini Nagendran, in her 70s, had received the backing of a socialite lady while Fred Medis who claims to be a founder member of the society had obtained the support of a leading Colombo lawyer.

Medis, in his 80s is also a member of the Royal Asiatic Society.

The incumbent president Dr. Pandu Liyanage has decided to quit due to ill health although he could continue for two more terms. The sources said this was the only second instance of the 55-year-old society’s existence that the post would be filled through an election.

The post of the Vice President is contested by eight members at today’s election called at the Sasakawa hall.

The incumbent treasurer Nuski Mohamed who had been with the Sri Lanka Cricket Board some years ago will face Deepal Gunaratne, a management professional and a former Lotteries Board Chairman.