General to compete

The Sri Lankan general who oversaw the end of 25 years of war said he will run for president, pitting himself against the man who also takes credit for the victory against Tamil Tiger rebels.

Sarath Fonseka quit the military after a 34-month offensive, accusing President Mahinda Rajapaksa of sidelining him over unfounded coup fears. He could now split Rajapaksa's support base.

"I have decided to contest in the presidential poll as a common candidate of the opposition parties, on their request," Fonseka, the former chief of defence staff, said.

The elections are scheduled for January 26.