COLOMBO: Sri Lanka's government has presented a relief budget that increases salaries and reduces water and electricity tariffs ahead of a possible presidential election in 2015.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is also the finance minister, read the proposals in Parliament.

Rajapaksa was at the peak of his popularity after he ended a bloody 25-year civil war five years ago.

However, results of a recent provincial election showed a dramatic slide in support amid economic hardships and a collapse of rule of law.

Rajapaksa has hinted that he may seek a third term in an election in January, two years ahead of schedule.