He made his point known at a meeting with leading figures of the joint opposition on September 27.

They discussed that without leaving the SLFP, they should refrain from supporting its present leadership and remain in their stance.

Mahinda’s plan is to establish power at a decisive time, and become leader of the party again, ‘Sathhanda’ reports.

Basil opposed

However, forming a new party under the leadership of Basil Rajapaksa which is underway, was once again opposed by SLFP seniors and leftist parties in the joint opposition present at the meeting.

They stressed that they should strengthen their power country wide as a separate political force.