The ex-president now has to battle it out with the leader of his own party, after he was told, in a lengthy letter by president Sirisena, to be flexible in order to appoint some other party senior as the premier.

The president’s letter appears to have given a new strength to the UNP, but it also contains a warning that if the UPFA comes near to the 113 seat mark, a government will be formed with the support of other parties and a senior SLFPer appointed the PM.

Opinion polls

According to an Indian opinion poll, Rajapaksa is leading in the race and his UPFA will easily be able to win a majority of seats.

The media reports massive crowds at his rallies, but the last presidential election, as well as the 1956 and 1977 general elections, proved that that is not a factor to be considered in deciding an election outcome.

Most local opinion polls say the UNP is ahead, but that it will not be able to gain a clear majority.

However, president Sirisenas’ letter to Rajapaksa will definitely make a considerable impact on the election outcome, BBC Sandeshaya reports.