Once the SLFP becomes party to the government, the TNA has the next highest number of MP positions, said a TNA spokesman.

Meanwhile, MP-elect from Kurunegala, ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa said yesterday (20) in a statement that he would not accept the opposition leader position, and that he will remain as an MP.

He had a meeting of MP-elects loyal to him, which number more than 60.

Mahinda loyalists to remain in opposition?

One of them, Ranjith Soyza from Ratnapura, said whatever decision his party takes, he will sit in the opposition.

S.M. Chandrasena from Anuradhapura said at a media briefing that he would never join a national government even if he had to leave politics.

Meanwhile, SLFP patron, ex-president Chandrika Kumaratunga said at yesterday’s central committee meeting of the party that those who oppose the national government should be removed from the party.

She was responding to objections raised by Kumar Welgama, Dullas Alahapperuma and Pavitra Wanniarachchi.