The decision has been made unanimously at a special meeting held this morning (Nov 21) under the precedence of UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Nearly 65 individuals including UNP parliamentarians, provincial councillors and opposition leaders have participated in the meeting.

At the meeting which saw the participation of UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa and Chairman of leadership council Karu Jayasuriya, Minister Maithripala Sirisena has been discussed for the position of common candidate.

Accordingly, if Maithripala Sirisena is to quit the government, the UNP has agreed to field him as the common candidate and extend their support.