The President has also decided to suspend the membership of several prominent party members who are repeatedly plotting to divide the party and violating the party constitution and discipline. They are also to be relieved from their posts and duties in the party, sources add.

Speaking on this regard, SLFP General Secretary - minister Duminda Dissanayake said that a wave of dissent had already arisen from within the party, against retaining such individuals disloyal to the party.

Therefore, such individuals will have to be removed, he added.

Noting that a small group was conspiring to divide the party after misusing the freedom given to SLFPers by President Maithripala Sirisena, minister Dissanayake said, " We will not allow it. We will defeat these conspiracies and safeguard the party."