He had said this in a special statement to the ‘Mawbima’ newspaper.

He had pointed out that if the government forges ahead with the economic policies of the UNP, the country would be plunged into serious economic ruin, adding that the fast rising of the American Dollar and the rapid devaluation of the rupee were also matters that were discussed.

Nanayakkara noted that large crowds had joined the ‘Jana Balaya – Kolambata’ rally forcing the government to call for an election and the Sirisena and Rajapaksa groups were also discussing this matter during their meetings.

Mahinda Rajapaksa’s response?

Nanayakkara said that the commencement of the Budget debate would be a good time to initiate action to change the government and they intend to obtain the support of the other political parties too in this endeavour.

He said senior representatives of the group of 15 were in discussion with President Sirisena, while he and several party leaders of the Joint Opposition were in discussion with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Vasudeva Nanayakkara said that he had asked former President Rajapaksa if he would accept the post of Prime Minister if the government is toppled and he had responded positively saying that he would not let down the country or the people and he would accept the Premiership if required.

Meanwhile, S.B. Dissanayake of the group of 15 said that ‘Jana Balaya – Kolambata’ protest march had received the blessings of the President.