UNP to take up seats of governing party; Rajapaksa cannot make statement as PM

Strict measures would be taken in the event anyone acts against the no-confidence motion which was passed in Parliament today (Nov 14), MP Ajith Perera said.

If the government does not have a majority in Parliament when it convenes tomorrow or should a unlawfully appointed PM try to prevail against the no-confidence motion that was passed with a majority vote, steps will be taken to take action tomorrow, MP Ajith P. Perera said. 

He made this statement while addressing a media briefing held at Temple Trees today (Nov 14).

Speaking further, MP Perera said that the United National Party would take up seats of the governing party  during tomorrows parliamentary session as they have a majority in Parliament. He added that the TNA and the JVP would sit in the opposition as usual.

Mr Perera further said that the party leaders who brought forward the no confidence motion in Parliament are expected to meet  the President tomorrow. 

Meanwhile, MP Patali Champika Ranawaka said Mahinda Rajapaksa will not be able to make a statement in Parliament as Prime Minister.

He also said that PM Mahinda Rajapaksa and the cabinet have been dissolved as the Speaker accepted the no-confidence motion in Parliament today.

Speaking further, he noted that a Prime Minister is not required to resign as per section 48 (2) of the Constitution.

The Prime Minister's post will be invalid if an Appropriation Act or a no-confidence motion is defeated in Parliament, he said.