Mahajana Eksath Peramuna Leader and UPFA MP Dinesh Gunawardena is expected to be appointed as the nominal leader of the new front to be formed by the pro-Rajapaksa 'Joint Opposition', political sources said.

This move comes in the backdrop of the apparent reluctance shown by former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and former Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa to lead the front.

Although former Minister Basil Rajapaksa's name is also speculated as a possible leader, a section of the 'Joint Opposition' is said to be opposed to such an appointment.

Meanwhile, a considerable number of UPFA local councilors have already expressed their willingness to join the new front.

Pivithuru Hela Urumaya leader Udaya Gammanpila, National Freedom Front leader Wimal Weerawansa and Left Democratic Front leader Vasudeva Nanayakkara have all confirmed that the new front will be formed.