The new political party to be formed by the 'Joint Opposition' could be registered within two weeks, political sources said.

A crucial meeting took place last night at former President Mahinda Rajapaksa's residence at Mirihana to finalize the details of the political party.

The 'Joint Opposition' has agreed that Rajapaksa must be appointed leader of the new party.

The names of his brothers Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Basil Rajapaksa had been mentioned in political sources as possible leaders during the last few weeks. However, neither of the three Rajapaksa's have made any public announcement of their plans to assume leadership of the new party. However, both brothers of Mahinda Rajapaksa have indicated the need for a new party.

Mahinda Rajapaksa and Gotabaya Rajapaksa were seen together at the signing of a public petition yesterday.