UPFA MP Mahindananda Aluthgamage has refuted claims that a group of 'Joint Opposition' MPs are planning to join the government, adding that former Minister Basil Rajapaksa was behind the origin of this rumor.

Speaking to a vernacular newspaper, Aluthgamage said that Basil Rajapaksa is reacting in this manner since his attempts to seize power in the 'Joint Opposition' was unsuccessful.

He points out that a section of the 'Joint Opposition' was vehemently opposed to the involvement of Basil Rajapaksa in their work.

Aluthgamage added that the 'Joint Opposition' MPs have taken a collective decision of not supporting the 'good governance government.' However, if President Maithripala Sirisena intends to form a SLFP-led government, all the MPs in the 'Joint Opposition' will support such a government, he added.