President Mahinda Rajapaksa had reportedly telephoned Common Candidate Maithripala Sirisena and congratulated him over the victory.

Sources close to the President also said he discussed transition arrangements with the Common Candidate during the brief telephone conversation.

It is still not clear as to when Maithripala Sirsena would take oaths as the President of Sri Lanka. While some speculate that he will take oaths this evening itself his elections manifesto states that the new President will take oaths on Saturday (January 10).

Meanwhile, sources from the Common opposition said a sizable proportion of ruling party members are likely to pledge support to Sirisena after his ascension to power.