Former Minister Mervyn Silva today announced that he was launching the authentic 'Joint Opposition' with himself as its leader.

He made this announcement at a press conference held in Colombo. A banner with the name and symbol of the 'Joint Opposition' was hanging behind him as he spoke.

He described the 'Joint Opposition' supporting former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as something not needed, similar to the appendix in a human body.

He added that those who claim to be the 'Joint Opposition' cannot use the term as they are UPFA Parliamentarians.

Silva claimed that a large number of supporters will be joining him in this new movement.