"We will forcefully take over the government" - MP Patali Champika Ranawaka

Colombo (News1st): The interim order of the court of appeal was issued while a public rally organized by the United National Front was underway in Galle. UNP MP Patali Champika Ranawaka received the news while addressing the public at the rally. Addressing the rally he stated that the court has prohibited Mahinda Rajapaksa from being PM and he called on the President to hand over the government to them on Wednesday. He went onto note that if the government is not turned over then they will forcefully take over. Speaking at the event, UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe also noted that the court stated that this is not a verdict against the government but against individuals. "It said that the relevant authorities can appoint a legitimate Prime Minister and a legitimate cabinet. Thereby it would not harm the governance of the country," said Ranil Wickremesinghe. He noted that they have affidavits and pledges to show that they have the majority in parliament and this has been given to the President. Wickremesinghe said that their fight is to uphold the country's sovereignty. Meanwhile, Secretary General of the UNP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said that the leaders of their government will meet President at 8 PM to hand over the 123 affidavits. He noted that they will request the President to restore the government which prevailed on the 26th.