We are also independent in the opposition - Maithripala

Delivering a special statement in the House, the former President said the decision was reached after taking into account the host of issues in the country, including the ongoing economic, social and political crises.

Thereby, the parliamentary group of Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), the 11 constituent political parties of the government and Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MPs who recently decided to become independent in the House have sat in the Opposition.