In a strongly-worded statement, UNP MP Mangala Samaraweera denounced the Sirisena-Rajapaksa 'government', saying it was illegal, and promised stern action against those legitimizing the coup.

'The so-called 'government', headed by Parliamentarian Mahinda Rajapaksa, is formed following a coup and not through a constitutionally accepted process. It has no legitimacy to operate in office, nor does it have any moral or ethical right to continue in office,' the statement by Samaraweera read. 

'Therefore, all appointments are made by the so-called new government are deemed illegal and we will take stern action against the individuals accepting them,' he said.  

'We, the democratically elected government with a clear majority in Parliament, will defeat the coup and establish a stable government through a democratic and constitutional process in Parliament. Many foreign countries and international bodies such as the United Nations (UN) have stressed the need to respect the constitutional process and uphold the rule of law.' 

'We wish to reiterate that all state officials who accept positions from this illegitimate and unconstitutional government will be considered individuals aiding and abetting the coup.'