Within a few hours of the release of a 'press release' claiming from him, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa officially confirmed his participation at the 'Joint Opposition' rally to be held on March 17.

"Don't be misled by false propaganda. Former President Rajapaksa will attend Joint Opposition Rally, March 17, at Hyde Park in Colombo" Rajapaksa's Twitter handle announced a short while ago.

The release said that Rajapaksa will abide by the SLFP Central Committee ruling and will not attend the rally.

Interestingly, it came after repeated assurance from the Joint Opposition that Rajapaksa will attend. UPFA MP Ranjith Zoysa told Asian Mirror earlier in the day that all but two Joint Opposition MPs will attend the rally.

The press release was not released from any of the official channels of Rajapaksa, namely his website, Facebook Page or Twitter handle.

Related story: Forged 'Press Release' Claims Rajapaksa Will Not Attend Joint Opposition Rally (See Document)