Minister Chandima Weerakkody stated that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is being put into a difficult position by people who are not genuine Sri Lanka Freedom Party members.

Speaking to the media recently, he said that Johnston Fernando, a stalwart in the 'Joint Opposition' once conspired to murder Rajapaksa.

"I think a court case is still ongoing regarding the matter" he said.

Individuals like Gamini Lokuge and Keheliya Rambukwella were notorious for assaulting SLFP members some years ago, Weerakkody added. Meanwhile, Bandula Gunawardena and GL Peiris were among those who caused the collapse of the PA government in 2001, he added.

Meanwhile Udaya Gammanpila and Wimal Weerawansa were never SLFP members, he added.

Rajapaksa, who is a true SLFP member has been put into a position from where he cannot move out by these individuals, Weerakkody alleged.