A conspiracy was underway without the knowledge of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to make Basil Rajapaksa Prime Minister, Minister P. Harrison said recently.

A secret discussion was held in this regard with the participation of several ex-UNP supporters of the 'Joint Opposition' he also claimed.

Basil Rajapaksa's recent activities have created tension within the Rajapaksa family and their supporters, the Minister added. He claimed that Gotabaya Rajapaksa left the country as a result of this situation.

Meanwhile, the 'Joint Opposition' has been thrown into disarray with Basil Rajapaksa's increasing involvement, Harrison said. Wimal Weerawansa publicly said that he had to think twice about Basil Rajapaksa coming to the forefront, he pointed out. Several others have also expressed their displeasure, Harrison said.

Therefore, the 'Joint Opposition' time bomb will explode sometime after the May Day, he said.