Key members of the 'Joint Opposition' supporting former President Mahinda Rajapaksa are taking two different positions regarding the new Central Bank Governor Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy within days after his appointment.

Mahajana Eksath Peramuna leader and veteran politician Dinesh Gunawardene commended the government for the appointment within hours after it was announced on Saturday.

Through his Twitter handle, Gunawardene said that he welcomed the appointment of the new CB Governor, who is an experienced professional and respected in his field. Gunawardena also expressed hope that the new Governor would repair the lost credibility of the Central Bank.

However, National Freedom Front leader Wimal Weerawansa slammed the decision yesterday, pointing out that the CB Governor was once an adviser of Raj Rajaratnam, who was convicted for insider trading in the US and given a prison term of 11 years. Furthermore, Dr. Coomaraswamy is also engaged in private businesses of his own, Weerawansa claimed.

Pivithuru Hela Urumaya General Secretary Udaya Gammanpila also expressed a similar opinion today. However, he added that the 'Joint Opposition' could not discuss the matter after the appointment of the Governor of the CBSL.

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa is yet to make a comment of the appointment of the new Governor of the CBSL.