Member of Parliament S. M. Chandrasena stated that former president Mahinda Rajapaksa will not be attending the anniversary celebrations of Sri Lanka Freedom Party as he will be out of the country for official purpose.

Chandrasena revealed this at a media gathering today morning.

He further stated that the former president revealed his plans on a foreign trip at a meeting with the members of 'Joint Opposition' at his residence in Mirihana.

Minister of Labour and Trade Union Relations John Seneviratne officially invited former president yesterday and he accepted the invitation. However Rajapaksa had told Seneviratne that he will take part only if he is in the country.