Former Leader of Jathika Hela Urumaya Omalpe Sobhitha Thera praised the decision taken by Athuraliye Rathana Thera to be an independent MP, saying that he has taken the decision in good faith.

Speaking to the media, Sobhitha Thera said that Rathana Thera expressed his feelings on the wrong path taken by the government in economic and constitutional aspects. Therefore, if he cannot agree with the government's views, it is better to be independent, he added.

However, Sobhitha Thera also said that Rathana Thera must also resign as an MP if the independence is to be complete.

Omalpe Sobhitha Thera, a long standing leader of the JHU, stepped down from his position as the JHU leader some months ago, although he did not leave the party.