Over 10 SLFP Ministers and deputy ministers representing the unity government now holding talks to join the Joint Opposition at the end of the party's two year MOU with the UNP. 

Informed political sources said they would step down from their positions end September. 

They added that the group's discussions with the Rajapaksa group had been successful. Among them are several senior SLFPers who held cabinet portfolios under the Rajapaksa government. 

They will continue to be SLFP members but will stay away from the group supporting President Maithripala Sirisena. 

The move comes ahead of three crucial Provincial Council elections due for October. 

The unity government commands the support of over 150 MPs of the House. Therefore, according to political observers, the crossover of 10 MPs may not affect the stability of the coalition government. 

However, such a move may weaken the President's standing in his own party - the SLFP.