The Sri Lanka Podujana Party said the document, which is being circulated on social media indicating SLPP candidate Gotabhaya Rajapaksa is still a US citizen, is false.

"The document is and as clarified by the US embassy in Colombo, November 11th was an American holiday (Veterans Day) NO official documents are issued by the State Department on public holidays," Rajapaksa's office said in a statement.

The "fake" letter surfaced only a day before the Presidential election where Rajapaksa faces a tough contest.

Meanwhile, a group of lawyers attached to the SLPP has complained to the Elections Commission regarding the letter.

In their complaint, they said Shiral Lakthilake, an Advisor to President Maithripala Sirisena who is now supporting Premadasa, was the one who distributed the letter.