Former Minister and SJB MP Rajitha Senaratne said SLPP National Organiser Basil Rajapaksa was the only non-extremist person in the Rajapaksa family.

In an interview with Asian Mirror, Senaratne said Basil Rajapaksa, a key figure in the ruling camp, had a sensible approach to governance.

"He is a school mate of mine so I know what I am talking about. He knows a country cannot be governed by alienating Tamils and Muslims. I knows the repercussions of pandering to extremism," Senaratne added.

These remarks come at a time when sections within the ruling camp have launched a scathing attack against Basil Rajapaksa and his supporters in the government.