Minister Rishad Bathiudeen extended his support to Common Candidate of the opposition Maithripala Sirisena, a short while ago.

He is presently holding a press conference at the Opposition Leader's Office in Colombo. Bathiudeen is the leader of the ACMC, the second largest Muslim party in the country. 

Bathiudeen was joined by Amir Ali, the recently appointed UPFA National List Parliamentarian, who is also a key figure of the ACMC. 

Bathiudeen told reporters that seven provincial Councillors and 69 local government representatives also joined with Common Opposition along with him and MP Amir Ali.

The Minister dubbed his decision as a move that was made on behalf of his community.

While criticizing the conduct of the Bodu Bala Sena organization, which is supportive of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Bathiudeen also commended the role played by Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa to make 'peace' between the two parties.

The press conference was also attended by Common Candidate Maithripala Sirisena, UNP National Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe and former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga.

The ACMC made the decision to support Common Candidate Maithripala Sirisena two days after a party delegation met President Mahinda Rajapaksa and pledged support to him. 

However, Bathiudeen was a notable absentee during President Rajapaksa's recent visit to the Eastern province.