Higher Education Deputy Minister Nandimithra ekanayake extended his support to the Common opposition a short while ago.

The Deputy Minister has handed over his letter of resignation this morning. He made this announcement addressing a press conference that was also attended by former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and Parliamentarian Arjuna Ranatunga.

Ekanayake said he would extend his support to Common Candidate of the opposition Maithripala Sirisena at the forthcoming presidential election.

Ekanayake is the 26th MP to defect from the ruling coalition following the announcement of then presidential election.

The Higher Education Deputy Minister was known as a staunch supporter of former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga.