National Freedom Front leader and former JVP firebrand Vimal Weerawansa yesterday refused to comment on the resignation of his colleague Tourism Minister Nandana Gunatillake.

NFF Media Secretary Mohamed Muzamil said the party regretted Gunatillake’s leaving but wished him well in his future endeavours.

"We are a democratic party and one has the right to leave the party or join and we will not squabble over matters such as this. Anyone can join us at any time," Muzamil said.

A senior SLFPer said that there was a strong possibility that Gunatillake would join the SLFP and contest the forthcoming parliamentary election.

Asked at a press briefing yesterday whether he would join the SLFP, Gunatillake refused to either confirm or deny speculation.

However, he ruled out the possibility of joining the UNP.