"I am now taking over duties as the prime minister. Next step will be to name the Cabinet of Ministers.
“Unfortunately within the past couple of weeks the country’s journey forward and the development launched by his government came to a halt. The first thing we will look to achieve is to restore of normalcy in the country and we will kick start development work.
“My government will strive to provide the people with better living conditions both economically and socially" he said addressing the UNP supporters after he took oaths on 16 December.
Later in his Twitter @RW_UNP he said: "Today marks a victory not for myself or for the UNP. It is a victory for Sri Lanka’s democratic institutions and the sovereignty of our citizens. I thank everyone who stood firm in defending the constitution and ensuring the triumph of democracy."