Can the cabinet have more than 30 ministers?

Colombo (News1st) - Will the number of cabinet ministerial positions increase? According to the United National Party, 30 cabinet ministers excluding the President and the Prime minister can be appointed. However, the UPFA has a different view on this matter. John Amarathunga assumed duties at the Ministry of Wildlife today, a ministerial portfolio which was previously held by Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka. Speaking at the occasion Min. Amaratunga noted that he could not state whether his appointment is temporary or permanent as it was MP Fonseka who was to be appointed to the position. He noted that this has been delayed due to reasons which are unclear to him adding that everything will be resolved with the President's consent. Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka speaking to the media stated that there are some who claim that his title as field marshal disqualifies him from holding office as a Minister. He noted that these claims are completely incorrect and that the President is obliged to appoint any individual put forward by the PM as a minister. He noted that if this is not done, they would seek the assistance of the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, Leader of the House Lakshman Kiriella has reiterated that the UNP's stance that 30 members can be appointed to the cabinet excluding the President and the Prime Minister. UPFA MP Rohitha Abeywgunawardene speaking to the media on the matter stated that they have appointed non-cabinet ministers to console those who did not receive ministerial positions. He noted that the Constitution clearly states that the cabinet can only exceed 30 members in case of a national Government. The MP noted that they would not allow the UNP to play games with the cabinet adding that they are prepared to go to court to defend it. The MP also noted that they are also preparing legal action against PM Ranil Wickremesinghe for being a shareholder of the Wijeywardene group and against a number of other ruling party members for obtaining dual citizenship.