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Mr. Musthapha, who was billed to resign from his portfolio and join the platform of the common opposition, left the country on Emirates Flight EK 348 at 2.45 p.m. but the reasons for his departure are unknown. He is scheduled to return on Monday December 29. Despite a warrant issued for his arrest, controversial Deputy Minister Muthuhettigama left the country at 12.51 a.m. on Sri Lankan Airlines flight number UL 306, while Mr. Gunawardena left at 9.50 a.m. on Emirate Airlines flight number EK 651.