Former finance minister Sarath Amunugama arrived late for the inauguration of President Mahinda Rajapakse today, but quickly got into the swing of things by applauding when the new leader was outlining economic policy.The former minister was seen clapping even when the president pledged to ditch the 2006 budget Amunugama had presented in parliament only 11 days ago.

"I have decided to bring before parliament new budget proposals based on the Mahinda Chintanaya we presented to the people," the president said. "I believe it is necessary to begin my term of office with the people's confidence in me in tact."

Amunugama had made no reference to the "Mahinda Chintanaya" while presenting the budget on November 8. Officials at Rajapakse's office said they could not confirm if Amunugama gets a mention in the new cabinet list.

Amunugama's mentor, former president Chandrika Kumaratunga did not show up at the official inauguration, but issued a statement saying that Rajapakse was in too much of a hurry.

Kumaratunga's office said they planned a ceremony on Wednesday, but it had to be hurriedly advanced.

"In accordance with Mr. Mahinda Rajapakse's request President Kumaratunga directed the relevant authorities to arrange for the planned ceremonial welcome within a short period of one day," her office said in its final statement.

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