He has told BBC Sandeshaya that they would contest under the UNP’s ‘elephant’s symbol.

After the election, the alliance would be registered as a party.

Extensive alliance

The groups led by Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thera, Athuraliye Rathana Thera, Sama Samaja Party, Communist Party (alternative) and many other parties have joined the new alliance, said the minister.

He said candidates would be fielded from Colombo, Kalutara, Gampaha, Kandy, Ratnapura, Galle and Matale.

Among the candidates are Rathana Thera, Champika Ranawaka, Arjuna Ranatunga and M.K.D.S. Gunawardena.

Minister Senaratne said they met the president on Friday night and informed him about their decision.

The president’s position with regard to the election would be announced on July 13 or thereafter, he said.