It is filed as case no. 279/15 by Nawa Samasamaja Party candidate, lawyer Senaka Perera.

Lawyer Lakshan Dias appears for the petitioner, instructed by lawyer Thushara Daskon.

Rajapaksa’s candidature denies a level playing ground for the other 6,150 candidates at the election, said lawyer Daskon.

He told Sri Lanka Mirror that it was unethical for Rajapaksa to use his privileges, official status, vehicles, residence and protection, and such facilities should be withdrawn from him.

Daskon said a stay order would be sought on July 20.