UNP led alliance has already laid their foundation?

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Speaking at a media briefing convened at Temple Trees today, Minister Rajitha Senaratne spoke on the proposed UNP led Alliance. Rajitha Senaratne that the constitution of the alliance was discussed at a meeting at Temple Trees. He noted that the discussion was held among Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Ministers Sajith Premadasa and Ravi Karunanayake and other leaders of the alliance. He added that following the discussion, Sajith Premadasa's faction presented the draft and consequently he himself presented the final draft prepared by them to the party leaders and all agreed unanimously. He went on to note that the office of the General Secretary of the alliance would be nominated by the UNP and approved by the Leadership Council. He added that the location of the office of the alliance was discussed as well. He added that alliance organizers can be appointed for each electorate with the agreement of the UNP and it was agreed that the composition of the Leadership Council would be in line with the provisions in the constitution. He shared that a committee chaired by himself was appointed on the party policies. The members of the committee would be Rajitha Senaratne, Champika Ranawaka, Mano Ganesan, Nizam Kariapper, Rishad Bathiudeen, UNP Chairman Kabir Hashim and UNP General Secretary Akila Kariyawasam. He revealed that candidate was also discussed, however they decided not to come up with a candidate hastily. Journalist: "Why is Ranil Wickremesinghe not offering the presidential candidacy to himself at this instance? Is he not qualified for it?" He responded that there were few in the party who strongly believe that Ranil Wickremesinghe must contest. He explained that in fact it was not for the love of the leader and they wanted him to lose as he would lose control over the party. Journalist: "So you also believe that Ranil Wickremesinghe cannot win?" Minister responded that this was before. Journalist: "So why not select Ranil Wickremesinghe now?"