UNP to launch new alliance in May

<p>The United National Party (UNP) is to launch a new political alliance on May 1, the minister, Rajitha Senaratne told Daily Mirror.&nbsp;</p> <p>The new alliance will be known as the 'Democratic National Alliance (DNA)' with a ten member council, including ministers Patali Champika Ranawaka, Rauff Hakeem, Palani Digambaram, Mano Ganeshan, Rishad Bathiudeen and Arjuna Ranatunga, Senaratne said.&nbsp;</p> <p>“The 10-member leadership council will be chaired by UNP Leader and Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe,” he added.&nbsp;</p> <p>The news comes as the UNP on Friday sought permission from the Speaker of parliament to form a national government.&nbsp;</p> <p>The proposal has been opposed by the president, Maithripala Sirisena and the SLFP.&nbsp;</p>