The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) has finally agreed to nominate former President Mahinda Rajapaksa as a candidate at the August 17 general election under the betel symbol, a party leader said.

UPFA General Secretary Susil Premajayantha, SLFP General Secretary Anura Priyadarshana Yapa and Opposition Leader Nimal Siripala de Silva communicated the President’s message to Mr. Rajapaksa today in Kandy. Mr. Rajapaksa agreed to reach a settlement on this matter with the President. (Kelum Bandara)