State Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said the SLPP joined hands with the SLFP and not with Maithripala Sirisena.

Addressing a press conference in Colombo, Yapa said Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa should be given the credit for uniting many groups with diverse opinions.

Yapa also pointed out that the SLPP was the senior partner in the alliance.

"Decisions relating to the alliance will be made by the party leaders collectively, respecting all viewpoints," he added.

"Many SLPP members started their political journey with the SLFP. So, we can work together without a problem," he said.