13 July 2024 12:00 am Views - 24
By Sheain Fernandopulle
A significant number of MPs from the opposition have requested the Election Commission to expedite the forthcoming Presidential Election, citing concerns over potential attempts to delay the polls.
Led by prominent figures within the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and independent opposition MPs, the coalition of parliamentarians has underscored the critical need for the election to be conducted at the earliest feasible date.
In a joint letter addressed to the Election Commission, the MPs expressed apprehension about purported efforts by the current government to postpone the scheduled 2024 Presidential Election.
Meanwhile, a spokesman from the Commission confirmed that the letter was received by the Commission. “The commission officials will discuss its contents and communicate with the concerned parties accordingly,” he told Daily Mirror.
The official request comes against the backdrop of two Fundamental Rights petitions filed in the past two weeks seeking to halt the conduct of the Presidential Election by the Election Commission. While the Supreme Court has dismissed one of these petitions, the fate of the other remains pending, as it was filed as recently as yesterday.