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Election Commission slams election delay moves
- EC not officially informed about referendum
- PAFFREL vows legal action if polls are postponed
By Sheain Fernandopulle
The Election Commission has expressed strong dismay over any attempts to delay the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections, insisting they proceed as scheduled.
Speaking to Daily Mirror, the Election Commission Chief R.M.A.L. Ratnayake said that the stance of the Commission has already been conveyed to the government that the presidential election should be held between September 17 and October 16 while the parliamentary election is slated for 2025.
“We are fully geared for the upcoming presidential election as funds have already been allocated,” he said. Further, he said presidential election will be declared between the end of July and the early part of August. In response to the recent statement by the United National Party (UNP) headed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe where it was suggested holding a referendum to extend the term of the President and Parliament for two more years, the Chairman stated that they had not been informed about holding a referendum.
“The Constitution clearly outlines the provisions for holding a referendum. However, it should not coincide with an election,” he highlighted.
In a strong rebuke, the People’s Action for Free & Fair Elections (PAFFREL) warned they would take legal action against any attempts to delay the elections.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the presidential election will definitely be held in the future and financial allocations have already been allocated for it. While joining the “What’s New” workshop held at the President’s office on legal reform with young legal professionals, the President said that none of the candidates aspiring to run in the presidential election have announced their intention to abolish the executive powers associated with the position. The President highlighted the dual nature of the executive presidential system, noting its advantages and disadvantages. He emphasized that the executive power vested in the presidency played a pivotal role in the economic development of Sri Lanka and the resolution of the 30-year war. President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that none of the candidates aspiring to run in the presidential election have announced their intention to abolish the executive powers associated with the position. President Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of enacting laws that render the President accountable to Parliament. He noted the decentralization of certain executive powers to Provincial Councils and Parliamentary Oversight Committees, highlighting forthcoming divisions in this regard. Moreover, President Wickremesinghe affirmed the inevitability of future Presidential elections, stating that financial provisions for this purpose have already been allocated. |
He confirmed this to Daily Mirror saying that he would shed light on his statement. |
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