• If funds are not adequate, funds will be requested   

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The Election Commission is striving to conduct the upcoming Presidential Election within the allocated budget of Rs 10 billion, despite the number of candidates having now reached 30, said Election Commission Chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake.   Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Ratnayake said, “It’s premature to predict whether the allocated funds will be exceeded. However, if the funds are not adequate, we will be compelled to request additional funds.”   

Meanwhile, sources within the Election Commission indicated concern over the increasing number of candidates, describing the situation where every Tom, Dick, and Harry is contesting the election despite their certain defeat.   

Given the current regulations, the Commission is unable to restrict the number of candidates, but they will consider this issue for future elections.   

Meanwhile, the Finance Ministry has assured that it is prepared to allocate funds based on the estimates presented by the Election Commission in light of the rising number of candidates.   
Finance State Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya stated, “If the number of candidates becomes too large for the ballot paper, an extension may be needed. This could lead to an increase in the number of ballot boxes and an additional cost of about Rs 100 million per candidate. However, preparations are being made to fund the submitted estimates.”