No legal or financial barriers as of now - EC

Colombo, July 12 (Daily Mirror) - Amidst concerns raised by various parties about the Election Commission’s ability to conduct the impending Presidential election due to legal and financial obstacles, Election Commission chairman R.M.A.L. Rathnayake has emphasized that currently there are no such barriers.

“The EC is fully equipped with the relevant funds and notified of legal clearance enabling us to proceed with the election,” the election chief told Daily Mirror.

He said they had had discussions with the officials from law enforcement authorities, Department of Government Printing, and other relevant institutions to ensure a smooth conduct of the election.

“Next week on (July 17), the Finance Ministry officials will be meeting us to discuss and brief matters pertaining to funds,” Rathnayake added.

He reiterated that there are currently no legal or financial obstacles for the EC.

Rathnayake further stated that the EC is empowered to declare the Presidential election after July 14.  As such, the declaration is expected at the end of this month, allowing for polling to take place on a day between September 17 and October 17.