People show confidence with 71% turnout at polls: President

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday said the voter turnout of 71% at the General Election, reflected the confidence that Sri Lankans have in the government’s efforts to control the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am glad to know that today’s all-island voter turnout was nearly 71%. As the first South Asian country to hold general elections amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it reflects the confidence that the people have in our efforts to control this pandemic,” the president tweeted this evening.

President Rajapaksa cast his vote for the General Election 2020 at Sri Vivekaramaya Temple in Pangiriwatta, Nugegoda this morning. First Lady Ayoma Rajapaksa also cast her vote.

Earlier today, the President requested voters to cast their votes without any fear of the COVID-19 pandemic saying that activities at all polling centres have been arranged in line with the guidelines issued by the health authorities. (Lahiru Pothmulla)