23 candidates haven’t held a meeting yet

• Reports of three candidates missing not a concern, says EC
• Says a police complaint can be lodged if they have gone missing

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

In the wake of recent reports of three presidential candidates being untraced, the Election Commission said it was not a concern to them.  

Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES) Manjula Gajanayake, recently expressed concerns about three presidential candidates who have submitted their nominations and have almost gone missing.

According to him, out of the 38 candidates, only 15 have organized meetings.

Speaking to Daily Mirror, Election Commission Chairman R. M. A. L. Rathnayake said it was none of their business as the trio have submitted nominations.   

“If they have gone missing, a police complaint can be lodged. The Election Commission has nothing to do with it.”   

Moreover, commenting on the candidates who have not held a meeting, the Chairman said it is up to them to decide whether to organize a meeting or not. “Again, it is none of our business,” he added.   

What do presidential candidates get for free?

Presidential candidates receive several benefits, including:

• 45 minutes of free air time from government media institutions   
• Free postage (allowing candidates to send letters to voters at no cost)   
• Security based on a threat assessment