Children being used for canvassing raises eyebrows

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

As the election season heats up, the involvement of children in political campaigns has sparked serious concerns with election monitors calling for an end to such activities.  

According to Manjula Gajanayake, Executive Director of Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES), videos and photos are circulating on social media where minors canvassing for political parties.  

As such, the election monitors urge political parties to refrain from getting children involved in the canvassing.  

Commenting on the matter, Commissioner General of Elections Saman Sri Ratnayake said the commission had also received multiple complaints of such incidents.  

“The National Child Protection Authority should play a critical role in addressing these concerns,” Ratnayake noted.