Ravi’s crisis beyond EC’s control

• EC has no involvement in party’s internal matters
• The nomination has sparked controversy, as it was not a unanimous decision  

By Sheain Fernandopulle   

The controversy surrounding the nomination of Ravi Karunanayake as an MP on the National List representing the New Democratic Front (NDF) is beyond the control of the Election Commission, according to its chairman.   

 Speaking to the Daily Mirror, Commission Chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake stated that the Commission had fulfilled its duty by gazetting the nomination after it was officially submitted.   
 “Once the National List nomination is officially handed over by the party secretary, the Commission considers it official and acts accordingly,” he explained. “We have no involvement in the party’s internal matters,” he added.   

 He further emphasized that the gazette notification cannot be revoked under any circumstances.   

NDF Secretary Shyamala Perera had informed the Election Commission in writing of Ravi Karunanayake’s nomination as an MP on the National List. However, the nomination has sparked controversy, as it was not a unanimous decision.