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Army chief bans party politics for troops
View(s):Army Commander Crishanthe de Silva yesterday banned army personnel from getting involved in any form of election campaigning. The directive applies to all ranks including those in the volunteer force while those violating it would face disciplinary action, Military Spokesman Jayanath Jayaweera told the Sunday Times.
The directive came following instructions from the Defence Ministry after reports that army personnel were involved in campaigns of certain candidates with some of them working in political offices.
The ban also prevents the use of internet or social media to influence the voters for or against any political party or candidate.
Under the directive, army personnel cannot take part in any meetings, rallies, campaigns or discussions held by a political party or for political purposes.
They cannot publish or distribute any political literature or propaganda material. Display of a political sign, banner, poster, sticker or any other similar device on their private or official vehicle or at the residence or quarters has also been prohibited.
Performing any clerical or other function for a political party or candidate during a campaign, on the day of an election or after an election is also banned. The directive further says Army personnel cannot discuss any matter relating to a political question or express a political opinion, during a speech or conversation at a public gathering of any nature.
In the event, any army person is required to represent the army in official capacity at any political event, prior approval is needed from the Army Commander.