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Postal voting went smoothly, say polls observers and EC
View(s):Election observers and the Election Commission (EC) have noted that the postal voting for the upcoming election proceeded smoothly over all three days it was conducted.
People’s Action for Free & Fair Elections (PAFFREL) Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi said that a high percentage of voters had cast their ballots.He said 15 minor incidents were reported, but none could be considered as election-related violence.
Institute of Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES) Executive Director Manjula Gajanayake praised the proceedings of the first day of postal voting, calling it an example for the entire election process.
Air Force personnel casting their vote at Air Force headquarters, Pelawatte. Pic by Eshan Fernando
He said some minor incidents were reported from the Muttur area. He also noted that, unlike in previous elections, where voters frequently shared their choices on social media, such behaviour was less prevalent this time. However, he expressed concern over the continued presence of hate speech and misinformation on social media. He was hopeful that these issues would not impact the electoral process.
The postal voting for the 2024 presidential election officially began on September 4.
According to the EC, postal voting is available to government employees, including district secretariat officers, Eelection Ccommission officials, Senior DIGs, DIGs, police officers, Special Task Force (STF) personnel, and VIP Security Division personnel. It is also available for officers of the tri-forces and staff of other government institutions.They were able to cast their votes at district secretariats, police stations, army camps and other designated places.
Former presidents' security division personnel cast their vote. Pic by Lahiru Harshana
The Election Commissioner General Saman Sri Ratnayake also announced that those who were unable to vote on the scheduled would be able to do so on September 11 and 12 at District Secretariat offices. This provision will be available in all 25 districts, ensuring that all eligible postal voters can cast their ballots in the presence of a certifying officer appointed by the EC, Mr. Ratnayake added.
A total of 712,321 voters were eligible for postal voting. Kurunegala District had the highest number with 76,977, and Mullaitivu District the lowest, with 3,566. In the Colombo district, 35,636 were eligible for postal voting.
Army personnel at BMICH. Pic by Akila Jayawardena
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