Harin Fernando arrested for violating election laws

Former Minister Harin Fernando was arrested today by the Badulla Police for participating in a parade during the silent period leading up to the 2024 Parliamentary Election.  

He is due to be produced in courts.

The parade, held in Badulla Town close to election day, escalated into a heated confrontation between Fernando and the police.

During the exchange, the former Parliamentarian removed his t-shirt in protest.  

Mr. Fernando's  statement regarding the incident was recorded 

On November 11, tensions arose in Badulla when the police attempted to halt political campaigning by Mr. Fernando’s supporters. The supporters, along with him, were wearing t-shirts resembling Lionel Messi’s football jersey, featuring the number ‘10’.

Meanwhile, Mr. Fernando addressing the media after recording a statement with the Badulla Police today, criticized the lack of action against National Peoples’ Power (NPP) supporters who allegedly campaigned during the silent period for the 2024 Parliamentary Election, in violation of election laws. 

Displaying photographs of NPP supporters in red t-shirts, Fernando argued that his own t-shirt did not feature his party’s ‘gas cylinder’ symbol or any reference to his candidacy, including the number ‘10’.  

Criticizing the authorities, Mr. Fernando claimed that the new government was resorting to outdated political tactics and applying a different standard in his case. 

He further disclosed that although he was asked to record a statement, no specific date was provided, prompting him to voluntarily appear at the police station today.