Military seeks details of polling centers in North: CMEV

The Center for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) said that the Army and the Navy in the North are attempting obtain the details of polling centers in Mullaitivu from the Assistant Election Commissioner, a statement said. "The Assistant Election Commissioner of Mullaitivu R Saslaian has reported to CMEV that he was requested to provide details of the polling centers of the Mullaitivu electorate, specifically the number of voters per polling station." Mr Saslaian has reported that two persons from the Navy approached him on January 1st and then again next day approached the Department of Elections, requesting the information. Both occasions the official has refused to provide the information on the basis that he has no authority to disclose such information. The official has informed the Navy personnel that they need a letter of authorization from the Election Commissioner to obtain the information. On January 3rd an unidentified individual had telephoned Mr Saslaian and requested the same information. Subsequently two Army officers have approached Mr Saslaian and stated that Major Mendis had sent them to obtain the said details. Mr Saslaian has denied this request, too. "According to Mr Saslaian, the individuals had stated that the information requested was required for security purposes. He further stated that the information had already been made available to the Police, and that the Army and the Navy are not entitled to receive it unless the Election Commissioner grants written permission." the statement said. CMEV states that it is incongruous for the Army and Navy to request for information for "security purposes". There has been no public statement by any of the officials involved that the Army and Navy have been requested to support the Police to provide security on Election Day.