President assures free and fair election under strict health guidelines

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa assured to create the background to hold a free and fair election while giving priority to the health protection of the people.

The Ministry of Health has issued recommendations for the conduct of election amidst COVID – 19 pandemic. This will be recorded as the first election to be held under such circumstances. As such, the Government will extend its fullest cooperation to the Elections Commission to make the election process a success while adhering to health guidelines.

This was stated by the President during a meeting he had with the Chairman and the members of the Elections Commission at the Presidential Secretariat today.

According to the Presidential Secretariat, the government took all possible measures to control the spread of COVID – 19 virus. This operation was not aimed at elections but to secure the wellbeing of the people of this country said the President adding that the prevention mechanism will continue for several months. The election can be held without any obstacle  if the public is aware of the situation.

Initial preparations have been completed and the contribution of all political parties and officials and the members of the security forces will be essential for the process, Chairman of the Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya said.

The Chairman pointed out the importance of establishing a legal basis to ensure compulsory participation of public officials in election duties. He was of the view that these regulations should be incorporated into the Establishment Code. When all the partners act in a responsible manner during election rallies and house –to- house campaigns, an effective election can be held, he said.

The Chairman highlighted the importance of the necessity of declaring future COVID – 19 prevention recommendations through a gazette notification. President agreed to provide required assistance in the event of lack of space facilities while conducting the election adhering to health instructions. Mr. Deshapriya pointed out the need of providing transportation facilities to those who will leave for their home towns from July 31st and return after the election.

The other members of the Election Commission, Prof. Ratnajeevan Hoole and N.J. Abeysekara, Secretary of the Election Commission H. M. T. D. Herath , Secretary to the President P.B. Jayasundera, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance S.R. Attygalle, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration,  J.J. Rathnasiri, Secretary to Health Ministry Major General (Retired) Dr. Sanjeewa Munasinghe  participated in this meeting.