TISL raises concerns on usage of helicopters for political activities in run-up to poll

Election monitor Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has raised concerns on the usage of helicopters owned by Sri Lanka Air Force to transport politicians to election rallies in the run-up to the presidential poll.

Issuing a statement, TISL said that this could amount to a violation of election laws as released through a gazette by the National Election Commission.

The gazette states that “All Secretaries of Ministries / Heads of Departments should ensure that public funds are not utilized for the use of airplanes or helicopters or other vehicles for political propaganda activities.” 

Accordingly, TISL urged the relevant authorities including the Air Force to ensure that the laws are followed.

“If these services have been paid for, the ability of certain candidates to procure such services raises questions around the financing of their campaigns," TISL Executive Director Asoka Obeyesekere said.

He called upon presidential candidates to disclose their information on campaign financing to ensure that state resources have not been misused.