EC Chief acknowledges citizens’ demands for elections

• Says there is a desire for elections among people
• Claims there is change in the will of public due to recent events
• Warns people will react in a manner harmful to society if they are not allowed to voice their will

Election Commission of Sri Lanka Chairman Nimal Punchihewa yesterday acknowledged there is a growing demand from the country’s citizens for an election.

“There is a noticeable desire for elections among the people,” he said. Punchihewa said due to recent events it appears there has been a change in the will of the public.

The Chairman said therefore the people must be given the opportunity to voice their mandate through an election.

“If not, the people’s voice will be expressed in a manner which can be harmful to the society,” he warned.

The Chairman also expressed his belief, the possibility of obtaining necessary funds for polls due to the current favourable turn of the country’s situation.

He said the commission is prepared to hold an election at any given moment. Punchihewa revealed the commission is continuing its preparation for an election despite the many obstacles.

“We have made initial preparations. We have completed training election officials and preparing of facilities for polling stations,” he said.

Addressing the calls to invalidate the nominations submitting for the delayed local Government polls, Punchihewa said this could lead to some wastage of funds spent on the election.