PAFFREL voices concerns over cancellation of LG election nominations

Monday, 25 September 2023 02:09 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

PAFFREL Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi

Claims move will incur loss of over Rs. 1 b to State coffers
PAFFREL Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi says turn of events could have far-reaching implications on fiscal stability

The People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL) organisation has raised a red flag over the recent decision to cancel nominations for the forthcoming Local Government (LG) elections.

This move, according to PAFFREL, is anticipated to result in a staggering loss exceeding Rs. 1 billion to the State coffers.

PAFFREL Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi expressed his apprehension, emphasising that such a decision in the midst of an ongoing economic crisis was ill-advised and not in the best interest of the country.

He further pointed out that this turn of events could have far-reaching implications on the country’s fiscal stability.

Hettiarachchi also shed light on the fact that the Election Commission had already allocated substantial funds for the 2023 LG polls. This included budgetary provisions for crucial aspects such as ballot paper printing and logistical arrangements. The cancellation of nominations is expected to throw these pre-allocated resources into uncertainty.

The decision to cancel nominations was reached on 20 September during a meeting of the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Council, and Local Government. The committee’s unanimous agreement stemmed from the recognition of the challenges faced by candidates due to the earlier election postponement.

Critics argue that the substantial financial outlay already made towards the election process could have been utilised more effectively, especially given the current economic climate.

The ramifications of this decision continue to be a subject of intense discussion within political and civic circles.