TISL to monitor misuse of State property during presidential election 2015

Monday, 1 December 2014 00:30 -     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has commenced its Program to Protect Public Resources (PPPR) which monitors and investigates abuse and misuse of public property by political parties, candidates, officials and public institutions during the forthcoming presidential election 2015. TISL’s present initiative is a continuation of the election monitoring activities conducted during the general elections, the presidential elections and provincial elections since 2001. The objective of the program is to prevent the misuse of public resources such as Government vehicles (e.g. SLTB buses, Ministry vehicles), public buildings (e.g. schools and Government), public officials and State funds. Furthermore, TISL will pay special attention to the conduct of public officials in election campaigning and take necessary legal action against when required. TISL has already deployed a comprehensive team of observers who will be operating from Colombo as well from all the electoral districts. The information collected will be submitted to the Election Commissioner for remedial measures and will also be issued to the public through mainstream media. An election is key component of an active democracy and an integral pillar of the national integrity system. The validity of the electoral process depends on the commitment of the relevant officials, especially those on duty on the polling day. TISL strongly believes that all officials on election duty carry out their duties to the highest standards of integrity despite political pressure and intimidation and commends the efforts of these officers. TISL’s Shelter for Integrity, an Advocacy and Legal Advice Centre (ALAC) will conduct a special program to assist public officials who are willing to stand against malpractices and ensure the integrity of the forthcoming presidential election. The Shelter for Integrity provides legal advice and guidance to those willing to fight against corruption and administrative malpractices. The centre will also assist voters to seek either legal or administrative redresses against their grievances, if any, during the forthcoming presidential elections. Large-scale use of public resources has already been reported in the days preceding the proclamation of an election. TISL urges the public to be vigilant of such misuse and challenges to integrity of the electoral process and request them to send all relevant information on the misuse of public resources during the election campaigning period to TISL, 183/5, High Level Road, Colombo 6. (Tele. 0114369781/ 0115627432, Fax 0112514588).

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