Official Election Notice Next Week

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Chairman of the Election Commission said that the official announcement regarding the scheduling of the Presidential Election is expected to be made next week.

He made these comments during this evening's Dawasa program on Sirasa TV.

R.M.A.L Rathnayake, the Chairman of the Election Commission, recently highlighted the traditional practices witnessed during an electoral process. 

Rathnayake said that auspicious times, directions, and other cultural traditions are adhered to by many candidates when submitting their nominations.

The Chairman remarked, "It is essential to respect these longstanding traditions, which is why such factors will be taken into account when calling for nominations."

The Chairman also addressed concerns regarding the election date. 

While the Commission has the authority to declare elections on July 17th, the actual election cannot take place until after September 17th due to the latter being a Poya Day, a day of religious observance in Sri Lanka when elections are prohibited.

Furthermore, the day following Poya Day, September 18th, poses logistical challenges at temples and other venues designated as polling stations, due to increased activity and movement restrictions.

Rathnayake assured the public that the election date would be immediately after September 17th, ensuring it is the most suitable and feasible option. 

The official election notice is expected to be released next week.