Election Chief's special statement regarding Prez. Poll declaration

COLOMBO (News1st); Chairman of the Election Commission R.M.A.L. Rathnayake said measures will be taken to send the 2024 Presidential Election proclamation to the Department of Government Printing tomorrow.

He said it will include the nomination date, the location at which nominations will be accepted, and the election date.

He said the most suitable and first possible date after September 17 was selected as the election date.

Accordingly, Rathnayake said the Presidential Election will be announced tomorrow, but refused to comment on whether the election will be at the start or end of September.

When inquired about the delay in the announcement and a possible influence from the government, the Elections Chief said there was no influence, adding that the NEC is acting in line with the Constitution and the Presidential Election Act. 

He said many factions have expressed various views and raised allegations against the Election Commission, adding however that following the election proclamation everyone will see that the Commission followed due procedure.

When questioned if an IGP was necessary to conduct the Presidential Election, Rathnayake said there is no IGP at present, however, adding an Acting IGP or a relevant head will be appointed in the future. 

He added that the NEC will continue the election process with the relevant official, and is coordinating with the DIG in charge of election activities at present.