Former Minister Rishad writes to Election Commission

(FASTNEWS | COLOMBO) – Leader of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC), former Minister Rishad Bathiudeen today (19) requested that the date of the forthcoming General Election should not be announced until the concerned-sectors such as health and security deliver a firm stand on the COVID-19.

ACMCs Stand with regard to the Date of General Elections 2020. Eradicate Covid-19, then go for the elections!! pic.twitter.com/JBs8xEpIqU

— Rishad Bathiudeen (@rbathiudeen) April 19, 2020

In a letter to the Chairman of the Election Commission (EC) Mahinda Deshapriya, the former Minister stated that “Although it was stated by few, that the recovery rate patients of COVID-19 in Sri Lanka is at a considerable level, it is a real fact that still the number of admission of COVID-19 patients is at a moderate level.

“Hence, the date of the General Elections should not be announced until the Officers of all concerned sectors such as health, security, etc. deliver a firm stand on the fact that curfew could be lifted and people could move free around the island,” the former Minister stressed.

“In this context, it would be highly appreciated if a meeting is convened at the earliest with all active Political Parties and Officials concerned in order discuss further on this matter, Bathiudeen said, adding that “Until then, the announcement of the date of commencement of the Elections should be halted.”