In a press conference called in Election Secretariat, Election Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya said, by postponing Elections people’ s democratic rights are denied. Local Government Election cannot be held in this year as delimitation work cannot be completed before 31st December 2016. However, he said this is a sad situation . He suggested Local Government Election will most probably be held in April next year. In addition, Election for three Provincial Councils will also be held.
In the East Eravur town council Kattankudy town Council governing period had lapsed in March 2013. No Election were held for this council since March 2008.
At the same time in the North Election for Karaithuraipattu, and Kudijiruppu Pradhesha Saba Election were not held. He requested the politicians and journalists not to make adverse comments on Election Commission for their narrow political objectives. Election Commission can act only within the powers vested with it by the country’s Constitution. As the Local Government Election is dragging on various comments were made on Election Commission. Election Commission cannot decide the date of the Election. It has to be decided by the respective Minister or Parliament or Judicial service.
Once delimitation report is finalized, Election will be announced. Already 300 million had been allocated for this purpose. Selection of officers to be assigned for Local Government Election will be done in upcoming weeks. In short Election Department is ready to conduct Elections once noticed.
