• Will only intervene if spl. request made

The Election Commission (EC) has clarified that while it does not have a direct role in the security of Presidential candidates, it will however make some intervention upon receiving a special request.

The Police recently stated that several Presidential candidates have refused the assignment of security personnel amidst ongoing threats to the safety of some of them.

When contacted by The Daily Morning and queried as to whether the EC plays any role with regard to the security of Presidential candidates, EC Chairperson R.M.A.L. Rathnayake said that they do not have a direct role in the matter. "A committee was appointed by the Government to make decisions pertaining to the candidates` security. That committee is committed to performing that particular task. So, they will make the necessary arrangements." 

He also said that the EC would make some intervention if someone makes a request to do so. "If there is any request for us to intervene, we will step in. However, we don’t receive any complaints with regard to the candidates` security. They are being lodged with the Police."

 The Police Media Spokesperson, Deputy Inspector General of Police Nihal Thalduwa said on Tuesday (10) that while the Police are prepared to provide security for Presidential candidates, several have declined such protection. However, he noted that if candidates request security, the Police will assign officers to guard them. He did not disclose the number of Police officers assigned for this purpose but acknowledged that several Presidential candidates have received threats.