The main Parliamentary Opposition, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), expressed disapproval of the Government’s recent decision to consider the rescinding of the nominations submitted for the Local Government (LG) elections. It argues that the Government is in no position to take such a decision in a legitimate manner.

“How can the Cabinet of Ministers decide to call or rescind nominations in a country where a democratic process prevails and an independent and free Election Commission (EC) exists?,” addressing the media at a press briefing, SJB National Organiser and Parliamentarian Tissa Attanayake questioned, opining that it is a decision that should be taken by the EC.

He added: “The elections have been postponed not because the EC wants such, or because of a natural or unavoidable reason. It is clear that the elections were postponed because the Government intentionally refrained from providing funds for the elections due to the fear of the results of the polls. The outcome is that the LG elections having been postponed for over a year.”

Noting that the most supreme right given to the people by the Constitution is the right to cast a vote, he said that the Cabinet cannot deprive the people of the universal franchise. Speaking of LG elections – which have not been held for years despite being required – he claimed that the Government has on purpose violated the people’s right to enjoy their right to vote. 

“We consider it a violation of the Constitution,” he said, adding that the Government should seek the EC’s recommendations and act accordingly.