Defence Ministry influences LG members: Champika

Local politicians of the Jathika Hela Urumaya had been influenced by Defence Ministry and that they had been unable to attend Pradeshiya Sabha and Urban Councils or carry out their election campaign, General Secretary of the Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU) Parliamentarian Champika Ranawaka charged today.

“Our local politicians have been unable to attend Pradeshiya Sabha and Urban Councils or engage in election campaign due to the influences of Defence Ministry. The Elections Commissioner should intervene and make sure that a free and fair election is held,” he said.

“Otherwise, people will lose their faith in this independent institution and the country will fall into chaos again,” Mr. Ranawaka said.

Mr. Ranawaka said it was up to the Elections Commissioner to take steps to stop the use of State media and other institutions for the President’s election campaign and make sure that everyone got equal opportunities.

“The State media are campaigning for President Rajapaksa by insulting and slinging mud at opposition candidates. Funds and employees of State institutions such as Road Development Authority, Economic Development Ministry and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation are being used for election campaign,” Mr. Ranawaka told media during a demonstration outside the Election Secretariat office today. (Ajith Siriwardana)

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