MPs and other candidates to be provided secuity

The security of former parliamentarians will be restored concerning the grave threat posed to their lives in the aftermath of the Kotahena shooting which killed two UNP supporters and injured 12 others, the police said.

Police Spokesman Ruwan Gunasekara said Police Chief N K Illangakoon is expected to restore the security of more than 40 former MPs who have made a special request from the Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya during the weekend.

Based on a request made by Mr. Deshapriya the Police Chief, the security provided to more than 40 former MPs is expected to be restored with two police constables from the Ministerial Security Division being assigned to each of them.

The MPs' security was removed at the close of nominations.

At a meeting with Elections Commissioner the party representatives took a collective decision on the need to restore the security provided to former MPs and to the other candidates who are contesting the election.

However, Cabinet and Non-Cabinet Ministers will continue to have their security, regardless or whether they are contesting or not. (Kurulu Koojana Kariyakarawana)