More than 150 new political parties seek recognition from EC

The National Elections Commission has received 156 applications from new political parties seeking in the country, its Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said.

Elections Commission Chairman told a media briefing that it would have to scrutinise all applications before the acceptance of nominations for the upcoming Parliamentary Election.

We have also received proposals and recommendations to re-evaluate a number of recognised political parties that have failed to contest or obtain a considerable number of votes at elections. There are 70 political parties at present,” the Chairman said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman said the possible date the General Election could be held was between April 22 and May 4, going by the information that parliament would be dissolved in a week.

Mr. Deshapriya also raised the need to reduce the number of candidates at elections to minimise the excessive expenditure. (Sheain Fernandopulle)