The Eksath Jathika Bhikku Peramuna today revealed that close relatives of six leading politicians including the husband of a Minister, sons of a Minister and a Deputy Minister were to contest the forthcoming provincial council elections despite assurances given by the ruling UPFA that relatives of politicos would not be allowed to contest this time.

Addressing a press conference in Colombo its General Secretary Ven. Thiniyawala Palitha Thera requested the people of the North Central, Sabaragamuwa and Eastern Provinces not to vote for relatives of politicians contesting the upcoming elections.

The Ven. Thera said this was a disturbing trend as it would be a case of securing wealth and power for the families of these politicians rather than serving the people. “This would also lead to widespread corruption,” he said. (Yohan Perera)