High level public servants violating election law: UNP to EC

The United National Party (UNP) Leadership Council in a written complaint today urged Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya to stop high profile public servants from participating at political meetings.

Mr. Jauasuriya who handed over the complaint said a high level public servant was participating at UPFA political meetings and was thus violating the Constitution and election laws. He said some public servants were even being unduly influenced by some ruling party politicians.

Mr. Jayasuriya said such incidents had taken place at the previous provincial council elections when a candidate threatened a government agent who was at a counting center.

He said the use of state resources particularly helicopters was evident at this election as well. Mr. Jayasuriya said there was nothing wrong in using air force helicopters if they were hired by paying the necessary charges.

“The problem is that some candidates are using air force helicopters without making the necessary payments,” he said.

Mr. Jayasuriya said the UNP had specifically requested the polls chief to ensure a free and fair election.

UNP General Secretary and LC member Tissa Attanayake said Mr. Deshapriya admitted that some public servants were participating in election work while some candidates were using state resources.

Mr. Deshapriya assured the UNP leadership council that he would do all within his power to stop election law violations.

UNP Colombo District MP and LC member Ravi Karunanayake also joined Mr. Jayasuriya and Mr. Attanayake at the meeting with Mr. Deshapriya. (Yohan Perera)