The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has issued a significant ruling, ordering the immediate organization of provincial government polls, following a determination that the President violated the fundamental human rights of former members of the Election Commission and the Minister of Finance by failing to hold local government elections as required on March 9 of the previous year.
The decision was delivered by a five-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya, alongside Justices Vijith Malalgoda, Murdu Fernando, Gamini Amarasekara, and Yasanta Kodagoda. The ruling was made in response to fundamental rights petitions filed by the Samagi Jana Balawegaya, the National Jana Balawegaya, the Alternative Policy Center, and the Paffrel Institute. These petitions argued that the government’s delay in conducting the elections violated the democratic rights of the citizens.
In their ruling, the Supreme Court emphasized the importance of adhering to the constitutional and legal timelines for holding elections, which are vital to maintaining the democratic fabric of the nation. The Court directed the Election Commission to expedite the process and ensure that the provincial government polls are held as soon as possible.
This decision marks a crucial step in restoring the electoral process in Sri Lanka, ensuring that the citizens’ right to vote is upheld. The ruling also serves as a reminder of the judiciary’s role in safeguarding democratic principles and holding the government accountable for upholding the rule of law.
The Election Commission is now under pressure to swiftly organize the elections, which have been delayed for over a year, sparking concerns about the erosion of democratic governance in the country. The Supreme Court’s order is expected to pave the way for the long-awaited provincial government elections, providing the electorate with an opportunity to choose their local representatives.
