The 2024 Presidential Election has recorded a high postal voting turnout, with more than 80% of eligible postal voters casting their ballots over the past two days, Deputy Postmaster General Rajitha Ranasinghe confirmed during a press briefing today (06).
Ranasinghe noted that a substantial portion of the 712,319 registered postal voters had already utilized their voting rights, with the majority voting on the first two days of the postal voting period. “The number of postal packs received by post offices shows that a significant number of votes were cast, reflecting a positive turnout,” he said.
The Election Commission had set up postal voting facilities for staff working in District Secretariat Offices, Election Commission Offices, and law enforcement agencies, including police stations, Special Task Force (STF) camps, and VIP security divisions. Personnel from the three armed forces and other government institutions were also given the opportunity to vote over the past two days.
For those who were unable to vote during the initial three-day period, the Election Commission has announced an extended voting opportunity. Postal voters can still cast their ballots at their respective District Secretariat on either September 11 or 12.
The strong turnout underscores the importance of this year’s election, with postal voters being among the first to make their voices heard ahead of the general election.