Police Media Spokesperson Buddhika Manatunga has stated that 13 individuals, including candidates from the last presidential election, have been reported to the courts for failing to comply with the Election Expenditure Regulation Act. He noted that steps have already been taken to initiate legal proceedings against them in the future.
Speaking at a media briefing held in Colombo, Manatunga emphasized that the Election Commission has announced May 6, 2025, as the date for the local government elections. The Sri Lanka Police is making every effort to conduct these elections in a free and fair manner. To achieve this, the police have implemented a special program aimed at enforcing election laws, addressing violations, and providing comprehensive security for election rallies and other public gatherings.
Since the nomination deadline on March 3, only 16 instances of election law violations and acts of violence have been reported over the past 21 days. Manatunga highlighted that this number is currently being observed at a minimal level, which indicates that efforts to maintain law and order are proving effective. As part of the enforcement measures, 32 individuals have been arrested for violating election laws. Among those arrested are 10 candidates and 22 other individuals, all of whom are now under police custody and subject to legal proceedings.
The Sri Lanka Police has firmly stated that strict action will be taken against any violations of election laws or acts of violence during the election period. The authorities have appealed to all stakeholders to provide their fullest cooperation to ensure that the upcoming election is conducted in a peaceful, transparent, and lawful manner.
Furthermore, the Police Spokesperson stressed the importance of adhering to the Election Expenditure Regulation Act. He warned that those who fail to comply with the provisions of this Act will face legal consequences after the election.
Manatunga also reiterated that during the last presidential election, 13 individuals, including candidates, were reported to the courts for not complying with the Election Expenditure Regulation Act, and steps have been taken to initiate legal proceedings against them.
In addition to the presidential election cases, investigations have been launched against 1,239 individuals, including candidates, concerning the parliamentary election. In response, the Sri Lanka Police urges all candidates and their supporters to strictly adhere to the Election Expenditure Regulation Act during the local government election as well.
To enhance security during the upcoming election period, the police have implemented a special program to keep all police stations well-informed. Additionally, arrangements have been made to deploy additional police officers from other stations where necessary to provide sufficient security during campaign meetings and gatherings.
The Sri Lanka Police earnestly requests all candidates, their supporters, and the general public to extend their complete support in ensuring that the upcoming election is free and fair. The objective is to prevent violations of election laws and acts of violence while striving to maintain the low level of violent incidents reported so far. The police remain committed to upholding law and order, ensuring the safety of the public, and preserving the integrity of the election process.
