Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya found herself at the center of a political firestorm today after being accused of encouraging her party supporters to continue campaigning during the election’s legally mandated silent period.
Facing a wave of criticism, the Prime Minister responded firmly after casting her vote, stating, “I did not say to break the election laws… I said to end the campaigning.” Emphasizing her position, she declared, “I had no intention of violating the election laws. I said it clearly and officially that our campaigning should end, it should end.”
Despite her defense, the pressure continues to mount. Watchdog organization PAFFREL has submitted a formal letter to the Election Commission, accusing the Prime Minister of aiding and abetting illegal campaign activity. According to the letter, her alleged actions constitute a serious breach, with potential to influence the outcome of the election and undermine its fairness.
But the Prime Minister remained unshaken. “If there was a violation of my laws, the Election Commission would take action, no matter who the Prime Minister is. That applies to me too. I respect that and I am happy,” she stated.
Drawing a stark contrast between past political scandals and the current scrutiny, she added, “It was not for these kinds of things that allegations were made in the past. Much more serious things happened. I think the fact that the people are aware of these things and point out even the slightest mistake is a sign of the political change that has occurred.”
As the Election Commission considers PAFFREL’s request for an investigation, the nation watches closely to see whether this controversy will spark disciplinary action or whether it’s just political noise in an era of heightened public vigilance.
Should the Election Commission intervene, or is this a storm in a teacup?
