The Election Commission has announced that since the General Certificate of Education (G.C.E.) Ordinary Level Examination will be held on the same days as the nomination period for the 2025 Local Government Elections, all candidates submitting nominations must strictly ensure that they do not cause any disruption to students sitting for the exam.
Speaking to the media this afternoon (March 14), the Chairman of the Election Commission, Mr. R.M.A.L. Ratnayake, made this announcement.
He further emphasized that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has been informed of this matter and that any candidate who violates these instructions will face strict legal action.
Additionally, he stated that the acceptance of nominations will close at 12 noon on March 20, and any form of parade, motorcade, or public assembly will be prohibited by law after this deadline.
Meanwhile, as the G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination is scheduled from March 17 to March 26, candidates must ensure that they do not cause any inconvenience to students appearing for the examination during this period.
Key Announcements from the Election Commission
- The 2025 Local Government Elections will commence at 8:30 AM on Monday, March 17 at the Returning Officers’ offices in all 25 districts.
- Nominations will be accepted until 12 noon on March 20, while deposit payments will be accepted until 12 noon on March 19.
- After the nomination deadline on March 20 at 12 noon, objections to nomination papers will be accepted from 12 noon to 1:30 PM. During this time, representatives authorized to submit nominations may file objections.
- After 1:30 PM on March 20, the Returning Officers will announce the acceptance or rejection of the submitted nominations. Only after this will the official symbols be issued to independent groups.
Restrictions to Prevent Disruptions During the Exam Period
- As the G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination is scheduled from March 17 to March 26, candidates must ensure that their activities do not hinder exam candidates.
- Particular attention should be paid to examination centers located near district secretariats, and candidates must submit their nominations in a manner that does not disrupt students.
- Campaigning near examination centers is strictly prohibited from the date of nomination submission until March 26.
- No processions, motorcades, or public assemblies are allowed after the nomination deadline of 12 noon on March 20. The IGP has confirmed that legal action will be strictly enforced in this regard.
The Election Commission urges all candidates to comply with these regulations to ensure a smooth nomination and election process without interfering with students’ academic performance.
