Transparency Internat-ional Sri Lanka (TISL) has made an appeal from Election Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya to prevent the use of all types of State property (including civil and military) in a wrongful manner for election purposes. TISL Executive Director S. Ranugge in a letter to Election Commissioner also appealed for the guarantee that all candidates contesting the elections declare their assets and liabilities when they submit their nominations.
Following is the full text from the letter:
Holding an election within a democratic framework provides an excellent opportunity for the public to elect their representatives. In particular, it is a special occasion for the voters in the north who underwent severe hardship during the longstanding conflict. Everyone who respects democracy commends the Government for providing this opportunity.
Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) appeals to you to ensure that a free and fair election that will strengthen the confidence of the people is conducted. For this purpose, we earnestly request you to take the following steps:
1. Prevent the use of all types of State property (including civil and military) in a wrongful manner, for election purposes.
2. Guarantee that all candidates contesting the elections declare their assets and liabilities when they submit their nominations.
3. Ensure that public officials on election duty, particularly in the north, are allowed to carry out their legitimate duties without any form of undue influence either from the Government or any other party.
4. Do not permit the appointment or transfer of public officials in the areas where the elections are held, without your approval, and be vigilant about such acts.
We assure that we will extend out fullest cooperation in whatever steps you take in conducting a free and fair election.
FT