By: Isuru Parakrama
November 01, Colombo (LNW): Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) has lodged a formal complaint with the Election Commission of Sri Lanka, citing potential breaches of election laws related to recent appointments at the Palmyrah Development Board (PDB) in Jaffna.
According to TISL, Selvin Ireneuss Mariampillai was appointed Chairman of the PDB on October 10 but was replaced just 12 days later by Vinayagamoorthy Sahadevan on October 22.
These swift changes, along with new board member appointments, were reportedly approved by the Cabinet Minister despite election period restrictions set by the Commission, which prohibit new appointments, promotions, or transfers within government institutions without prior approval during this sensitive time.
The Election Commission’s Gazette, published on September 25, categorically outlines that no such appointments should be made until the election period concludes, emphasising the need for neutrality within public sector organisations.
TISL expressed concerns that the appointments could undermine public confidence in the electoral process, suggesting that they may give the appearance of political influence over public bodies.
The organisation is pressing the Election Commission to swiftly investigate the matter and, if necessary, take corrective action to ensure adherence to the election regulations.
In its statement, TISL further urged the Government to suspend all such appointments across public institutions until the General Election is completed, advocating for greater transparency and adherence to governance practices to protect the impartiality of the electoral process.
