November 14, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankans head to the polling stations to elect members of the island nation’s tenth Parliament today (14), marking the first parliamentary election since President Anura Kumara assumed office.
This election will determine 196 of the 225 parliamentary seats through direct voting, with an additional 29 seats allocated from the National List.
Polling stations across the country are open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., offering the electorate of over 17 million citizens an opportunity to shape their government.
The Election Commission has arranged 13,314 polling stations nationwide and is providing special assistance for voters with disabilities, including accessible transportation options and visual aids where necessary.
A diverse field of 8,821 candidates is contesting in this election, including 5,464 candidates representing political parties and 3,357 independents. Notable candidates include former opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and current Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya.
For the first time in decades, none of the Rajapaksa family members are running, marking a significant shift in the island’s political atmosphere.
Voter participation is encouraged with provisions allowing each voter to mark three preferences. The Gampaha district, with 1.9 million registered voters, is expected to send the largest number of representatives to Parliament, while Trincomalee will send the fewest.
The Election Commission has reinforced protocols to ensure a secure voting environment. Commission Chief R.M.A.L. Rathnayake emphasised that prohibited activities within polling stations include using mobile phones, taking photographs, and entering under the influence of alcohol.
Violations of these regulations could lead to penalties, and voters are reminded to present valid identification, such as a National Identity Card, Passport, or Driver’s Licence, when casting their vote.
To uphold electoral transparency and security, 5,000 observers from the People’s Action for Free & Fair Elections (PAFFREL) will monitor the process, with 3,000 stationed within polling centres and an additional 2,000 conducting patrols around the premises.
PAFFREL Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi highlighted the importance of this election in shaping Sri Lanka’s future amidst economic recovery efforts. Further, 200 observers will supervise the vote counting, which will commence after polls close at 4:00 p.m.
The Election Commission has also deployed an extensive security operation, with 90,000 police and military personnel on duty across the island. Mobile patrols will be active throughout election day, and officers have been stationed at polling centres to address any disruptions.
