During the 8th General Assembly of the Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL), which took place in Bangkok following the recent Thai General Election, Mr. Rohana Hettiarachchi, the Executive Director of PAFFREL (People’s action for Free and Fair Elections), was appointed as the Chairperson of the Asian Network for Free Elections. The announcement was made in the presence of representatives from 18 countries and twenty-nine organisations affiliated with the ANFREL network.
In addition to his role as Chairperson, Mr. Hettiarachchi will also serve as the Director of the Asian Network for Free Elections. The assembly also elected Mrs. Pili Cora from Philippines as the Secretary General and Mr. P. Sakul from Thailand as the Treasurer. Furthermore, representatives from Indonesia, Myanmar, Mongolia, Maldives, and Nepal were elected to the Board of Directors.
Mr. Hettiarachchi’s term as Chairman will extend until May 2026, providing him with a significant opportunity to contribute to the network’s mission of promoting transparency, fairness, and integrity in elections across Asia. Notably, prior to assuming the position of Chairman, Mr. Hettiarachchi had served as the Secretary General of the Asian Network for Free Elections for thirteen years, demonstrating his extensive experience and dedication to the organisation’s goals.
Under Mr. Hettiarachchi’s leadership, the Asian Network for Free Elections aims to further strengthen its presence and influence in the region, fostering collaboration among member countries and organisations to enhance electoral processes and ensure democratic principles are upheld.
