August 27, Colombo (LNW): Election authorities have issued a strict reminder that providing extravagant meals, drinks, or gifts during presidential campaigns constitutes a violation under the Presidential Elections Act.
Such activities fall under the category of “treating,” which is prohibited to prevent undue influence on voters.
In previous elections, candidates often hosted lavish gatherings for their supporters, with little scrutiny.
However, the issue has resurfaced in public discourse after election officials intervened to halt a party planned by a presidential candidate in Anuradhapura, intended for local professionals and academics.
Additional Election Commissioner (Legal) Chintaka Kularatne explained that according to Section 77 of the Act, treating is classified as an inducement, making it illegal.
Candidates are therefore prohibited from offering food, drinks, or any form of refreshment during campaign events.
As the presidential race heats up ahead of the September 21 election, candidates are now focusing on more direct methods, such as door-to-door visits, public meetings, media interviews, and distribution of leaflets.
The tightening of regulations aims to ensure a fair and transparent election, free from improper influence through lavish campaign spending.
