September 12, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has voiced significant concerns over several recent decisions by the Cabinet of Ministers, which are being interpreted by some as endorsements of a particular candidate in the upcoming presidential election.
Speaking to the media, Election Commission Chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake revealed that, while the Commission lacks the authority to intervene directly in Cabinet decisions, it has nonetheless expressed its unease regarding the timing of certain policies.
One such policy is the approval of a special Rs. 3,000 monthly allowance for pensioners, set to begin in September. The Commission recommended deferring the implementation of this benefit until after October, to avoid any perception of bias or electioneering.
Criticism has been mounting against the Cabinet for its perceived alignment with proposals advanced by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Many political observers and election watchdogs argue that these decisions appear to disproportionately benefit one candidate, thus potentially compromising the impartiality of the electoral process.
Manjula Gajanayake, Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES), has been particularly vocal in condemning the recent Cabinet actions.
He argued that by approving these measures in the lead-up to the election, the government may be undermining the democratic process and creating an unfair advantage for certain candidates.
The Election Commission’s warnings, along with growing criticism from civil society, highlight concerns about maintaining a level playing field during this crucial election period.
There are increasing calls for the government to be more cautious and transparent in its decisions, ensuring that public policy is not used as a tool for political gain.
