By: Isuru Parakrama
October 07, Colombo (LNW): Rohana Hettiarachchi, Executive Director of the election monitor People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL), has called on political parties and candidates to uphold peace and integrity during the upcoming parliamentary elections.
Speaking as the nomination process nears its conclusion, Hettiarachchi stressed the significance of continuing the peaceful environment observed during the recent presidential election.
“The nomination period for parliamentary elections is currently ongoing and will wrap up by the end of this week. We firmly believe it is possible to conduct these elections in a peaceful manner,” he said.
Hettiarachchi highlighted that the last presidential election was one of the most tranquil in the nation’s electoral history, setting a precedent that should be emulated during this next phase.
He further urged all political parties, independent candidates, and their supporters to act responsibly and avoid any form of violence or unrest, ensuring the parliamentary election reflects the same calm and civility as the presidential race.
He pointed out that the peaceful nature of the last election is a testament to what can be achieved when political figures and their supporters commit to respecting democratic processes.
Beyond this appeal for peaceful conduct, PAFFREL also emphasised the importance of maintaining transparency and fairness throughout the election process.
