By: Isuru Parakrama
November 05, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has announced a notable change in the format of ballot papers for the upcoming Parliamentary Election, specifically affecting the Polonnaruwa, Monaragala, and Kegalle districts.
In a statement released recently, the Commission revealed that the ballot papers in these regions will feature a single-column layout.
This decision is based on the relatively lower number of recognised political parties and independent candidates contesting in these districts compared to others across the country.
In contrast, ballot papers for the remaining districts will continue to be printed in a two-column format.
This differentiation aims to streamline the voting process in areas where the candidate pool is less extensive, making it easier for voters to navigate their options.
Voters in the affected districts are advised to mark an ‘X’ in the empty box adjacent to the name and symbol of their chosen political party or the designated number and symbol for independent groups.
Additionally, the Election Commission has clarified that voters will have the option to indicate preference votes for up to three candidates after casting their primary vote.
This can be done by marking ‘X’ in the boxes corresponding to the numbers assigned to each candidate on the ballot paper.
This adjustment is designed to enhance voter experience and clarity, ensuring that the electoral process is as straightforward as possible.
The Commission encourages all voters to familiarise themselves with the new format ahead of the election, thereby promoting a smoother and more efficient voting process on polling day.
