Commonwealth observers not pleased with SL Election

The Commonwealth Observer Group today said that Sri Lanka’s Presidential Election did not comply with all the key benchmarks for democratic elections.

The Group has been present in Sri Lanka since 2 January 2015 to observe and consider all aspects of the electoral process and assess compliance with the standards for democratic elections.

“The Group recognises that the Office of the Commissioner of Elections lacks the necessary powers of enforcement with regard to election law violations and also lacks legislative independence from the Executive,” Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, Chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group, said. 

Issuing an Interim Statement on Sri Lanka’s Presidential Election 2015, he further said that, in the absence of an independent Elections Commission, “Sri Lanka’s electoral framework does not provide for the basic conditions for democratic elections.”

“The outcome of the 2015 election reflected the will of the people of Sri Lanka.” 

“It is however the view of the Group that the inadequate electoral and legal framework coupled with an unequal pre-electoral environment means that this electoral contest did not comply with all the key benchmarks for democratic elections,” the former President of Guyana said.

The Commonwealth Observer Group commended the people of Sri Lanka for the “spirit” in which they participated in the important election. “The high voter turnout of 81.52 per cent reflects positively on the Sri Lankan people’s strong commitment to the democratic process.”

The Group further commended the key political actors for accepting the results of the election and for reinforcing in their public statements the need to respect the rule of law in the days to come.

However, he said Commonwealth Observers found that the election campaign period was marked by an unequal contest with extensive, large-scale abuse of state resources. 

“They noted the comprehensive bias of state media against the Common Opposition Candidate’s campaign; the use of military personnel and public officials to support the President’s campaign; the use of Government monies, gifts and other inducements; and, the widespread use of state-owned public transport by the incumbent.” 

Dr Jagdeo also praised Commissioner of Elections Mahinda Deshapriya, saying his efforts, integrity and determination was “deeply impressive” throughout the election period. 

“All major stakeholders stated that they had faith in his ability to deliver, despite the limitations of the role. His staff are also to be commended for their professionalism and dedication under challenging circumstances,” he said.