The Elections Commissioner, Mahinda Deshapriya stated that he will take legal action against those who engage in election propaganda in between media discussions.
Speaking at a press conference held today (September 20) in Colombo, he said that although political parties can hold media discussions they are not allowed to engage in election propaganda today.
He also shared his regret over the incident in which TNA candidate Anandi Sridharan’s home was attacked but claimed that he was unable to do anything about it and that it was the duty of the police to take further action.
Deshapriya stated that he had not requested the Armed forces to provide security during the elections but had requested the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide additional security at certain points.
He also conceded that illegal propaganda was taking place and that he himself witnessed it during his visit to Jaffna. He however claimed that the millions spent on cutouts and banners was a means of income for the general public in the area.
The Commissioner also added that he does not receive much of the information the media receives regarding election violence while stating that he would not hesitate to take action if he was given the necessary information.
