UTV | COLOMBO – The Election Commission says it will face difficulties in setting up polling centres to facilitate persons undergoing quarantine to cast their ballot on the 31st of July for the upcoming General Election.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Commission this afternoon, Elections Chief Mahinda Deshapriya said the Commission is faced with a dilemma in conducting the election on the 31st for those in quarantine centres and self-isolation.
He added the Commission is faced with challenges in organising polling centres, as well as concerns related to advanced voting.
The Chairman of the Election Commission attributed this issue to the absence of a law pertaining to advance voting in the country.
He also revealed the Commission may have to abandon plans of going from door-to-door for persons in home quarantine to cast their ballot, as the Commission faces concerns in providing the same treatment for persons in remand custody and those with disabilities. Deshapriya added they will seek expert legal advice over the matter.
On a separate note the Elections Chief requested candidates to refrain from conducting propaganda activities in the guise of religious gatherings. He pointed out that such issues may arise as Saturday and Sunday are holidays and Monday is poya.