(UTV | COLOMBO) – Election monitoring body the People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections says public representatives have completely disregarded health advise issued by authorities during campaigning.
Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi said officials must intervene as public health is at risk.
He said candidates contesting the Parliamentary Election have begun propaganda activities and health authorities have issued guidelines to candidates and the Election Commission on safe conduct due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hettiarachchi added however that no candidate was seen making an effort to follow health guidelines during campaigning.
He noted that it was observed that some of the main political candidates themselves are those who are disregarding health advice.
Rohana Hettiarachchi said PAFFREL continued to call for the subject Minister to gazette health advisories, while adding however that no efforts are being taken in this regard.
He stressed that no candidate or political party has the right to compromise the health and safety of the public, adding therefore attention must be redirected to the matter.