Sri Lanka election law violators to face legal action: official

The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has stated its commitment to taking stern action against anyone found violating election laws in the run-up to the 2019 presidential election.

A spokesperson for the commission reportedly noted that it will take legal action – under the Elections Act – against politicians and supporters who engage in disruptive or violent behaviour that infringes election laws.


Furthermore, complaint offices are proposed to be established at all district offices including the Elections Secretariat in Rajagiriya to investigate complaints received related to the election.

These complaint offices are to be set up in partnership with the police in the hope that new laws could be implemented – based on frequently reported complaints received this year – to prevent such issues recurring.

The official pointed out that there was a lack of followup on complaints received during previous elections and that the commission is taking proactive measures to ensure proper followup this time around.

He cautioned that if a person is found liable of violating election laws, then their civic rights including the right to vote could be suspended.