Election Commission prepares to conduct Provincial Council election

Newly-appointed Elections Commission (EC) Chairman Nimal Punchihewa said the government would have to spend approximately LKR 4.5 billion to hold the Provincial Council (PC) election.

He said the Commission could proceed with the election once the required laws are passed in the legislature.

However, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, during a meeting with the new members of the Elections Commission, asked them to take necessary measures to hold the PC election soon.

The PC election has been delayed due to issues pertaining to the delimitation process related to the new electoral system passed under the previous government. However, the Chairman said the EC could hold the election under the old system, if the necessary laws are passed by Parliament.

The massive costs that would have to be incurred to conduct the PC election have become a cause for concern for many. Cash strapped government has sought LKR 10 billion  from international donors to purchase COVID-19 vaccines for the population.

“The Local Government election is scheduled in 2022. This election will also cost nearly LKR 3.6 billion. The total cost can be reduced if the PC and LG elections are held on the same day. But, the EC cannot make a decision in that regard. It is up to the lawmakers to make a final decision on this matter,” Punchihewa said.

Meanwhile, a section of the government is pushing for the abolition of the PC system saying it does not serve any purpose.