Friday Forum makes urgent call to political parties and voters

The Friday Forum has made an urgent appeal to all political parties and voters ahead of the 17 August general election. Following is the statement by the forum:

The Friday Forum is an informal group of concerned citizens pledged to uphold norms of democracy, good governance, the rule of law, human rights, media freedom and tolerance in our pluralist society.

On 8 January, we witnessed a major turning point in the recent political history of our country. The majority of voters cast their ballot in rejection of the prevalent political culture that was widely acknowledged to be undemocratic, corrupt and violent. 

The political change opened up hitherto restricted political spaces for free debate and dialogue enabling the enjoyment of free expression and association without fear of political reprisals. The enjoyment of the right to personal liberty and security has been palpably strengthened. 

Similarly, there is greater freedom from ethno-religious extremism emanating from various sources. We are heartened to witness and experience the beginnings of a new political culture, though certainly not perfect, that places a premium on democratic norms and practices.

The country cannot afford to see the rolling back of those fragile democratic gains made by the people on 8 January. The forthcoming general election must be utilised to consolidate those gains. We are hopeful that all political parties are committed to ensure that goal. 

The Friday Forum calls upon all political party leaders and selectors to ensure that they observe the March 12th declaration that was signed by all political parties when nominating candidates for the forthcoming general election. 

We urge political parties to nominate only those who have not abused authority of office through corruption, nepotism, the use of intimidation and other forms of violence against the people; have not undermined the rule of law; and those who have not incited ethnic or religious hatred or violence. 

The country would be served well only by candidates who can serve the people with a democratic ethic that includes a deep respect for the pluralistic character of Sri Lankan society.

We urge the voting public to reject parties that nominate candidates who have abused authority of office, have abused the rule of law and norms of democracy, have incited ethnic and/or religious hatred in order to gain electoral popularity, or have endorsed political violence overtly or tacitly.