• Says space for free and fair Elections strengthened under 19A
• Wants public to maintain peace during and after polling 
• Commends EC for taking all steps to conduct free and fair poll

Prime Minister Ranil Wickreme-singhe yesterday called on the public to peacefully exercise their franchise and ensure free and fair Elections, insisting that the environment for a democratic transition of power had been enhanced by the passing of the 19th Amendment.

Wickremesinghe, releasing a statement, said democracy had been strengthened by the 19th Amendment that created independent commissions, including the Election Commission, which had worked tirelessly to create the space for free and fair Elections to be carried out once again in Sri Lanka. He also pointed out that the first Presidential Election since the passing of the 19th Amendment would be held today.

“The Election Commission has done everything necessary to hold a free and fair Presidential Election. Necessary security will also be provided by the tri-forces and police. As citizens of a democratic country it is our duty to provide support for the conducting of free and fair Elections,” the statement said. 

Emphasising that it was necessary to protect and promote democracy the Prime Minister encouraged voters to exercise their franchise peacefully. He also stressed that it was necessary for peace to be maintained in the aftermath of the Election.  

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