Reopening country not done to hold elections: SLPP

Prof. G.L. Peiris

• Says easing COVID-19 countering restrictions to assist economy and restore livelihoods 
• Denies reopening done to hold Parliamentary Polls asap; reiterates EC has freedom to decide on election date

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) yesterday said the Government was working to gradually ease COVID-19 countering measures in the country to support the people and not targeting elections. 

The Government eased a large number of restrictions on Monday, allowing many public and private sector workers to return to work and eased curfew in Colombo and Gampaha significantly, though it was not completely lifted. After more than six weeks, thousands of people were seen on the streets as Government departments and businesses returned to work. 

Speaking to media at the SLPP Head Office, Chairman Prof. G.L. Peiris said the Government would continue to follow the advice of health authorities to ease restrictions to prevent any threat of the virus spreading, but insisted easing restrictions was done to support millions of people struggling without livelihoods and to restore economic activity. 

“Reopening of the economy is vital but it will be done with great care,” he added.

Prof. Peiris pointed out that the country could not be locked down until all COVID-19 patients were cured, which he predicted would take many more months. Therefore he argued the country should find the balance between reopening the country and containing COVID-19.

“COVID-19 is an unexpected incident. The world is still studying it. However, as a country, we were able to manage the outbreak with the support of the tri-forces, health officials and other essential service providers. But it is equally important to keep in mind that COVID-19 is only controlled not completely eradicated,” he said.

Referring to Government relief programs, Prof. Peiris noted those who lost income due to lockdown were given cash allowances but acknowledged that such programmes could not be continued indefinitely. He stressed it was imperative that the economy should restart for people could have access to their livelihoods again. 

Responding to questions about the Parliamentary Election, Prof. Peiris said the Government was not focusing on polls at the moment. He reiterated containing COVID-19 would be the Government’s priority and said the decision of when it would be best to hold elections should be taken by the Election Commission (EC).

“The Government is not focusing on the election at all. The Election Commission will make a final call about when the election will be held. However, it is unfortunate to see that the Opposition attempting to gain political mileage from this situation,” he added.

He reiterated that the President would not reconvene the former Parliament and claimed if Parliament was reconvened the Opposition would use its majority to sabotage the Government’s efforts to contain COVID-19.