SL returning to normal creates chance for polls: SLPP

• Says confident EC will factor in lifting of curfew into evaluation on whether to hold elections
• Assures operations to bring Sri Lankans stranded in foreign nations will continue after current spate of positive cases tackled  

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) yesterday said the decision to lift curfew should be considered as a positive sign that the country is returning to normalcy, and expressed confidence that the Election Commission (EC) will take these changes into consideration and hold the Parliamentary Elections without further delay. 

Speaking to reporters, SLPP senior member and former Parliamentarian Sisira Jayakodi said the public wants the election to be held without further delay, and all parties should respect the call to protect the democratic rights of citizens.

“The public has called for an election, which is their democratic right. Everyone should respect that and take necessary measures to hold the election under the guidance of health officials. There were no reports of COVID-19 infected persons outside the Navy cluster and those returned from foreign countries who are currently located at quarantine centres,” he said.

He charged the Opposition was attempting to delay the election, as they were aware they failed to deliver their promises when they were in power. According to Jayakodi, the Government does not intend to delay the election. However, he assured that public safety would be the Government’s priority.  

Jayakodi said the health officials, with the help of the military, were able to control the outbreak to a significant extent, and appreciated their efforts.

Referring to Sri Lankans stranded in foreign nations, Jayakodi noted the recent decision to temporarily limit repatriating Sri Lankans was taken due to the guidance of health officials.  He pointed out that the Government will recommence repatriating more Sri Lankans when current concerns are addressed. 

“The Government did not stop the operation of bringing back Sri Lankans stranded in foreign nations. However, due to new cases reported from Sri Lankans that returned from Kuwait, the health officials made a call to prevent any fresh outbreak. The operations will resume once we get the green light from health officials,” he said.