Why is the military out?

Wednesday, 5 August 2020 00:38 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The President promised the Commission when we met him in mid-June that the Army would not be deployed during elections.

However, on 3 August, I was driving from Bandarawela to Jaffna and at the junction from Badulla to the turn-off to Mahiyangana, I witnessed over 25 soldiers idling with no visible purpose.

On the A9 just south of Iratperiyakulam, the army had a checkpoint. On the Poonahari-Jaffna road, again about 25 soldiers. Later some in a tractor. There were no street lights. No moonlight either. It was scary.

My Police escort, a sergeant, confirmed they were indeed soldiers and not Police. If voters are as scared as I am, it augurs poorly for a free and fair election on 5 August.

I trust that the President will take note and uphold his word.

S.R.H. Hoole

Member, Election Commission