News Today: The Election Commission to take legal action against political parties lacking transparency during elections

The Election Commission (EC) of Sri Lanka has taken a firm stance on election transparency violations, officially lodging complaints with the Police against political parties, independent groups, and candidates who failed to submit their income and expenditure reports for the 2024 Presidential and Parliamentary Elections.

Legal Action Against Non-Compliant Political Parties

EC Chairman R. M. A. L. Ratnayake stated that 13 political parties and independent groups failed to submit their financial reports for the 2024 Presidential Election. As a result, the Commission has submitted documented proof to the Police, allowing them to initiate legal action against these parties.

Additionally, 1,064 candidates who contested in the 2024 Parliamentary Election have also failed to disclose their income and expenditure reports, violating election regulations.

Ratnayake emphasized that all individual files have been handed over to the Police, who will proceed with legal action against the responsible candidates, political parties, and independent groups.

Strengthening Electoral Processes for Future Elections

During a media briefing held at the Government Information Department, the Election Commission reiterated its commitment to election integrity and transparency. The event was themed ‘Registration Day for Voters’, an annual observance on February 1.

Additional Election Commissioner Rasika Peiris highlighted the Commission’s efforts to improve electoral roll accuracy. The goal is to ensure all eligible voters are registered and prevent any eligible citizen from being excluded from the voting process.

Updates on Electoral Roll and Voter Registration

The EC Chairman announced that:

• The electoral roll will include voters’ residential addresses, with updates every February 1.
• New voters who turn 18 on or before February 1 will be added to the main electoral roll to ensure they can exercise their voting rights.

With these measures, the Election Commission aims to promote electoral integrity, ensuring that candidates and political parties uphold transparency and accountability. This decisive action sets a new precedent for enforcing election laws in Sri Lanka.