Polls monitors call for restraint

by Manjula Fernando

Following Friday's shooting incident, election monitors have called for restraint from all political parties.

They said the incident should not be a reason to unleash violence by those who seek revenge and party leaders must commit to a violence-free campaign, particularly during the remaining pre-election phase.

A spokesman for CaFFE said Friday's shooting was the worst incident that can happen during any election adding that the police and political party leaders now had a greater responsibility to ensure the campaign period is not marred by violence.

PAFFREL by 10.30 am yesterday reported 642 confirmed election law violations, where 65 were major incidents and 28 persons hospitalized.

There had also been 27 incidents of attacks on campaign offices, 23 assaults and one killing. The situation report has also recorded 18 confirmed instances where state power and resources were abused for electioneering, while there were 315 confirmed instances of illegal propaganda work.

There were 63 instances where bribes were given, unlawful processions and meetings numbered 28, illegal party offices 12, state officials canvassing for candidates 12 and misuse of state media amounted to four.