Polls chief to discuss election laws with candidates

Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya will meet the leaders of political parties and independent groups contesting the August 17 parliamentary elections for the first time after nominations tomorrow 20.

“He is expected to discuss key important issues with the candidates including the election law and their contribution to a violence free campaign,” Deputy Commissioner M.M. Mohamed said. The Commissioner will also make the candidates aware of the law prohibiting proxy candidates. He earlier said that he would take action to remove campaign offices if candidates failed to heed his decree not to canvass votes for others.

The Commissioner will invite all political parties and independent groups contesting the polls including the Secretaries of small parties within the coalitions for the first meeting.

“He may probably meet only the Secretaries of coalitions thereafter,” he said.