By Sarah Hannan The general election scheduled for 20 June is to be conducted amid the Covid-19 health risks. Officers from the Election Commission (EC) and the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services are in discussions about the extra measures that need to be in place to ensure the health and safety of the entire country. Speaking to The Morning, EC Director General Saman Sri Ratnayake said: “The EC is consulting the Ministry of Health, chief epidemiologists, and community physicians to prepare a health guideline that can be followed not only by the EC and its staff, but also by the political parties as well as the public, once the election campaigning starts.” He opined that elections involve an interaction between a larger group of people and to successfully conduct the general election, all districts should commence work. Moreover, travel restrictions that are in place will also need to be removed and transportation facilities should return to normal. “We seek assistance from government officials working in other institutions when elections are held, especially to assist at the polling centres and then to assist with counting votes. We will have to co-ordinate a large group of people and will also need the assistance of law enforcement authorities. When all these elements are in place, we will be able to conduct the election,” Ratnayake added. He further noted that for now, the election day is set to 20 June, but based on the recommendations of the health authorities and the status of the virus spread, it will be decided. The EC is hopeful to have a set of guidelines ready by next week.