- PAFFREL has sent invites to Ranil, Sajith, AKD, Namal, Dilith & Ariyanethiran
- 7 electronic media channels ready to televise 2-hr debate, 200+ social media platforms ready to broadcast
The polls monitor, the People's Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL) has organised a Presidential debate on 7 September which is scheduled to feature six key candidates who are vying for the office of the President at the 21 September Presidential Poll.
Speaking to the media yesterday (19), PAFFREL Executive Director (ED) Rohana Hettiarachchi confirmed that invitations have been extended to several prominent candidates. These include the incumbent President and independent candidate Ranil Wickremesinghe, Samagi Jana Balawegaya and Opposition Leader and the candidate representing the former Sajith Premadasa, the National People’s Power Leader and Opposition Parliamentarian Anura Kumara Dissanayake, ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna candidate and Government MP Namal Rajapaksa, Sarvajana Balaya candidate, attorney and entrepreneur Dilith Jayaweera, and the common Tamil candidate P. Ariyanethiran.
Hettiarachchi emphasised the importance of this debate, noting that it offers a unique platform for the candidates to directly present their manifestos to the public. "This two-hour debate will allow all Presidential candidates to present their manifestos to the country, thereby providing the people with a valuable opportunity to decide who they should vote for," he stated.
He further elaborated that the debate would not only contribute to a more informed electorate but also promote a democratic environment where candidates can engage in constructive dialogue.
Hettiarachchi expressed confidence that such a public forum would enhance the voters' understanding of each candidate’s vision and policy related proposals, thereby enabling them to make a more informed decision at the ballot box.
In terms of media coverage, Hettiarachchi revealed that seven mainstream electronic media organisations have already expressed their willingness to telecast the debate. Additionally, over 200 social media platforms have agreed to facilitate its broadcast, ensuring wide accessibility to the public across various channels.