With preparations for the upcoming Local Government (LG) Elections in full swing, authorities are implementing robust security measures to ensure safety and minimise incidents of violence during the election period.
Speaking to The Sunday Morning, Police Media Spokesman Buddhika Manatunga outlined that security steps were being carried out at local Police stations and divisional level across the country.
“Our election branch is actively monitoring violations of election laws and reports of violent activity nationwide. We are taking prompt action against any violations and all incidents are being recorded,” he said.
As part of ongoing security measures, special precautions were implemented during the nomination process for the LG Polls.
At present, routine Police security operations are underway, with additional teams being stationed in vulnerable areas as election day approaches.
These teams will be tasked with safeguarding election activities, including overseeing the confidential printing of ballot papers in Colombo.
Manatunga also highlighted the priority given to preventing shooting incidents during the election period. He emphasised that specialised units, such as the Police Special Task Force and tri-forces personnel, would be carrying out coordinated operations to reduce violent incidents.
Deputy Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government Prabha Ruwan Senarath reassured the public that the ministry was committed to conducting the LG Elections smoothly and securely.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that all necessary security measures are put in place to facilitate a safe election process,” Senarath stated.
While acknowledging the challenges posed by previous electoral tensions, the Deputy Minister confirmed that efforts were being made to ensure a fair and transparent election. “We are working towards making this election process as fair and effective as possible,” Senarath added.
In preparation for the elections, heads of political parties were invited to a meeting yesterday (22), where discussions were held regarding the implementation of security measures and other key aspects of the election. Senarath indicated that a formal statement outlining the decisions from this meeting would likely be released to the media in the coming days.
As the election date draws closer, authorities are expected to continue ramping up security measures, working to maintain peace and order during this crucial democratic exercise.