Summary of incidents received to CMEV by 4.30 p.m. 31st March 2010 Total number of Incidents: 277 Major incidents: 161 Minor incidents: 116 Firearms involved: 40 Download this PDF for more information in English, Sinhala and Tamil.
Parliamentary Election April 2010: Summary of incidents to date Read More »
30 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV is deeply concerned by the escalating violence and intimidation that threatens to mar the forthcoming polls. Recent incidents of election related violence are highlighted below; UNP party meeting obstructed in Welikada CMEV received a complaint from UNP candidate Shiral Lakthilaka(candidate no 21) alleging that the decorations set up for a UNP meeting in Welikada were removed by the Welikada Police at around 12.30 pm today. CMEV Field Monitor visited to the scene and recorded a statement from Shiral Laktialka. According to him, they initially sought the approval of the Welikada Police to conduct a meeting on 30th March in a car park belonging to the Kotte Urban Council. They were informed that since a meeting of UPFA candidate Wimal Weerawansa(candidate no 20) had been arranged the following day, the Police were unable give the UNPers approval. He further stated that they then decided to conduct their meeting in a car park located in Rajagiriya belonging to the Road Development Authority. However, the Welikada Police informed them that since the Police did not have enough officers to provide security for the Opposition Leader, Ranil Wickrmasinghe, they were unable to grant their approval. The UNPers finally decided to hold the meeting in a car park next to the Welikada Police Station. CMEV contacted the Welikad Police Station. OIC Gamini Sarath stated that they only removed the illegal decorations, which were displayed outside the premises and did not obstruct the UNP meeting. He denied allegations that they did not respond to the UNPers requests to hold a meeting and explained that they have also given approval to the meeting held today. Repeated reports regarding the misuse of public property CMEV Field Monitor observed that a lorry (WP LD 1304) belonging to the Ministry of Health was used to transport posters of the ruling party, to Embilipitya from Colombo on 29th March at around 05.15 pm. CMEV Monitor also learnt that around 80,000 posters were being transported. Once CMEV confirmed the incident, CMEV immediately informed all the relevant police authorities including the Election DIG’s Office, the respective Police Station-Rathnapura- and the Emergency Line (119). However, through subsequent calls, CMEV learnt that no action was taken to track the vehicle. CMEV, once again, underscores the blatant misuse of public resources for electioneering and its bearing on the integrity and outcome of the polls. CMEV expresses its deep concern over the inability of the responsible authorities to arrest the situation. UPFA supporters assaulted in Vavuniya On 28th March, CMEV received a complaint from J.Jesir, a supporter of the former Minister and UPFA candidate, Risad Badhiutheen (candidate no 01), that he was assaulted by a group of supporters of UNP candidate Noordeen Mashoor (candidate no 05) in Chinna Chippikulam, Nerayakulam, Vavuniya at around 09.30 am. The victim sustained grievous injuries on his head and has been admitted to ward no 04 of the Chettikulam Base Hospital. On 29th March, CMEV Field Monitor visited the hospital and recorded a statement from the victim. According to him, the perpetrators attempted to stab him in the stomach with a knife, but he managed to escape. They subsequently stabbed him on his head. CMEV learnt that a complaint was lodged with the Chettikulam Police in this regard by the victim on the same day and A.C.Razick, a suspect, was arrested in relation the incident. When CMEV contacted Noordeen Mashoor’s office, Mr.Thameem, personal coordinator of the candidate, informed CMEV that he is not aware of the incident. CMEV was unable to contact the Police. Clash between two UPFA groups in Gampola CMEV learnt that a group of supporters of UPFA candidate S.B.Dissanayake (candidate no 05) assaulted a group of supporters of UPFA candidate, Mahindananda Aluthgamage (candidate no 04) in Galgediyawa, Gampola at around 03.30 am on 28th March. Eight supporters of Mahindananda Aluthgamage sustained injuries due to the attack and were admitted to the Gampola Base Hospital. On 30th March, CMEV contacted Mahindananda Aluthgamage. He informed CMEV that his supporters were attacked with wooden batons by supporters of S.B.Dissanyake.. He alleged that they also kidnapped one of his supporters whose release he obtained by speaking directly to S.B.Dissanayake. CMEV contacted S.B.Dissanayke, he stated that he also came to know about the incident and that he is still not aware of whether his supporters were really involved in the incident or not. He further informed CMEV that he will look into the matter. Attempts to get further details from the Gampola Police Station regarding the incident were not successful, as no one officially responded to the queries. When CMEV contacted the Gampola Base Hospital, Dr.Sunitha Jayasundara informed CMEV that the victims were admitted to ward no 01 and 02 of the hospital and were receiving treatment. She further informed CMEV that they are not in a critical condition. As of 28th March, CMEV has confirmed 258 incidents of election related violence including 152 Major Incidents. The Use of Fire- arms and the Misuse of Public Property has risen to 40 and 41 respectively. Major Incidents include 51 incidents of Assault, 41 instances of Public Property Misuse, 25 incidents of Threat and Intimidation, 10 instances of Damage to Property, 08 incidents each of Arson and Grievous Hurt, 07 instances each of Hurt and 02 of Robbery. All CMEV reports and communiqués and the CMEV Incidents Google Map can be accessed online at http://cmev.wordpress.com
29 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV repeats its call to the relevant authorities, political party leaders and their supporters to act fast to prevent further violence and to take immediate actions against the members who have perpetrated violence. Download this as a Sinhala PDF here. Obstruction to CMEV Field Monitor in Nikaweratiya Yesterday, in its 05th Media Communiqué, CMEV highlighted the incident of a camera belonging to its Field Monitor in Nikaweratiya, being snatched by a man who appears to be a supporter of Johnston Fernando. The Monitor was photographing an attacked UNP Party Office in Nikaweratiya. CMEV Field Monitor lodged a complaint (MOIB 270/44) with the Nikaweratiya Police Station at around 07.30 pm yesterday. On contacting the Police, CMEV learnt that the further investigations are being carried out and that no one has been identified in relation to the incident. On 29th March CMEV contacted UPFA candidate Johnston Fernando in this regard. He informed CMEV that he is out of Nikaweratiya, today and will look into the matter once he returned to Nikaweratiya tomorrow. CMEV unreservedly condemns any attempts to undermine it and urges the authorities to assure an impartial and speedy investigation into the incident. An arson attack to UPFA stage in Ninthavoor On 29th March, CMEV received a complaint from CMEV Field Monitor that the pavilion set up for a UPFA meeting in Main Street, Ninthavoor was set on fire, allegedly by a group of UNP supporters at around 10.30 am today. CMEV contacted Mr.Jahufer, Personal Secretary to the incumbent Minister of Water Supply and Drainage and UPFA candidate A.L.M.Athaulla(candidate no 02). He informed CMEV that around 400 UNP supporters were involved in the incident and that they broke the stage and set fire to the decorations and furniture. CMEV contacted M.A.Jinnah, Personal Secretary to UNP candidate Faisal Casim(candidate no 08). He admitted that they are UNPers. He added however that they were not instigated to attack the stage and that he too condemns the attack. CMEV learnt that the STF was deployed in the area after the attack to provide security to the meeting. Attack to DNA Party Offices in Tissamaharama CMEV Field Monitor reported that two DNA party offices located in Tissamaharama were attacked by an unknown group who came in a car and a cab at around 01.00 am today. According to him, cutouts and decorations were damaged due to the attack. CMEV contacted V.K.Sunil, a DNA supporter. He alleged that the attack was carried out by Nil Balakaya(Blue Force, a movement led by UPFA candidate Namal Rajapakshe) and that they were carrying fire arms. According to him bullets were fired in the air, thrice. CMEV contacted the Tissamaharama Police Station. An officer who did not mention his name, confirmed the incident and stated that they have received two complaints regarding the incident from the DNA. He further informed CMEV that further investigations are being carried out on this account. Intra Party disputes Nuwara-Eliya: On 29th March CMEV received a complaint from R.M.S.Sunethra Menike, District women wing Organizer of the National Freedom Front, an ally of UPFA, that their women working committee meeting held at the Community Hall located in Morabedda,Harasbedda, was interrupted allegedly by a group of supporters of the incumbent Minister of Livestock Development and UPFA candidate C.B.Ratnayake(candidate no 02) today at around 12.00 pm. According to her the group was led by H.Ananda Hithtetige known as Ajantha, a Samurdhi Officer. CMEV contacted the Walapane Police Station. A police officer who did not reveal his name, confirmed the incident and that a complaint (EIB 161/76) has been made by R.M.S.Sunethra Menike. Attempts to contact C.B.Ratnayake were not successful as he was in a meeting. Anamaduwa: CMEV received reports regarding an intra party clash between two groups of UPFA supporters in Anamanduwa. On 26th March W.A.Chaminda, Driver of the Chairman of the Arachchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabah(PS)-Jagath Samantha- was assaulted by a group of supporters of UPFA candidate Priyankara Jayaratne(candidate no 09) in Maduwakkulama, Andigamuwa while they were going to hand over a loudspeaker to a mosque located in Maduwakkulama, Andigama. CMEV learnt that Jagath Samantha is a brother of UPFA candidate Sanath Nishantha(candidate no 02) and that the loudspeaker was a gift from Sanath Nishatha Foundation. A counter attack was allegedly carried out by Jagath Samatha and his supporters on a group of supporters of Priyankara Jayaratne on 27th March near Galkuliya Junction, Andigama. Three supporters of Priyankara Jayaratne sustained injuries due to the attack and K.M.Nihal, a UPFA supporter, was admitted to the Chilaw General Hospital. When contacted, both parties denied the allegations against them and made counter- allegations against each other. CMEV learnt that W.A.Chaminda made a complaint (MOIB 210/199) to the Pallama Police station and a counter complaint was lodged with the Anamaduwa Police Station. When CMEV contacted the Anamaduwa Police Station, Election OIC, N.D.Sarath refused to provide any details regarding the incident as the complaint is not categorized as election related. Kalutara: CMEV learnt that UPFA candidate Kumara Welgama(candidate no 07) entered a party office of UPFA candidate Vidura Wickramanayake(candidate no 13) and attempted to attack a UPFA supporter in the eve of 27th March. When contacted, Indika Chandratilaka, Personal Secretary to the Prime Minister, informed CMEV that they have lodged a complaint with the Horana Police Station. She asked CMEV to get further details from them. On 29th March, CMEV Field Monitor visited the Horana Police Station, OIC Gunasena Geekiyanage informed CMEV that they have not received a complaint regarding the above incident. Repeated attempts to contact Kumara Welgama were not successful as he was not contactable. UNP party office attacked in Nikaweratiya CMEV Field Monitor reported that a UNP Party Office located in Nikaweratiya was attacked by a group of supporters of UPFA candidate Johnston Fernando (candidate no 14) while they were returning after a UPFA meeting held in Nikaweratiya under the patronage of the President, Mahinda Rajapakshe. Furniture and the campaigning materials were damaged due to the attack. CMEV contacted the Organizer and UNP candidate,
28 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV expresses its deep concern about the flagrant misuse of public property for electioneering and the inactivity of responsible officers in arresting the situation. Attacks on party offices and supporters increase in the lead up to the election. CMEV calls upon the leaders of two main political parties in and their allies to act to prevent further violence and to take effective action against members and supporters who have perpetrated violence. Obstruction to CMEV Field Monitor CMEV learns that a camera belonging to the CMEV Field Monitor in Nikaweratiya, Nihal Chandrasisiri, has been snatched by a man in a white Hi-ace van at around 07.15 pm today while he was photographing a damaged UNP Party Office in Nikaweratiya. CMEV Field Monitor informed CMEV that the candidate number and the name of UPFA candidate Johnston Fernando were displayed on the back mirror of the vehicle. His name was displayed as’Jhony’ in Sinhala. CMEV monitor was unable to identify the vehicle number. CMEV learns that at the time of the incident the Police were also present at the location to investigate the attack on the UNP party office. According to the instruction given by the CMEV Secretariat, CMEV Field Monitor has lodged a complaint at the Nikaweratiya Police Station. CMEV will write to the Election Commissioner and the IGP in this regard. CMEV unreservedly condemns this obstruction of the work of election observers by the politicians and their supporters. Clash between UPFA supporters in Mirissa CMEV Field Monitor reported that a clash between a group of supporters of the incumbent Minister of Cultural Affairs and National Heritage and UPFA candidate, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena(candidate no 03) and a group of supporters of UPFA candidate, Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena(candidate 01) at Mirissa Junction, around 12.30 pm toady. CMEV contacted Yamuna Punchihewa, a UPFA member of the Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha(PS) and a supporter of Lakshman Yapa Abeyawardena, who stated that they were obstructed by supporters of Mahinda Yapa near the Mirrissa Junction when they came in a procession from Kamburugamuwa. She further said that the perpetrators attacked them with wooden batons, stones and glass bottles. He also alleged that they were carrying a pistol. According to Yamuna Punchihewa, two UPFA members of Weligamuwa PS namely Susantha Jayalath and Pushpakumara Bettage were amongst the perpetrators. CMEV contacted Susantha Jayalath who informed CMEV that a tense situation arose after supporters of Mahinda Yapa hooted supporters of Lakshman Yapa who were near the Mirrissa Junction. He said that he intervened to control the situation. He categorically denied that they assaulted the supporters of Lakshman Yapa and stated that no one carried fire- arms. CMEV contacted the Weligama Police Station, Mr.Mahesh, OIC of the Weligama Police Station, informed CMEV that they rushed to the scene of the incident once they were informed. He further stated that they managed to disperse the crowd before the situation worsened. AITC supporter threatened in Warani, Jaffna On 28th March, CMEV received a complaint from AITC candidate, S.Subramaniyam(candidate no 11) alleging that K.Arumugam, one of his supporter was verbally threatened by Y.Yogachandran, who claims to be a EPDP supporter, in Warani North at around 04.00 pm today. According to Subramaniyam, he was threatened not to campaign in the Kudathanai area as the area “belongs” to the EPDP and was he to do so, he was told that he would be killed. On contacting the Kodikama Police Station, CMEV learnt that no complaint has been lodged with the police as yet. Repeated intimidation to UNP supporters in Norwood On 27th March R.Kalaivanan, a UNP supporter, made a complaint to CMEV that members of his family are continuously intimidated by Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) supporters, an ally of UPFA. He alleged that the incumbent Minister of Youth Empowerment and Socio Economic Development and UPFA candidate Arumugam Thondaman(candidate no 10) threatened them to remove their shop located at No.02,Maskleiya Road Norwood immediately. He further alleged that he instructed the OIC of the Norwood Police Station to take immediate actions against him and his father Mr.Rajendran, Opposition Leader of the Ambagamuwa PS. Repeated attempts to contact Mr. Arumugam Thondaman were not successful as he was in a meeting. When CMEV contacted the Norwood Police, OIC Saman Kumara informed CMEV that Arumugam Thondaman visited the area on 26th March for campaigning but that no quarrels occurred during the visit as alleged. Public property misuse in Polonnaruwa On 28th March CMEV Field Monitor reported that a bus (03sri-9868) belonging to the Mahaweli Authority was used to transport a group of UPFA supporters from Welikanda to Kalahagala for campaigning activities on 27th March. CMEV contacted the residence project manager, Ranjith Perera who confirmed that the bus belongs to the authority and that he has strictly instructed the staff not to use any vehicles for electioneering. He said he was not aware of this incident. 04 UNP party offices damaged in Sooriyawewa CMEV Field Monitor informed that 04 UNP party offices have been attacked by an unknown group, yesterday 27 March in the Sooriyawewa area. According to CMEV Field Monitor, attacks were carried out between 01-04 am and campaigning materials were set fire to by the perpetrators. CMEV learnt that the offices were maintained by 04 UNP supporters namely U.K.Gunadasa, H.H.William, T.L.Ranjth and G.G.Thanuja Sampth. When contacted H.H.William, a UNP supporter, alleged that the attacks would have been carried out by the UPFA and they would not make a complaint to the Police because they lacked trust in them. When contacted, the Sooriyawewa Police Station, Sergeant Ratnaweera stated that they had not as yet received a complaint. UPFA supporters attacked in Pottuvil On 26th March, CMEV Field Monitor reported that National Congress Organizer for Pottuvil, M.A.Majeed, and a group of National Congress supporters, an ally of UPFA, were attacked with stones at a UNF meeting held in Pottuvil. According to CMEV Field Monitor, they were attacked by UNF supporters gathered at the meeting after UPFA supporters in a van (WP HM 6975) intentionally knocked down a
26 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV notes with concern the actions of election officials which violate the integrity of the electoral process, the very process they are charged with protecting. Postal Voting CMEV received reports of 28 postal voting related incidents at the closure of postal voting on 26th March. CMEV also received reports of clashes between party members during the postal voting. North Western Province Chilaw Bus Depot CMEV learnt that the Certifying Officer of the above centre compelled the CMEV Stationary Monitor to alter his observations when he submitted the observation form to him for attestation yesterday. CMEV monitor observed that some leaflets of the UPFA candidates were placed on the tables of the centre and that voters were exchanging information on which candidates they were vote for. CMEV has written to the Commissioner and the Puttalam Returning Officer in this regard. North Central Province Zonal Education Office, Anuradhapura According to CMEV Field Monitor, the Certifying Officer of the above centre, Abdul Sameedu, did not provide any details to him and said that he has not been instructed to provide details to election observers. At around 03.30 pm, CMEV contacted the Assistant Election Commissioner of Anuradhapura, S.M.S. Bandulasena, who said that he would intervene in the matter. He requested CMEV to send its Field Monitor to the particular centre to provide him with further details. After the intervention of the Assistant Election Commissioner, CMEV Field Monitor was able to collect the details from the above postal voting centre. 138 postal votes were registered at the centre. Kebithigollewa Police Station CMEV learnt that postal voting at the Kebitihgollewa Police Station was postponed to 03rd April 2010 since the Police Officers are on special duty today. Postal voting, however, was held at the centre yesterday, according to the CMEV FieldMonitor. One hundred and thirty eight (138) postal votes were registered at the centre. Wilgamuwa Zonal Education Office,Laggala CMEV learnt that postal voting at Wilgamuwa Zonal Education Office was stopped by an Assistant Returning Officer (ARO), N.B.Karunatilake, at around 10.30 am yesterday on the ground that the procedures were not properly followed. According to CMEV Field Monitor,29 out of 192 registered postal ballots were marked at the time of closure. On 26th March, CMEV contacted the Assistant Election Commissioner of the Matale District, DileepNishantha, who informed CMEV that the two certifying officers of the centre did not participate in the instruction classes held for them and did not even collect the required official documents to conduct the polls including the journals. He further explained that they had not informed party representatives of the polls at the centre. He also stated that he had instructed the A.R.O to stop the polls considering the above and the A.R.O’s observations. According to him postal voting is rescheduled for 30th and 31st March. A similar incident was reported from the Matale General Hospital. According to W.K.W.S.Kumarawnasa, Medical Superintendent and the Certifying Officer, the postal voting of the centre is postponed to 30th and 31st March,as he could not inform the party representatives. CMEV contacted Kuamrawansa on this account. He informed CMEV that he did not receive some required information from the Election Department and managed to collect the documents only yesterday. According to him, he was unable to inform the party representative since he didn’t receive lists from the Returning Officer. CMEV contacted the Assistant Election Commissioner.He stated that he did not receive any information about the postponement of the postal voting at the centre as yet, and that he will look into the matter. Northern Province Manthi West Pradeshiya Sabha On 26th March, CMEV Field Monitor reported that all applications from the above centre were rejected due to late submission. CMEV learnt that 19 applications were submitted to the centre. CMEV contacted Samson Jennings, the Certifying Officer of the centre. He told CMEV that the applications for postal voting had been sent on the 24th of February and that the delay could be due to late delivery by the postal department. CMEV recorded a similar incident from the Mannar Police Station in which 56 out of 399 applications were rejected due to late submission. On 25th March, CMEV received reports that 150-200 applications for postal voting from the Vavuniya STF camp were rejected due to various reasons. CMEV Field Monitor visited the Security Forces Head Quarters, Vanni and CI A.D.G.P.Amarasinghe informed him that there are several STF camps within the Vanni region and that a number of applications for postal voting from each camp were rejected due to various reasons. He explained that the total is not from a particular camp. Election Violence CMEV received reports regarding intra and inter party clashes between candidates and supporters of both leading political parties during the last two days. Recent incidents are highlighted below: UPFA supporters assaulted in Kinniya On 25th March, CMEV received reports regarding an attack on the supporters of UPFA candidate Najeeb A Majeed(candidate no 03). According UPFA District Coordinator, Mr.Faris, they were assaulted by the supporters of UNP candidate M.S.Thowfeek(candidate no 06) near the Jawahir Junction ,Kinniya at around 06.40 pm. Two UPFA supporters were severely injured due to the attack and initially admitted to the Kinniya Hospital Base Hospital and transferred to the Trincomalee General Hospital. CMEV learnt that A.Mubaris known as Ramzi, a victim, has been transferred to the Kandy General Hospital on 26th March, subsequently. On 26th March CMEV contacted the Kinniya Police Station, Election OIC, Karunaratne informed CMEV that they have not yet received a complaint regarding the attack and that they came to know about the incident last night. He further noted that the attack was not politically motivated. UPFA supporter assaulted in Medirigiriya On 24th March at around 03.20 pm, Shantha Abeyaratne, a UPFA supporter, was assaulted by a group of supporters of UNP candidate Sidney Jayaratne(candidate no 03) who came in a van(58-6644) belonging to the candidate, in Al-Hilalpura, Pulasthigama, Medirigiriya. The victim was admitted to ward no 10 of the Polonnaruwa General Hospital
25th March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV is deeply concerned by reports alleging attempts to disenfranchise postal voters by officials in their capacity as certifying officers in particular. CMEV deployed 185 Mobile Monitors and 150 Stationary Monitors today (25 March 2010) to monitor the postal voting and intends to have the same deploy tomorrow. CMEV recorded 25 postal voting related incidents today. As of 24th March CMEV has recorded a cumulative total of 192 incidents including 121 Major Incidents. The Major Incidents related to the postal voting are highlighted below: Sabaragamuwa Province Zonal Education Office, Warakapola On 24th March CMEV received a complaint from Dedigama UNP party office alleging that 05 non- government employees were included in the list of postal voters. According the list M.P.Jayaweera of 4th Regiment, Palali, has been named as the certifying officer. On 25th CMEV contacted a voter who was named in the above list. He stated that he is not a government employee and that he was not aware of how his name came to be included on the postal voting list. He suspects that someone has intentionally done this in order to deny his voting rights, as he is a UNP supporter. When contacted Mr.Jayaweera informed CMEV that he is a government teacher at Nivatuwa Maha Vidyalaya and that he had also applied for postal voting and marked his postal vote at Zonal Education Office, Warakapola today. He further explained that he came to know about the incident yesterday through the Grama Niladhari of his division and that his forged signature has been used in the application. CMEV contacted P.A. Senaratne, Assistant Election Commissioner of Kegalle District. He informed CMEV that mistakenly their names were replaced with similar names of government employees. He said that they have been identified and that postal ballots were not sent to them. He further assured CMEV that he has taken measures to make arrangements for them to cast their votes on 08th April. On 25th March at around 03.10 pm, CMEV contacted the Kegalle District Returning Officer, Mrs.D.M.P.Dissanayake on this account. She informed CMEV that she came to know about the incident yesterday evening and they have started an investigation into the matter. She also said that the perpetrators are yet to be identified. CMEV will raise the issue with the Election Commissioner and urge him to ensure a detailed investigation into the incident. Rambukana Pradeshiya Sabah According to the CMEV Monitor, as of 11.30 am, a double cab(252-6894), a tipper( CP LC 9201) and a van(SB TA 4399) were parked within the premises of Rambukana PS. The vehicles were decorated with the propaganda material of UPFA candidate Kanaka Herath(candidate no 04). Fifty –two (52) postal votes were registered at the centre. Central Province Leminiar Tami Vidyalayam,Nuwara-Eliya On 25th March, CMEV received reports regarding an alleged attempt to deny voters’ rights in Nuwara-Eliya. According to two teachers of Leminiar Tamil Vidyalaya, namely Saraswathi Pawani and Mrs.Rajakumran, they did not receive their postal ballots though they had applied for postal voting. They alleged that the Principal of the School did not submit their applications as they are supporters of National Union of Workers, an ally of UNP. A.Nagarajah a UNP Member of the Kotagala Pradeshiya Sabha informed CMEV that the two teachers were the only postal voters who did not receive postal ballots. He alleges that the principal did this on purpose to deny UNF voters of the franchise. CMEV contacted the Zonal Education Office, Nuwara-Eliya, B.Dharmasisiri Ranasinghe, an administrative officer of the department. He told CMEV that they were not sent postal ballots because their applications had not been received. Uva Province Mahiyangana Zonal Education Office: At around 03.35 pm CMEV Field Monitor reported that 245 applications for postal voting were rejected by the respective Zonal Education Director, Mr.Susil Wijeyatilaka due to late submission. CMEV contacted Susil Wijetilaka who informed CMEV that he received applications from staff until 26th of February and due to the transportation problems he was unable to submit the applications on the due date. He further stated that he informed the Assistant Election Commissioner’s Office on 26th February that he was unable to handover the applications on the due date and an officer instructed him to send the applications by post. Mr.Susil Wijetialka has sent the applications by post, they were rejected and he has no record of who he spoke to. CMEV contacted A.T.M.Talangama, Assistant Election Commissioner of the Badulla District. He stated that they acted according the rules and that the deadlines given by the Election Commissioner and the Director of Mahiyangana Zonal Education Office was responsible for his delay. CMEV has learnt that most of the applicants have applied for election duty and might lose their right to vote. Western Province Maharagama Urban Council At around 01.00 pm, CMEV Field Monitor reported that UPFA candidate Sudharman Radaliyagoda(candidate no 05) and a group of supporters wearing T-Shirts and Caps displaying the candidate’s number were seen within the premises of the Council. At around 01.20 pm, R.A.Somawathi, Certifying Officer of the centre, informed CMEV that they were present in the morning and that she had instructed them to leave the premises. She further stated that since she was inside the building, she was not aware of whether they have entered again . She assured CMEV that she would look into the matter. Forest Department Head Office, Malabe On 25th March, the CMEV Field Monitor reported that 19 postal vote applications were rejected due to their late submission. Eastern Province CMEV Field Monitors reported that they found the tops of ballot paper envelopes stuck in several postal voting centres. CMEV recorded 02 instances from the Paddiruppu electorate and 01 incident from the Batticaloa electorate. CMEV contacted the Assistant Election Commissioner of Batticaloa, T. Krishnanandalingam. He informed CMEV that this was a mistake and that they had deployed a mobile team to re-issue valid envelopes to postal voters. Kinniya Urban Council At around 11.10 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a black Pajero(WP
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25th March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka CMEV field reports reveal that candidates and their supporters engage in electioneering within the vicinity of postal voting centres. Western Province Kalutara Pradeshiya Sabah At around 09.20 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a ‘12X6’ cut-out of incumbent Minister of Nation Building and UPFA candidate Rohitha Abeyagunawardhana(candidate no 03) and another cut-out of Nirmala Kothalawala(candidate no 09) were displayed within the vicinity of the Kalutara Pradeshiya Sabah(PS). CMEV contacted Geethani, the Secretary and Certifying Officer of the Kalutara PS, who told CMEV that she had instructed the officials to remove the cutouts yesterday. She assured CMEV that she will take speedy measures to remove the cutouts. Sixteen (16) postal votes were registered at the Kalutara PS. Zonal Education Office Meerigama According to the CMEV Monitor, two women claiming to be representatives of UPFA candidate Basil Rajapakshe(candidate no 16) are recording the details of individual postal voters of the respective centre. They verbally threatened the CMEV Monitor when he questioned them about this. Two postal voting centres are situated in the department. One hundred and sixty one (161) and ninety-one (91) votes were recorded at these centres. A similar incident was reported from the Survey Department, Meerigama. Twelve (12) postal votes were registered at the department. On contacting his office, CMEV was informed that Mr Basil Rajapaksha was not available as he was in a meeting. Sabaragamuwa Province Deraniyagala Pradeshiya Sabha At around 09.30 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a ‘10X5’ cutout of UPFA candidate, H.R.Mithrapala(candidate no 03) was displayed within the premises of the Deraniyagala PS. Another cutout of UPFA candidate Kanaka Herath(candidate no 04) was also prominently displayed at the entrance gate of the Deraniyagala PS. Ten (10) postal votes were registered at the Deraniyagala PS. According to the CMEV Field Monitor, a jeep (WP JR 3456) belonging to Mithrapala was also parked within the premises of Deraniyagala PS. Southern Province Akuressa Depot At around 09.30 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a medium size cutout of UPFA candidate Manoj Sirisena(candidate no 05) was displayed within the premises of the Akuressa Depot. Seventeen (17) votes were registered at the centre. North Western Province Mundalam Divisional Secretariat At around 09.30 am CMEV Field Monitor reported that a large number of posters of UPFA candidate, Victor Antony (candidate no 06) were pasted on the wall of the Mundalam Divisional Secretariat. Fifty (50) postal votes were registered at the centre. According to CMEV Field Monitor, within the 50m radius of the Mundalam Divisional Secretariat small size cutouts of UPFA candidate Milroy Ferenando(candidate no 10) were displayed along the road. Nathandiya Divisional Secretariat At around 10.10 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a van (NW HU 9813) decorated with the propaganda material of UPFA candidate Arundika Fernando(candidate no 04) was parked opposite the Nathandiya Divisional Secretariat. Sixty one (61) postal votes were registered at the above centre. Northern Province Valvettiturai Urban Council At around 10.15 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that two ACTC supporters on motor bicycles issued pocket calendars and handouts in support of ACTC candidates Gajendra Kumara Ponnambalm(candidate no 02) and Sinnathurai Varatharajan(candidate no 10) opposite the Valvettiturai Urban Council. According to the CMEV Monitor, the Valvettiturai Police Station is located nearby. Twenty three (23) and fifty-nine (59) postal votes were registered respectively from Valvettiturai Urban Council and Valvettiturai Police station. Eastern Province Zonal Education Office, Pattiruppu At around 10.40 am, the CMEV Field Monitor reported that a white Dolphin van (62-5039) with the photographs and posters of TULF candidate, Krishnapillai known as Vellimali (candidate no 03) was parked inside the Zonal Education Office. Two hundred and forty one (241) postal votes were registered from the department.
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23 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV continues to receive reports regarding the misuse of public resources for electioneering. CMEV has recorded 32 (29%) cases of public property misuse out of the 110 confirmed Major Incidents as of 22nd March 2010. Attack on MTV/MBC Media CMEV unreservedly condemns the attack on the MBC/MTV office located at Braybrook Place, Colombo, yesterday 22nd March 2010. CMEV has learnt that one of the buses used to transport the attackers was from the Kelaniya Bus Depot. On 22nd March CMEV contacted the Slave Island Police Station, CI Malin Perera, informed us that according to the statements recorded from the arrested persons, some of them are supporters of UPFA candidate Duminda de Silva (candidate no 08) who were on their way to a musical show organized by him. Duminda de Silva categorically denied the involvement of his supporters in the incident. Whilst the precise motivation for the attack has yet to be established, CMEV notes that it took place in the heart of the capital in the afternoon and against a media organization that has been attacked before. The attack, in the context of a general election in particular, adversely impacts the free flow of information, public perceptions in respect of their access to information and the Rule of Law. CMEV calls on the Police to take effective and speedy action against the attackers without fear or favour. Repeated reports regarding the misuse of public property CMEV Field Monitor reported that a meeting was held on 23rd March at the Ashraff-Athaullah Memorial Hall, Pottuvil for school teachers and principals at around 12.00 pm. According to the CMEV Field Monitor, UPFA candidates namely A.H.Abdul Basheer(candidate no 03),A.M.Lebbe(candidate no 05) and A.M.Athaullah(candidate no 02) and Eastern Provincial Council Minister of Road Development, Irrigation, Housing and Construction, Rural Electrification and Water Supply Uduman Lebbe addressed the gathering. CMEV learnt that the schools in the Pottuvil area were closed at around 10.30am on the 23rd in order that the principals and teachers could attend the above meeting. CMEV contacted Mr.Muthalif, Deputy Director of Akkaraipattu Zonal Education Department, who said that permission had not been granted to close schools on the 23rd. He further stated that he came to know that it was the Ministry of Education of the Eastern Provincial Council that had given approval. Secretary of the Eastern Provincial Council Ministry of Education Mr.Weerawardhana, informed CMEV that this was not the case, that he was not aware of the incident and that he would look into the matter. Mannar: on 22nd March CMEV received reports regarding the misuse of a building and staff of the National Youth Council, Mannar in the campaign of the incumbent Minister of Re-settlement and Disaster Relief Services and UPFA candidate Rishard Badiudeen(candidate no 01). Reportedly, a meeting for organizers and supporters of Rishad Badiudeen was held on 22nd March at the Council. CMEV contacted the National Youth Council, Mannar and an officer attached to the council denied that such a meeting took place. Attempts to contact Rishard Badiudeen were not successful. Jaffna: According to CMEV Field Monitor UPFA candidate for Jaffna District, Alexander Charles (candidate no 04) has conducted a meeting in the Kachai Government Tamil Mixed School on 18th March 2010 at around 01.30 pm When contacted, Alexander Charles, categorically denied the allegation. Nuwaraeliya: Allegedly the incumbent Minister of Youth Empowerment and Socio Economic Development and UPFA candidate Arumugan Ramanathen Thondaman(candidate no 10) conducted a meeting at Pathana College of Education main hall on 17th March 2010. CMEV learnt that five principles of government schools and trainees attached to the college also attended the meeting. Three of them were identified as the Principles of Barathi Maha Vidyalya, Highlands Central College and Kotagala Tamil Maha Vidyalaya, respectively. CMEV Field Monitor reported that a lorry (CP PA 5267) belonging to the Kotagala Pradeshiya Saba is being used in the campaign of UPFA candidate Shanthini Chandrasekran(candidate no 09).N.Sadasivam, a UPF Praseshiya Sabah Member from Kotagala, denied the allegation. CMEV welcomes the Election Commissioner’s guidelines prohibiting public property misuse and highlights the section 104B (4) (a) of the 17th amendment to the Constitution, which clearly states that; The Commission shall have the power during the period of an election, to prohibit the use of any movable or immovable property belonging to the State or any public corporation We urge the Commissioner to exercise the powers vested on him in the interests of protecting and strengthening the integrity of the electoral process. As of 22nd March 2010 CMEV has recorded a cumulative total of 170 incidents including 110(64%) Major Incidents. The Use of Firearms has risen to 31(28%). CMEV has recorded 22 Major Incidents from the Central Province, 17 from the North Western, 16 from Sabaragamuwa, 12 from the Eastern Province, 11 from Uva, 09 from the Southern Province, 08 each from the Western and Northern Provinces and 07 from North Western Province. CMEV has received 127 complaints against the UPFA, 25 of which were made by party members. The UNP was accused in 07 incidents, whilst in 35 cases the party affiliation of the perpetrators has not been identified. CMEV has recorded a complaint against an independent group contesting in Badulla. ### Download this PDF in Sinhala and Tamil.
Colombo, Sri Lanka: As of 20th March, CMEV has recorded a cumulative total of 146 incidents of which 87 have been categorized as Major. The number of incidents involving the Use of Firearms has risen to 29. Some of the recent incidents of election related violence are highlighted below. Download as Sinhala PDF or as Tamil PDF. Arson attack on Lorry of UPFA supporter, Eravur, Batticaloa On 20th March at around 12.30 am a lorry belonging to UPFA supporter, Ibrahim Raheem, was set on fire by an unidentified group in Gandhi Road, Eravur. A complaint (ECIB 29/10) has been lodged with the Eravur Police Station by Ibrahim Raheem in this regard. CMEV Field Monitor visited the scene of the incident recorded a statement from Ibrahim Raheem. He informed the CMEV monitor that he is a UPFA supporter and that his vehicle is used for UPFA campaigning. According to the CMEV monitor, the front part of the lorry has been completely burnt as a result of the attack. A.C.M.Sayed, Officer in-charge of UPFA candidate, Ali Zahir Moulana(candidate no 02) told CMEV that his vehicle is used to transport furniture for the UPFA meetings and he is an active supporter of the party. C.G.A.S.Piyaratne, OIC, Eravur Police confirmed to CMEV that the incident had occurred and stated that further investigations are underway. Attack on UNP vehicle convoy in Alankuda, Puttalam According to A.M.Husain, SLMC working committee member, on 19th March 2010 at around 04.00pm a UNP party office located near ‘B’ Camp ,Alankuda was attacked by a group of supporters of incumbent Minister of Re-settlement and Disaster Relief Services and UPFA candidate for Vanni District, Rishard Badiudeen(candidate no 01). Jamsir, a UNP supporter, sustained minor injuries on his left hand due to the attack. At around 08.00pm another attack on a vehicle convoy of UNP candidates Noordeen Mashoor(candidate no 05), A.K.S.Hameethu(candidate no 01) and M.H.Rinos(candidate no 08) was carried out by the supporters of Rishard Badiudeen near the play ground Kalmunaikudi-B, Alankuda. Thirteen (13) vehicles were damaged due to the attack and the estimated loss is 240,000Rs, according to Mr.Hussain. Mr.Hussain further alleged that the STF was also involved in the incident and had assaulted the UNPers. Minister Rishad Badiudeen was not contactable. CMEV Field Monitor visited the Kalpitiya Police Station on 20th March to get further details regarding the incidents, but the Police did not provide any information. Attempts by the CMEV secretariat to get details from the Police were also not successful. CMEV has recorded 09 incidents from the Puttalam Electorate of which 07 are from Kalpitiya Police area. Only one complaint had been lodged with the Kalpitiya Police. In two cases complainants directly alleged that the Police is biased towards the ruling party and that they have no trust in them. Alleged mislead of voters in Chilaw On 20th March CMEV learnt that a letter dated 05th March 2010 under the signature of the President of Sri Lanka Freedom Graduate Association, Udula Nuwan Pathirana, has been circulated in Chilaw, Puttalam. The letter requests graduates who wish to be employed in the government sector to go house -to -house campaigning for the UPFA for at least 20 days. CMEV contacted Udula Nuwan Pathirana who denied the allegation and stated that a letter is being circulated within the Chilaw Polling Division with his forged signature. He also stated that he has informed UPFA organizer for the Chilaw electorate and candidate, Neomal Perera (candidate no 07) of this. CMEV contacted Neomal Perera who stated that he was not aware of the circulation of such a letter. He categorically denied the allegation that the party has decided to provide jobs only to those who campaign for them.
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19 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV is deeply concerned by the misuse of state resources for campaigning purposes and the increased use of firearms. Violence Profile As of 18th March 2010, CMEV has confirmed 115 incidents of election related violence including 75(65%) Major Incidents since the closure of nomination on 26th February. Out of the confirmed 75 major incidents 25(33%) are instances of the misuse of public property for electioneering. Incidents involving the use of fire arms have risen to 18 which constitute 25% of the Major Incidents. The 75 confirmed Major Incidents included 06 incidents of Hurt, 03 instances of Grievous Hurt, 22 Assaults resulting in injuries, 14 instances of Threat & Intimidation, 25 instances of the Misuse of State Resources and 05 incidents of Arson. Misuse of State Resources: CMEV has recorded 06 such incidents from the Kurunalgala District; in three instances the incumbent Minister of Nation Building and UPFA candidate Salinda Dissanyake(candidate no 17) and his supporters have been accused of misusing three double cabs(252-6010,WP HI 2766 and WP PB 2271)and a CDMA phone(0114945974) belonging to the respective ministry. CMEV’s repeated attempts to contact Salinda Dissanayake were not successful. A building constructed for the welfare of the Army soldiers in Galgamuwa is being used as a party office of UPFA candidate, Taranath Basnayake(candidate no 15) CMEV contacted the Divisional Secretariat of Galgamuwa. An officer, who did not want to reveal his name, confirmed the incident and told CMEV that the building is now being administered by the Galgamuwa Village Development Society. A building belonging to the Zonal Education Office of Nuwaraeliya is being used in the campaign of incumbent Minister of Livestock Development and UPFA candidate C.B.Ratnayake(candidate no 02). CMEV contacted the Zonal Education Office of Nuwareliya on 18th March. An officer there told CMEV on the condition of anonymity, that a ministry sub office of Minister of Livestock Development, C.B.Ratnayake has been run in the old building of the department. When CMEV contacted C.B.Ratnayake, he denied the allegation. CMEV received reports regarding the misuse of a cab (WP JL 5264) belonging to a road construction project implemented by the Sabragamuwa Provincial Council. It has been used for the campaigning activities of UPFA candidate Kanaka Herath(candidate no 04). CMEV contacted the office of the Chief Secretary of the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council. An officer of the Council told CMEV that the vehicle was given to the project office by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), that they have no information regarding the vehicle and that he was not aware of the incident. CMEV contacted Kanaka Hereth on 18th March who categorically denied the allegation. According to CMEV monitor a Mitsubishi Cab (52-2425) belonging to the Mahaweli Authority has been used to transport a cutout of incumbent minister of Agricultural Development and Agrarian Services,Maithiripala Sirisena(candidate no 07), from Sevanapitiya to Welikanda on 18th March 2010. Resident Project Manager of Mahaweli Authority, Polonnaruwa who did not mention his name admitted that the vehicle belongs to the authority and stated that he is not aware about the incident. Increased intra -party violence: Another alarming trend in the lead up to the election is the struggle for preferential votes which leads to intra party clashes. Of the 91 complaints against the UPFA 23(25%) complaints have been made by party supporters. Five (05) instances of intra-party violence have been reported from the Southern Province. In Sabaragamuwa, firearms have been used in 05 out of 12 Major Incidents. CMEV has recorded 03 such incidents from the Eastern Province and 02 incidents each from the North Central and Western Provinces. CMEV also received reports of 01 incident each from the North Western and Central Provinces. CMEV highlights below a recent incident of involving the use of firearms in the Kurunagala District. On 17th March at around 10.30 pm, supporters of UPFA candidate R.D.Wimaladasa(candidate no 06) who arrived in a white Canter assaulted a group of supporters of UNP candidate Nilwala Wijesinghe(candidate no 11) when they were having dinner after a meeting held at Nilwala’s residence located in Ridigama. Five (05) UNP supporters sustained injuries due to the attack and were admitted to the Kurunegala General Hospital. CMEV Field Monitor visited the hospital on 18th March and recorded statements from the victims. According Anuara Munasinghe, a UNP supporter, the perpetrators assaulted them with wooden batons and when the other UNP supporters attempted to stop the attack, the perpetrators had fired in the air. Reportedly a bystander also sustained minor injuries to his head due to the panic caused by gunshots. According to CMEV Field Monitor, Ridhigama Police confirms the incident and is carrying out further investigation in this regard. CMEV calls upon the leaders of all political parties, especially the ruling alliance against which the majority of allegations of election related violence have been made, to take immediate and effective steps to halt the violence perpetrated by their candidates and supporters which is a clear threat to the integrity of the electoral process and democracy in Sri Lanka. CMEV’s experience with multiple elections is that violence perpetrated during the campaign impacts adversely on polling by setting a context for an ostensibly violence free election day in favour of those who have perpetrated violence with impunity during the campaign. It is therefore of the utmost importance for the integrity of the electoral process that violence perpetrated during the campaign period is deterred and the perpetrators of violence brought to account. In this context, we reiterate the argument consistently advanced by CMEV regarding the urgency and pivotal importance of the full implementation of the Seventeenth Amendment. CMEV believes that the establishment of independent commissions for the Police, Public Service and Elections provided for by the Amendment, is absolutely necessary for protecting the integrity of the electoral process. CMEV has commenced the monitoring of the Parliamentary Election and fielded 180 Monitors. CMEV will be deploying 4,500 Stationary Observers in polling stations and 50 Mobile Teams on Election Day. ### Download as a PDF in Sinhala and
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