Total number of Incidents: 413

Major incidents: 231
Minor incidents: 182
Firearms involved: 55

Intra party disputes
UPFA against UPFA – 78
UNP against UNP – 2

Details here in Sinhala, Tamil and English.

6th April 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV has received reports from the Puttalam and Batticaloa Districts alleging preparations for voter impersonation in the polls on the 08^th. CMEV urges the Commissioner to investigate these allegations and ensure that all action is taken to prevent voter impersonation.

Illegal applications under displaced category in Puttalam District

On 30^th March, CMEV received a copy of the letter, addressed to the Election Commissioner, from UNP candidate for Vanni District Noordeen Mashoor regarding illegal voter applications under the displaced category in the Puttalm District.

In the letter, he alleged that this was done on the instigation of the incumbent Minister and UPFA candidate Rishard Badiudeen. The letter mentions that most of such voters currently reside in Colombo and Panadura. The rest are either living abroad or have died.

On contacting Noordeen Mashoor’s Office, CMEV was informed that in centres highlighted in the letter, there was a remarkable increase in the number of voters compared to the last presidential election. Manalkunru(PD No.29D), Cassim city(PD No.42D/3), Veppamadu(PD No.23 D/1), Alankuda(PD No.54/D1 & 54D/2), Ulukkappallam(PD No.77D/1& 77/2), Hidayath Nagar(PD No.86D) and Thillayady(PD No.40D) in the Puttalam District and Salampapuram (PD No.43D) in the Anurdhapura District were highlighted in the letter.

An officer attached to Mashoor’s office told CMEV that a list highlighting every individual’s current status has been prepared in order to identify the illegal applications. According to him, there are around 6,000 such voters. He also informed CMEV that the copies have been given to the Election Commissioner and respective Returning Officer and Assistant Election Commissioner. He said that they were awaiting action in this regard.

On contacting the Assistant Election Commissioner and the Returning Officer of Puttalam, CMEV learnt that they have started investigations into the matter. On 02^nd April CMEV was told by the Assistant Election Commissioner-Puttalam Mr.A.O.M.Nafeel that in a random check they did based on the list they received from the complainant, they identified around 27 applications with forged signatures of Grama Niladharis. He further explained that since they do not have an updated list of people residing in the camps, it is difficult to compare the lists. He also said that they did not have enough time and resources to conduct a check on an individual basis. He stated that after the consultation with the Commissioner, they would take a decision regarding the mater.

On 03^rd April CMEV learnt that the Commissioner issued a notice on the issue on 02^nd April. CMEV got a copy of the notice on 04^th April.

It is mentioned in the notice that 25,582 displaced voters (21,035 for Vanni and 4,547 for Jaffna) have applied under the displaced category and they will be allowed to cast their votes in centres to be set up in the Puttalam District.

It is further noted in the notice that the lists of displaced voters under this category were displayed in the Puttalam and Mannar Election Offices and in the respective Divisional Secretariats a week ago. They subsequently received complaints from some voters in Mannar that they did not apply under this category. Accordingly, they will be allowed to vote in their regular polling centres in Mannar, the notice states.

It is also stated in the notice that they have identified some applications with forged details and signatures and that in many cases Grama Niladaris had not attested the applications.

CMEV has learnt that applications of those living abroad and deceased were submitted with forged signatures.  This is also mentioned in the notice.

It is explained in the notice that the Puttalam Assistant Election Commissioner’s Department attempted to get a list of people over 18 yrs through the respective Returning Officer. However, the lists have yet to be submitted by the respective camp officers. Therefore, it is difficult to conduct a fair poll in 37 centres set up in the Puttalam District.

The notice instructs displaced voters to get their respective camp officer and Grama Niladari to attest the form issued by the Department of Election. However there are concerns in respect of the former since camp officers are appointed by Rishard Badiudeen’s ministry and with the time period available for this.

On 05^th April CMEV contacted the respective Returning Officer in this regard, he informed CMEV that the Commissioner has issued another notice today considering all the issues. According to him a declaration will be obtained from voters at the discretion of the SPOs or if a polling agent objects, according to the section 43 of the Parliamentary Elections Act. Measures will be taken to inform the people through Grama Niladharis.

CMEV notes that this is not the first time illegal applications have been submitted from the Puttalam District. During the Jaffna MC and Vavuniya UC Elections, 488 such applications were found and removed by the Election Commissioner. Moreover, the annulment of results in a polling centre due to malpractices has also happened in the Puttalm District in the recent past.

CMEV notes with concern the lack of preparedness for the conduct of the polls and underscores the lack of an updated list of people residing in the camps, though displacement occurred 20 years ago. .

CMEV calls upon the respective Returning Officer and Assistant Election Commissioner to act fast to effectively communicate the message to the concerned people and to remove the confusion arising from constant changes of the procedures within a very short period.

Allegations of preparation for systematic voter impersonation

On 04^th April CMEV received a copy of a letter, addressed to the Election Commissioner on 30^th March 2010, from UNP candidate for the Batticaloa District U.L.M.N.Mubeen

He alleged, in the letter, that a UPFA candidate plans large- scale voter impersonation using forged NICs.

The letter states that the candidate in question has visited the town to collect the details of traders who are voters in the Batticaloa Distric but currently residing outside the Distrixt for business purposes. It is also alleged that the candidate has collected a copies of the latter’s NICs for purposes of impersonation.

The letter alleges that Mr.Abdul Raheem known as Rupavahini Raheem has been assigned the task of forging NICs and that the candidate has engaged in impersonation in previous elections, including the last Eastern Provincial Council Election.

The letter requests the Commissioner to inform the Police of this and recommends that election officials from Kattankudy not be appointed to this area.  Likewise election monitors.

CMEV reiterates its call to the Commissioner to act to ensure that voter impersonation as alleged does not take place.

Summary of incidents received to CMEV by 4.30 p.m. 2nd April 2010.

Total number of Incidents: 307
Major incidents: 178
Minor incidents: 129
Firearms involved: 43

Details here in Sinhala, Tamil and English.

31 March 2010, Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV notes with concern the intensification of both inter and intra party violence in the lead up to the polls on 08^th April. CMEV highlights the increasing number of assaults, resulting in injuries, hurt and grievous hurt. CMEV has confirmed 72 such incidents, which constitute 44% of the confirmed total of 161 Major incidents.

Recent incidents of election related violence are highlighted below;

Lack of Coordination between Election Officials

On 31^st March CMEV learnt that the CMEV District Coordinator in Badulla was officially informed by the Assistant Election Commissioner of the Badulla District, T.A.C.N.Talangama in his letter dated on 24^th March that CMEV and PAFFEREL Mobile Monitors would not be allowed into the polling booths.

The Election Commissioner has given approval for CMEV and PAFFEREL Mobile Monitors to enter polling centres in which their Stationary Monitors are not deployed, in his letter dated 06^th March 2010.  The letter was addressed to all the Returning Officers, Deputy, Senior and Assistant Election Commissioners.

CMEV contacted the respective Assistant Election Commissioner.  The latter informed CMEV that in a meeting with the Election Commissioner, they were told that local Mobile Observers would not be allowed to enter the polling centres. He further stated that he was not aware of the letter of 06^th March.

When CMEV contacted the Election Department in this regard, the Additional Election Commissioner, W.P. Sumansiri stated that he was only aware of the Commissioner’s approval to local Monitors to enter polling centres and that he was not aware of this approval being withdrawn, as stated in the Assistant Election Commissioner’s letter.

CMEV has written to the Election Commissioner and the Respective Assistant Election Commissioner in this regard with relevant references.

Intra party disputes

CMEV continues to receive reports regarding intra party violence. CMEV has recorded 58 instances of UPFA intra party violence of which 45 are categorized as Major. CMEV received 01 such incident (Major) against the UNP in the Kurunegala District.

CMEV has confirmed 10 UPFA intra party clashes from the Anuradhapura District, while 07 such incidents have been reported from the Matara District. CMEV has confirmed 06 Major incidents of UPFA intra party violence from the Badulla District. Six (06) intra party clashes are reported from the Ratnapura District. Four (04) such instances were reported from the Matale, Nuwara-Eliya and Gampaha Districts respectively. Three (03) incidents each of UPFA intra party violence were received from the Kalutara and Puttalam Districts. Furthermore, 02 each incidents were reported from the Kegalle, Kandy, Monaragala, Vanni and Digamadulla Districts.  One (01) incident of UPFA intra party violence is reported from the Kurunagala District.

Abduction reported in Puttalam: CMEV Field Monitor reported that M.Riflas, a member of the political wing of the People Revival Front, was abducted by an unknown group on 31^st March at around 11.25 am in Madina Nagar, Palavi.

CMEV contacted M.Munafdeen, Secretary of the People Revival Front. He informed CMEV that the perpetrators traveled in a red Pickup Truck (2007/2008 CC). He suspected them of being supporters of the incumbent Minister of Re-settlement and Disaster Relief Services and UPFA candidate for the Vanni District, Rishard Badiudeen(candidate no 01).

CMEV learnt that Riflas was released at around 12.30 pm today and that the party is an ally of the UPFA.

When CMEV contacted Riflas, he said that he was abducted by Mujahir- who reportedly is associated with RsihardBadiudeen- and two others and brought to a UPFA party office near the Thillayadi Railway Station. He further stated that he was assaulted and verbally threatened by them not to engage in politics. According to him, a complaint had been lodged with the Puttlam Police Station and his statement was recorded by PC Nimal(41189)

CMEV contacted the Police. OIC Gunasekara informed CMEV that they came to know about the incident but no one had complained to the Police as yet. He further stated that when they investigated on the basis of information received, they came to know that the person allegedly abducted had been released.

Clash between two UPFA groups in Nuwaraeliya: CMEV received a complaint from S.B.Ratnayake, a brother of UPFA candidate C.B.Ratnayake (candidate no 02) that their supporters were assaulted by a group of supporters of the Chairman of the Central Provincial Council, Saliya Bandara Dissanayake in Udawatha Kumbura,Hanguranketha on 30^th March at around 12.30 pm. He alleged that around 20 supporters of Saliya Bandara Dissanayake assaulted his supporters with weapons. According to him, they were carrying a pistol, a repeater, a shotgun, 3.8 mm pistol and a sickle. They have identified 05 of the perpetrators namely D.V.J.Vithanage, Alfred Hettiarachchi, Siripala Siriwardhana, Nishantha Ratnayake and Ashoka Dissanayake. Ajantha Bandara, a supporter of C.B.Ratnayake, sustained head injuries. Two others were also injured in the attack.

CMEV learnt that Saliya Bandara Dissanyake campaigns in support of UPFA candidate Nimal Piyatissa (candidate no 01).

When CMEV contacted Saliya Bandara Dissanayke in this regard, he informed CMEV that supporters of C.B.Ratnayake unnecessarily increased the volume of the loudspeakers while they were passing land belonging to him and attempted to attack his supporters. He further stated that as a defensive measure his supporters attacked them.

CMEV contacted the Hanguranketha Police Station. Election OIC, Sarath Ariyananda, confirmed the incident and informed CMEV that they have received a complaint (EIB 44) from S.B.Ratnayake.

CMEV learnt that according to the Police complaint only one person was injured in the attack and that no one had been admitted to hospital.

Public Property Misuse

On 31^st March CMEV Field Monitor reported that propaganda materials of UPFA candidate Chamika Budhadasa (candidate no 03) were displayed in a blue Isuzu cab (253-7122) belonging to the Ministry of Health of the Uva Provinicial Council.

CMEV learnt that the candidate is son of the Uva Provincial Council Health Minister, A.H.M.Budhadasa.

On above CMEV contacted Chamika Budhadasa who categorically denied the allegation.

When CMEV contacted the Health Ministry of the Uva Provincial Council, Assistant Secretary, Mrs.P. Athiraja, informed CMEV that the vehicle is for official work of the Minister and that she is not aware of whether it was being used for campaigning activities..

DNA candidate assaulted in Matale

March CMEV Field Monitor reported that P.G.Sunil Shantha (candidate no 06) was assaulted by a supporter of UPFA candidate Lakshman Wasantha Perera(candidate no 01) near the Naula Bus Stand on 30^th March at around 12.45 pm. The victim was admitted to the Nalanada Divisional Hospital and discharged the following day.

CMEV contacted the victim. He informed CMEV that he was threatened against campaigning in the Naula area and then assaulted. He further stated that he lodged a complaint with the Naula Police Station in this regard.

Attempts to contact Lakshman Wasantha Perera were not successful.

As of 31^st March, CMEV has confirmed 277 incidents of election related violence including 161 Major Incidents. The Use of Fire- arms and the Misuse of Public Property has risen to 40 and 44 respectively.

All CMEV reports and communiqués and the CMEV Incidents Google Map can be accessed online at http://cmev.wordpress.com

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.

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 30^th 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 29^th 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 28^th 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 29^th 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 28^th March. Eight supporters of Mahindananda Aluthgamage sustained injuries due to the attack and were admitted to the Gampola Base Hospital.

On 30^th 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 28^th 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 05^th 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 29^th 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 29^th 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 29^th 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 26^th 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 27^th 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 27^th 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 29^th 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, Herath Banda Tennakoon(candidate no 13) who informed CMEV that according to the information he received from his supporters, the attack was carried out by supporters of Johnston Fernando and stated that a 50,00-100,000Rs estimated loss was incurred.

CMEV contacted Jhonston Fernando, he informed CMEV that he also came to know about the incident and denied the involvement of his supporters. He further told CMEV that one of his cut-outs was also damaged by an unknown group in Nikaweratiya on the same day.

CMEV learnt that no complaint had been lodged with the Police on this account.

ITAK candidate threatened in Batticaloa

0n 29^th March CMEV Field Monitor reported that a ITAK Party Office was attacked by a group of TMVP supporters allegedly led by the Eastern Provincial Council Chief Minister, Sivaneshanthurai Chandrakanthan at around 05.30 pm yesterday in Mamanga Pillayar Temple Road, Batticaloa.

When CMEV contacted ITAK candidate Yogeshwaran(candidate no 07), he informed CMEV that he was verbally threatened allegedly by Sivaneshanthurai Chandrakanthan 03 days before the attack. According to him, he was warned by Sivaneshanthurai Chandrakanthan not to get involved in politics and that if he did, he would be killed after the election.

CMEV contacted TMVP team leader and candidate, A. Selvendran(candidate no 01)who categorically denied both allegations. CMEV Field Monitor visited the Batticaloa Police Station and was informed that a complaint, (CIB 175/335), was lodged by Yogeshwaran in this regard and that further investigations are underway.

As of 28^th March CMEV has confirmed 254 incidents of election related violence including 149 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, 09 instances of Damage to Property, 07 instances each of Arson, Hurt and Grievous Hurt and 02 of Robbery.

CMEV has received 181 complaints against the UPFA and its allies, of which 53(29%) were by party members. The UNP is accused in 11 incidents. In 50 instances, the party affiliation of the perpetrators is not identified. CMEV has also received 04 complaints against the EPDP and 01 complaint each against the DNA and ITAK and an independent group contesting in the Badulla District. CMEV recorded a complaint against TMVP from Batticaloa.

All CMEV reports and communiqués and the CMEV Incidents Google Map can be accessed online at http://cmev.wordpress.com

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 26^th 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 03^rd 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 26^th 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 30^th and 31^st 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 30^th and 31^st 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 26^th 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 24^{th 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 25^th 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 25^th 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 26^th March, subsequently.

On 26^th 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 24^th 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 and subsequently discharged on 26^th March.

Sydney Jayaratne denied involvement in the incident and informed CMEV that he came to know that a complaint has been lodged against him in the Pulastigama Police Station.

CMEV Field Monitor visited the Pulastigama Police Station on 25^th March and confirmed the incident. According to him, a complaint (CIB2 52/131) has been lodged with the Police by the victim on the same day. Two accused and the vehicle involved in the incident were taken into the Police custody on 25^th morning.

Clash between UPFA supporters in Monaragala

On 25^th March 2010, CMEV received a complaint from UPFA candidate Vijitha Berugoda(candidate no 02) that UPFA candidate Vijitha Muni Soysa(candidate no 04) and his supporters attacked him and his supporters with wooden batons and stones. Three of his supporters were injured due to the attack and admitted to the Bibile District Hospital.

When contacted, Vijitha Muni Soysa informed CMEV that he was responsible for transporting people to the UPFA meeting held in Bibile yesterday, under the patronage of the President MahindaRajapakshe.  He alleges that when the people were transported to the meeting, supporters of Vijitha Berugoda obstructed them opposite his residence, and attacked the buses with stones.

CMEV learnt that both parties had made complaints to the Bibile Police Station.

On 26^th March CMEV contacted the Bibile Police Station. A women police officer, who did not mention her name, confirmed that they received a complaint (EIB 212/30) from Vijitha Muni Soysaand a counter complaint (EIB 229/40) from Vijitha Berugoda.

As of 26^th March CMEV has confirmed 214 incidents of election related violence, including 131 Major Incidents.Use of firearms has risen to 33.CMEV has confirmed 40 instances of the Misuse of Public Property for electioneering.

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 22^nd 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 22^nd 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 23^rd 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 23^rd.  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 22^nd 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 22^nd 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 18^th 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 17^th 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 17^th 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 22^nd 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.

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