Plans to ban campaigning near schools

Rasika SOMARATHNA

Mahinda Deshapriya

The Elections Commissioner is planning to impose a total ban on election campaigns and the use of loudspeakers close to schools designated as examination centres (during examination hours) at the forthcoming polls to elect members to the Eastern, North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils.

The GCEAdvanced Level examination is dated for August and the political campaigning in the provinces holding elections is expected to be in full swing during this time .

The Governors of the Eastern, North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councils declared the dissolution of the councils with effect from midnight on June 27 . The Elections Commissioner is expected to announce the date for the elections on July 19 when nominations close .

Elections Commissioner Mahinda Deshapriya told media yesterday he will will hold a meeting with political party representatives, education authorities, the Police and other stake holders today to decide on the move .

"This is a request from the Examinations Department. We too agree with it fully, and consider the request as a blessing in disguise to prevent such acts. We will discuss it with political parties today and those who disagree will be exposed," the Commissioner said. He said he will propose to political parties to refrain from holding election rallies, using loudspeakers and other propaganda which could affect the education activities of students during the examination period. Deshapriya said public and political activists should work together to prevent such activities .