Polls chief stresses not to exert undue influence over election related matters

COLOMBO (News1st): Sri Lanka's polls chief has stressed that undue influence cannot be exerted on matters concerning the general election, citing that he is the authority to make decisions in that regard. "We will, however, consider all opinions brought to our attention," Mahinda Deshapriya, the chairman of the national election commission (NEC) said on Facebook, hours ahead of a meeting to decide on the poll. He said that the election body would take a decision based on the current situation of the country, and the need to conduct a free and fair election with a level playing field for all candidates. "I will also consult experts involved in combatting COVID-19, and other relevant state officials before arriving at a final decision," Deshapriya said in a Facebook post. The President and the Prime Minister have called on the NEC to announce the date of the poll - drawing heavy criticism in the backdrop of a pandemic. The polls chief has however said he would not divulge details discussed within the NEC through the media, adding that he would not provide his personal opinion as well. "I am on the side of the constitution, democracy, and the people," he remarked.