IGP Issue Will Not Hinder Presidential Polls - Mahinda Deshapriya

COLOMBO (News 1st) - Former Chairman of the Election Commission Mahinda Deshapriya said that during electoral periods, correspondence typically directed to the IGP is concurrently addressed to the Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police.

"If needed, an acting IGP can be appointed through the mechanisms of the Police Commission, Public Service Commission, or by recourse to the Supreme Court," Deshapriya said.

"Alternatively, the duties of the IGP can be temporarily fulfilled by a Senior Deputy Inspector General. Directives can also be issued via the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Security."

Deshapriya stressed that these administrative measures effectively mitigate any potential disruption posed by the IGP's suspension.

He criticized assertions suggesting otherwise and questioned the legality of Supreme Court decisions, asserting that such arguments undermine the rights of individuals.

"As I always assert, even amid unprecedented challenges, the presidential election will proceed as scheduled before October 17," Deshapriya said. "In my professional opinion, the issue surrounding the IGP does not present an obstacle to conducting the election."