The Centre for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) visited selected
areas of the North and East from 22 -25 December 2009 to identify the
issues pertaining to the voter application process for displaced
persons, the availability of required identification documents and the
general context in which the campaign is being conducted. CMEV met with
Government officials, political party representatives, leading civil
society actors including religious leaders, the media, academics, and
displaced persons.
- CMEV notes with concern the number of applications – 31,758 –
received by the Department of Elections as of 28th December. This
figure could be lower since some applications may be rejected. CMEV
calls on the Election Commissioner to ensure that every displaced voter
who is registered in the 2008 Electoral Register will be able to vote.
Considering the issues and confusion pertaining to the application
process and given the assurances by senior election officials, CMEV
urges the Election Commissioner to issue a special notice to the
displaced voters enumerating the application procedure and requisite
voter identity documentation, thereby ensuring that neither of these
factors will inhibit the fullest exercise of the franchise by displaced
persons. CMEV also urges the Commissioner and election officials to
make sure that the displaced voters are aware of the location of
cluster and special polling centres through their Grama Niladharis and
Camp Officers. - CMEV calls on the media and civil society organizations to assist
the Commissioner’s office as well as through initiatives of their own,
on voter education. - CMEV calls upon the Commissioner and colleagues to establish an
effective mechanism in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Transport Board
to assure proper transportation facilities for displaced voters. CMEV
urges the line ministry to consider this as a matter of priority and
recommends that the Election Commissioner establish a special committee
to look into the transportation arrangements.
Read the full report in English, Sinhala and Tamil.
Presidential Elections 2010: Field Visit Report, December 2009