Remove posters and cut-outs by Jan. 31 - Deshapriya

Elections Commission Chairman Mahinda Deshapriya yesterday requested that all posters and cut outs, including ones in elections offices be removed by January 31.

Deshapriya warned that those who do not comply would have the Police remove all posters for them.

“Though the law states that posters in all forms cannot be displayed during the election, the Elections Commission had previously decided that they would allow the candidates to display their posters at their election offices,” he said.

“This is a privilege we have granted, not a right.do not abuse it,” Deshapriya said, addressing a media briefing at the Elections Secretariat.

The Chairman also made an appeal to the public to report about illegal cut outs and posters to the Police or to remove them on their own.

“The public too has a responsibility to enforce these laws and we must oppose those who break the law,” the Elections Commission Chairman said.

Posters announcing national meetings or rallies too cannot have pictures of candidates contesting the election. The Commission has only allowed posters to print the basic details of meetings with a theme or slogan of the party.

“The Elections Commission has also decreed that only a maximum of 10 persons can visit homes during campaigning,” he added.

Deshapriya explained that according to the law, a group of 12 persons make up a procession and without proper permission, it becomes an illegal one. Furthermore, the assembly of more than five persons for a particular cause, without permission is considered illegal.

“The candidate can accompany these groups but they have to make sure that the number does not exceed 11,” Deshapriya added.

“In addition, candidates are not allowed to promise certain favours during their campaign or distribute goods in return for one’s vote. Both will be considered acts of bribery,” he said. 

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