![Gossip Lanka News [English]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhYm2aFFq-bIW1nWX-RrqnPFoIsVos6_VCVz8BpLt0QJi55GNXHXC2fugeRvL0qUStEuCfs7Sfu6ZiSlhrkldxfGuE_wzy5gitY6rMZ2KSi8VBbGvkgXLks37RwZV-4-HKbWiNLRxB8C_r1e4z3mpxFTMPDJPEADoG8E-bZteWFipeD5KNGbjvCfqEfKw=s300 "Gossip Lanka News [English]")
A complaint has been filed with the Election Commission by the PAFFREL organization regarding a statement made by Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya during the election silence period of the provincial council elections. The complaint claims that the statement violated election laws by conducting campaign activities during the designated "silence period."
In response to this complaint, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya addressed the media today (May 6), clarifying her position. She stated, “I had no intention to violate any election laws. I clearly said that our campaign activities should end and should be concluded officially.”
She further explained, "If any violation of election laws occurred, it is the responsibility of the Election Commission to take necessary actions. This matter concerns all of us, and I respect that process and welcome it.”
Prime Minister Amarasuriya also reflected on how such allegations were not as prominent in the past. "These issues are being scrutinized much more seriously now. If there is any minor error, it gets pointed out, and that is something I think is part of the changing political environment," she added.
She continued, “Previously, such matters did not receive such attention. More serious issues occurred, but now the public is more alert, and even minor mistakes are under close observation. This shows how the political culture has evolved.”
In closing, the Prime Minister emphasized, “What I see is that the political culture is transforming and becoming more democratic in our society, which is another sign of change.”
PAFFREL’s Complaint and Allegations
PAFFREL filed the complaint alleging that Prime Minister Amarasuriya’s statement during the election silence period constituted a violation of election laws. According to the complaint, the Prime Minister’s comments during this period allowed for campaign activities, which is in violation of election regulations. PAFFREL also argued that such actions undermine the credibility of the entire election process.
The complaint was submitted to the Election Commission on May 5, highlighting concerns about the integrity of the election campaign period and the potential influence such statements could have on other candidates and the public.