Update of Batticaloa polls: TMVP Wins 08 Local Bodies

"The electricity at the depot in Batticaloa was cut off between 6.00pm and 8.30pm and during this period it is alleged that some Ballot boxes were switched.”
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Image: Counting of votes about to begin

(March 11, Batticaloa, Sri Lanka Guardian) In Batticaloa local elections, TMVP Wins eight of nine local bodies while UPFA wins the Batticaloa Municipal Council, Election Department said.

Meanwhile our correspondent in Batticaloa reports on yesterday mid night, “It is alleged that Ballot boxes containing the votes have been switched at the safe haven depot where the ballot boxes were placed before the count took place this evening 10/03. The electricity at the depot in Batticaloa was cut off between 6.00pm and 8.30pm and during this period it is alleged that some Ballot boxes were switched.”

The Election Commission had failed to secure the premises with appropriate security from the Police which resulted in the depot being infiltrated and some of the Ballot boxes switched.

Several political parties had dispatched their members to investigate. The switching of ballot boxes was predicted as many had stated that these election would not be free and fair. It is alleged that the local elections have been rigged which has resulted in these Ballot boxes being switched.

- Sri Lanka Guardian