Joint civil society statement on election violence

(January 2, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) With the race for the presidency getting increasingly close and uncertain, there has been a considerable increase in tension throughout the country. This gives rise to the danger that there can be obstructions to the exercise of the franchise on the day of election which needs to be effectively countered as the electoral process is the main source of legitimacy in a democracy. Election monitoring and media organizations have been reporting a sharp increase in election-related violence including several killings accompanied by a flagrant disregard of election laws including abuse of state resources.

The violation of election laws and the practice of violence at election time are not new phenomena and have taken place in previous elections under previous governments as well. However, on this occasion our concern is greater as the Election Commissioner himself has publicly bemoaned his helplessness and has threatened to give up his duties as his orders are being disregarded.

We, the undersigned organizations, believe that the impunity surrounding election-related practices, if further tolerated, will lead to space being created for a total breakdown of law and order as Election Day approaches. We call on the two main presidential candidates to jointly issue a statement for a cessation of violence and restoration of law and order with regard to the current election campaign. The government needs to immediately implement this call.

A further factor that may influence some sections of the electorate not to participate in the elections is the fear that they will become victims of the politics of revenge if they choose to go with the side that does not win. We therefore call on the rival candidates to make a pledge that they will not engage in the politics of revenge after the election, but strictly adhere to the rule of law. This will encourage voters from all communities to participate in the forthcoming elections and be stakeholders in the outcome, as empowered citizens of a real democracy. We trust that the candidates would by immediate actions demonstrate their commitment to the values outlined (which by their words they profess an adherence) and thereby create a path to a peaceful and fair election process as well as the future development of the country