Ballot box tampering myth : EC issues clarification

September 12, 2024 at 8:27 PM

In response to concerns raised by several politicians and candidates regarding the security of ballot boxes during transportation, Sri Lanka’s Election Commission issued a detailed statement today, addressing these claims and reaffirming the safety of the upcoming presidential election process.

In the official release, Commissioner General of Elections Saman Sri Rathnayake emphasized that strict procedures will remain in place for the secure handling and transportation of ballot boxes after polling.

“Among these measures is the practice of transporting ballot boxes in transparent, locked bags—a security feature introduced in the previous election, which will continue this year” Commissioner General said.

Additionally, after the close of polling, ballot boxes will be sealed with a copy of a form signed by randomly selected polling officials.

This original copy will be affixed to the ballot box itself, while other copies will be sent to the counting center and distributed among polling agents.

The Election Commission further clarified that representatives from candidates are allowed to follow the vehicles transporting the ballot boxes from polling stations up to the final police checkpoint before the counting center. Moreover, candidates may position authorized counting agents along the route from this checkpoint to the counting center premises, with prior notification provided to police officials.

Due to logistical challenges, however, it is not feasible for all candidates to follow each ballot box in transit. As such, representatives must submit requests three days before polling, detailing which centers require escorts and specifying the vehicle and personnel involved.

The Election Commission also announced that one counting agent from each candidate will be allowed inside the counting hall starting at 3:00 PM on election day. Additional agents may be present at the counting premises from the same time.

With these measures in place, the Election Commission aims to ensure transparency and allay fears of ballot box tampering in the upcoming presidential election. (Newswire)