Former Chairman of the National Election Commission, Mahinda Deshapriya, has highlighted the need for new laws to grant voting rights to expatriate workers, facilitate voting for local workers, and prevent the appointment of unqualified public representatives.
Addressing the media, Deshapriya said a government‑appointed committee has submitted a report on enabling voting for Sri Lankan expatriates and migrant workers.
He revealed that during multiple discussions with the Election Commission, it was noted that the proposal is effective in principle but impractical in implementation due to several challenges.
The former Chairman stressed that other, more urgent legal reforms are required. He underscored the need for legislation to allow local workers, who are unable to cast their ballots on election day, to vote from their place of employment.
“There must be a system where local workers can cast their ballots either the day before or on election day, from their workplace instead of travelling to their hometown. During the war, displaced persons were permitted to vote from wherever they resided, rather than returning to the North. A similar law could be introduced for workers unable to travel home due to job commitments,” he explained.
Deshapriya further emphasized the importance of preventing unqualified individuals from entering public office, urging the government to take immediate legislative action.
“Immediate action is required. These are the issues that must be addressed now,” he added. (Newswire)
