Nevertheless, it is very unfortunate that leaders and the candidates of certain political parties act ignoring Election Laws, and thereby insulting the integrity of the right of the elector and causing disgrace to the basic values of democracy. Those candidates still believe that they could encash the votes of the electors by offering them various physical and promissory bribes, with the thought that winning a vote from an elector is so simple as buying something from the market. Among the large number of complaints we have received at PAFFREL, besides the unlawful publicity campaigns, the highest numbers reported are in respect of commodity distribution of various kinds. They include roofing and ceiling sheets, cash vouchers, liquor, land deeds, school books and school bags, Quran, Buddha Statues and Ratnamalee Stanzas, sewing machines, gas-cookers, gas-cylinders, blenders, grinders, bicycle, shoes, vouchers for shoes, cement, T' shirts, flower pots and buckets, lavatory funding, three-wheelers, cheques, umbrellas, dry ration, sports and sanitary material, finances, business premises, road repairs and carpeting, and many other development support activity with promises on Samurdhi grants and grant increases as well as scholarships, pilgrimages and holding sports events.
It is deplorable that, the religion and the religious devotion of the citizens have been exploited by those politicians, once again, as done at previous elections. On the 19th of this month, a Deputy Minister from Matale district organized a religious tour for the voters in that district, using his so called power and strength, despite the efforts of the Police and the Election Officers. A similar activity has been reported from Polonnaruwa as well. Another candidate has provided 15 buses and facilities in the name of a Buddhist Society for people to visit Moragahakanda Reservoir. While we do not question the right of a Buddhist Society to arrange such trips, they should examine their conscience about the politics behind the activity.
We earnestly request such candidates, who do not respect the Election Laws, not to disrespect their leaders and their party; not to insult the right to vote and the value of the vote of the citizenry; not to devalue the supremacy of the vote through commodity distribution or pilgrimages and trips etc. They must remember that the law will follow them against such acts, even if they win the election.
There is a very important matter, that the elector must remember. If any candidate, before becoming a people's representative enters into a financial transaction in order to obtain a vote, could he or she be trusted to serve the people genuinely? Also, if any candidate, who disregard the Election Laws, and violate the rules and other laws in force to the very face of his or her voters, how could electors trust him or her to be a law-abiding leader of the electorate. Will they act and behave as true, honest and sincere men and women, who would lead an exemplary life and guide the community they promise to serve towards prosperity? Dear elector, it is now your turn to make intelligent decisions, without fear or favour!
We believe that you are not prepared to compromise your valuable vote for a bribe or a pilgrimage. Please let it be known to the candidate, who wishes to buy your vote, devaluing your dignity and integrity. Let all of us make this a different election from what we have experienced in the past, and thereby we, the voters become the victors!
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