Newly-appointed Elections Commission Chairman Nimal Punchihewa said the government woould have to spend approximately Rs. 4.5 billion to hold the long-delayed Provincial Council election.

Speaking to a TV channel. Punchihewa said the Commission could proceed with the election once the required laws are passed in the legislature.

The PC election has been delayed due to issues pertaining to the delimitation process related to the new electoral system passed under the previous government. However, the Chairman said the EC could hold the election under the old system, if the necessary laws are passed by Parliament.

The staggering costs associated with the PC election has become a cause for concern for many. Sri Lanka, a country saddled with a struggling economy, has reached out to international donors seeking to raise Rs. 10 billion to purchase COVID19 vaccines for its population.

“The Local Government election is scheduled in 2022. This election will also cost nearly Rs. 3.6 billion. The total cost can be reduced if the PC and LG elections are held on the same day. But, the EC cannot make a decision in that regard. It is up to the lawmakers to make a final decision on this matter,” Punchihewa said.

Meanwhile, a section of the government is pushing for the abolition of the PC system saying it does not serve any purpose. However, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, during a meeting with the new members of the Elections Commission, asked them to take necessary measures to hold the PC election soon.