The People's Action for Free & Fair Elections (PAFFREL) has expressed concerns regarding a religious observance set to take place at the Kataragama Kiriviharaya this Saturday, August 10, which is intended to invoke blessings on President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

In a letter to the Chairman of the Election Commission, PAFFREL Executive Director Rohana Hettiarachchi highlighted that the Ministry of Public Affairs has directed all district and provincial secretaries to attend the event. Hettiarachchi said that it would be unlawful for these officials, who are also appointed as district returning officers or assistant officers for the upcoming Presidential Election, to participate in an event associated with a presidential candidate.

Hettiarachchi warned that the participation of these officials could raise doubts about their impartiality and undermine the integrity of the election process. He requested the Election Commission to investigate the matter and take appropriate action to ensure the fairness of the election.