Flatly denying allegations that the date of the presidential election clashes with the schedule of the papal visit, Elections Commissioner told reporters today that his department sets dates for elections after taking into consideration nationally important events.

This remark also came in a context where there were widespread speculations that certain astrologers are heavily influencing dates of elections. The Elections Commissioner cleared the air on dates of elections at a press conference that was held at his office this morning. He asserted that the elections dates were not set according to the advices of astrologers.

Addressing the same press conference, the Commissioner added that his department will seek the assistance of foreign election monitors, in addition to local election monitors. It has already been alleged that election related violent is on a rise in several parts of the country.

"I am according to the powers that have been vested in me by the country's legislature," Deshapriya said adding that his department as already set up a complaints unit to gather information pertaining to election violence.

Dehsapriya also stated that the postal voting of the presidential election will take place on December 24 and 24. "Accepting postal votes applications will close on December 04", he added.

Commenting on the mechanism to ascertain identity of the voters, Deshapriya said it would include National Identity Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Elders ID, ID issued for clergy.