No Polls Till Economic Crisis Addressed: Sri Lanka Election Body
NDTV
Sri Lanka Economic Crisis: Sri Lanka has been grappling with unprecedented economic turmoil since its independence from Britain in 1948.
Sri Lanka's Election Commission Chairman Nimal G Punchihewa on Thursday said that the country cannot go for an election until the economic crisis that has hit the common man badly is addressed.
He said that if an election is held, it will be free and fair only if there is an environment to support that, the News First web portal reported.
Punchihewa said that although the commission currently has only Rs five billion in its kitty now, the amount will likely increase two to three times. However, he pointed out that money is not the issue, but there is a question whether those in queues for gas and kerosene can make a decision according to their conscience.
Therefore, he said that Sri Lanka will have to go for an election after the economic crisis is addressed.
