30 March 2010, Colombo, Sri
Lanka: CMEV is deeply concerned by the escalating violence
and intimidation that threatens to mar the forthcoming polls.

Recent incidents of election related violence are highlighted below;

UNP party meeting obstructed in Welikada

CMEV received a complaint from UNP candidate Shiral
Lakthilaka(candidate no 21) alleging that the decorations set up for a
UNP meeting in Welikada were removed by the Welikada Police at around
12.30 pm today.

CMEV Field Monitor visited to the scene and recorded a statement from
Shiral Laktialka. According to him, they initially sought the approval
of the Welikada Police to conduct a meeting on 30^th March in a
car park belonging to the Kotte Urban Council.  They were informed that
since a meeting of UPFA candidate Wimal Weerawansa(candidate no 20) had
been arranged the following day, the Police were unable give the UNPers
approval. He further stated that they then decided to conduct their
meeting in a car park located in Rajagiriya belonging to the Road
Development Authority. However, the Welikada Police informed them that
since the Police did not have enough officers to provide security for
the Opposition Leader, Ranil Wickrmasinghe, they were unable to grant
their approval. The UNPers finally decided to hold the meeting in a car
park next to the Welikada Police Station.

CMEV contacted the Welikad Police Station. OIC Gamini Sarath stated
that they only removed the illegal decorations, which were displayed
outside the premises and did not obstruct the UNP meeting.  He denied
allegations that they did not respond to the UNPers requests to hold a
meeting and explained that they have also given approval to the meeting
held today.

Repeated reports regarding the misuse of public property

CMEV Field Monitor observed that a lorry (WP LD 1304) belonging to
the Ministry of Health was used to transport posters of the ruling
party, to Embilipitya from Colombo on 29^th March at around
05.15 pm. CMEV Monitor also learnt that around 80,000 posters were being
transported.

Once CMEV confirmed the incident, CMEV immediately informed all the
relevant police authorities including the Election DIG’s Office, the
respective Police Station-Rathnapura- and the Emergency Line (119). 
However, through subsequent calls, CMEV learnt that no action was taken
to track the vehicle.

CMEV, once again, underscores the blatant misuse of public resources
for electioneering and its bearing on the integrity and outcome of the
polls. CMEV expresses its deep concern over the inability of the
responsible authorities to arrest the situation.

UPFA supporters assaulted in Vavuniya

On 28^th March, CMEV received a complaint from J.Jesir, a
supporter of the former Minister and UPFA candidate, Risad Badhiutheen
(candidate no 01), that he was assaulted by a group of supporters of UNP
candidate Noordeen Mashoor (candidate no 05) in Chinna Chippikulam,
Nerayakulam, Vavuniya at around 09.30 am. The victim sustained grievous
injuries on his head and has been admitted to ward no 04 of the
Chettikulam Base Hospital.

On 29^th March, CMEV Field Monitor visited the hospital and
recorded a statement from the victim.  According to him, the
perpetrators attempted to stab him in the stomach with a knife, but he
managed to escape. They subsequently stabbed him on his head.

CMEV learnt that a complaint was lodged with the Chettikulam Police
in this regard by the victim on the same day and A.C.Razick, a suspect,
was arrested in relation the incident.

When CMEV contacted Noordeen Mashoor’s office, Mr.Thameem, personal
coordinator of the candidate, informed CMEV that he is not aware of the
incident.

CMEV was unable to contact the Police.

Clash between two UPFA groups in Gampola

CMEV learnt that a group of supporters of UPFA candidate
S.B.Dissanayake (candidate no 05) assaulted a group of supporters of
UPFA candidate, Mahindananda Aluthgamage (candidate no 04) in
Galgediyawa, Gampola at around 03.30 am on 28^th March. Eight
supporters of Mahindananda Aluthgamage sustained injuries due to the
attack and were admitted to the Gampola Base Hospital.

On 30^th March, CMEV contacted Mahindananda Aluthgamage. He
informed CMEV that his supporters were attacked with wooden batons by
supporters of S.B.Dissanyake.. He alleged that they also kidnapped one
of his supporters whose release he obtained by speaking directly to
S.B.Dissanayake.

CMEV contacted S.B.Dissanayke, he stated that he also came to know
about the incident and that he is still not aware of whether his
supporters were really involved in the incident or not.  He further
informed CMEV that he will look into the matter.

Attempts to get further details from the Gampola Police Station
regarding the incident were not successful, as no one officially
responded to the queries.

When CMEV contacted the Gampola Base Hospital, Dr.Sunitha Jayasundara
informed CMEV that the victims were admitted to ward no 01 and 02 of
the hospital and were receiving treatment. She further informed CMEV
that they are not in a critical condition.

As of 28^th March, CMEV has confirmed 258 incidents of
election related violence including 152 Major Incidents. The Use of
Fire- arms and the Misuse of Public Property has risen to 40 and 41
respectively.

Major Incidents include 51 incidents of Assault, 41 instances of
Public Property Misuse, 25 incidents of Threat and Intimidation, 10
instances of Damage to Property, 08 incidents each of Arson and Grievous
Hurt, 07 instances each of Hurt and 02 of Robbery.

All CMEV reports and communiqués and the CMEV Incidents
Google Map can be accessed online at http://cmev.wordpress.com

29 March 2010, Colombo, Sri
Lanka: CMEV repeats its call to the relevant authorities,
political party leaders and their supporters to act fast to prevent
further violence and to take immediate actions against the members who
have perpetrated violence.

Obstruction to CMEV Field Monitor in Nikaweratiya

Yesterday, in its 05^th Media Communiqué, CMEV highlighted
the incident of a camera belonging to its Field Monitor in Nikaweratiya,
being snatched by a man who appears to be a supporter of Johnston
Fernando. The Monitor was photographing an attacked UNP Party Office in
Nikaweratiya.

CMEV Field Monitor lodged a complaint (MOIB 270/44) with the
Nikaweratiya Police Station at around 07.30 pm yesterday. On contacting
the Police, CMEV learnt that the further investigations are being
carried out and that no one has been identified in relation to the
incident.

On 29^th March CMEV contacted UPFA candidate Johnston
Fernando in this regard. He informed CMEV that he is out of
Nikaweratiya, today and will look into the matter once he returned to
Nikaweratiya tomorrow.

CMEV unreservedly condemns any attempts to undermine it and urges the
authorities to assure an impartial and speedy investigation into the
incident.

An arson attack to UPFA stage in Ninthavoor

On 29^th March, CMEV received a complaint from CMEV Field
Monitor that the pavilion set up for a UPFA meeting in Main Street,
Ninthavoor was set on fire, allegedly by a group of UNP supporters at
around 10.30 am today.

CMEV contacted Mr.Jahufer, Personal Secretary to the incumbent
Minister of Water Supply and Drainage and UPFA candidate
A.L.M.Athaulla(candidate no 02). He informed CMEV that around 400 UNP
supporters were involved in the incident and that they broke the stage
and set fire to the decorations and furniture.

CMEV contacted M.A.Jinnah, Personal Secretary to UNP candidate Faisal
Casim(candidate no 08). He admitted that they are UNPers. He added
however that they were not instigated to attack the stage and that he
too condemns the attack.

CMEV learnt that the STF was deployed in the area after the attack to
provide security to the meeting.

Attack to DNA Party Offices in Tissamaharama

CMEV Field Monitor reported that two DNA party offices located in
Tissamaharama were attacked by an unknown group who came in a car and a
cab at around 01.00 am today. According to him, cutouts and decorations
were damaged due to the attack.

CMEV contacted V.K.Sunil, a DNA supporter. He alleged that the attack
was carried out by Nil Balakaya(Blue Force, a movement led by UPFA
candidate Namal Rajapakshe) and that they were carrying fire arms.
According to him bullets were fired in the air, thrice.

CMEV contacted the Tissamaharama Police Station. An officer who did
not mention his name, confirmed the incident and stated that they have
received two complaints regarding the incident from the DNA. He further
informed CMEV that further investigations are being carried out on this
account.

Intra Party disputes

Nuwara-Eliya: On 29^th March CMEV received
a complaint from R.M.S.Sunethra Menike, District women wing Organizer
of the National Freedom Front, an ally of UPFA, that their women working
committee meeting held at the Community Hall located in
Morabedda,Harasbedda, was interrupted allegedly by a group of supporters
of the incumbent Minister of Livestock Development and UPFA candidate
C.B.Ratnayake(candidate no 02) today at around 12.00 pm. According to
her the group was led by H.Ananda Hithtetige known as Ajantha, a
Samurdhi Officer.

CMEV contacted the Walapane Police Station. A police officer who did
not reveal his name, confirmed the incident and that a complaint (EIB
161/76) has been made by R.M.S.Sunethra Menike.

Attempts to contact C.B.Ratnayake were not successful as he was in a
meeting.

Anamaduwa: CMEV received reports regarding an intra
party clash between two groups of UPFA supporters in Anamanduwa.

On 26^th March W.A.Chaminda, Driver of the Chairman of the
Arachchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabah(PS)-Jagath Samantha- was assaulted by a
group of supporters of UPFA candidate Priyankara Jayaratne(candidate no
09) in Maduwakkulama, Andigamuwa while they were going to hand over a
loudspeaker to a mosque located in Maduwakkulama, Andigama.

CMEV learnt that Jagath Samantha is a brother of UPFA candidate
Sanath Nishantha(candidate no 02) and that the loudspeaker was a gift
from Sanath Nishatha Foundation.

A counter attack was allegedly carried out by Jagath Samatha and his
supporters on a group of supporters of Priyankara Jayaratne on 27^th March near Galkuliya Junction, Andigama. Three supporters of Priyankara
Jayaratne sustained injuries due to the attack and K.M.Nihal, a UPFA
supporter, was admitted to the Chilaw General Hospital.

When contacted, both parties denied the allegations against them and
made counter- allegations against each other.

CMEV learnt that W.A.Chaminda made a complaint (MOIB 210/199) to the
Pallama Police station and a counter complaint was lodged with the
Anamaduwa Police Station. When CMEV contacted the Anamaduwa Police
Station, Election OIC, N.D.Sarath refused to provide any details
regarding the incident as the complaint is not categorized as election
related.

Kalutara: CMEV learnt that UPFA candidate Kumara
Welgama(candidate no 07) entered a party office of UPFA candidate Vidura
Wickramanayake(candidate no 13) and attempted to attack a UPFA
supporter in the eve of 27^th March.

When contacted, Indika Chandratilaka, Personal Secretary to the Prime
Minister, informed CMEV that they have lodged a complaint with the
Horana Police Station.  She asked CMEV to get further details from them.

On 29^th March, CMEV Field Monitor visited the Horana
Police Station, OIC Gunasena Geekiyanage informed CMEV that they have
not received a complaint regarding the above incident.

Repeated attempts to contact Kumara Welgama were not successful as he
was not contactable.

UNP party office attacked in Nikaweratiya

CMEV Field Monitor reported that a UNP Party Office located in
Nikaweratiya was attacked by a group of supporters of UPFA candidate
Johnston Fernando (candidate no 14) while they were returning after a
UPFA meeting held in Nikaweratiya under the patronage of the President,
Mahinda Rajapakshe. Furniture and the campaigning materials were damaged
due to the attack.

CMEV contacted the Organizer and UNP candidate, Herath Banda
Tennakoon(candidate no 13) who informed CMEV that according to the
information he received from his supporters, the attack was carried out
by supporters of Johnston Fernando and stated that a 50,00-100,000Rs
estimated loss was incurred.

CMEV contacted Jhonston Fernando, he informed CMEV that he also came
to know about the incident and denied the involvement of his supporters.
He further told CMEV that one of his cut-outs was also damaged by an
unknown group in Nikaweratiya on the same day.

CMEV learnt that no complaint had been lodged with the Police on this
account.

ITAK candidate threatened in Batticaloa

0n 29^th March CMEV Field Monitor reported that a ITAK
Party Office was attacked by a group of TMVP supporters allegedly led by
the Eastern Provincial Council Chief Minister, Sivaneshanthurai
Chandrakanthan at around 05.30 pm yesterday in Mamanga Pillayar Temple
Road, Batticaloa.

When CMEV contacted ITAK candidate Yogeshwaran(candidate no 07), he
informed CMEV that he was verbally threatened allegedly by
Sivaneshanthurai Chandrakanthan 03 days before the attack. According to
him, he was warned by Sivaneshanthurai Chandrakanthan not to get
involved in politics and that if he did, he would be killed after the
election.

CMEV contacted TMVP team leader and candidate, A.
Selvendran(candidate no 01)who categorically denied both allegations.
CMEV Field Monitor visited the Batticaloa Police Station and was
informed that a complaint, (CIB 175/335), was lodged by Yogeshwaran in
this regard and that further investigations are underway.

As of 28^th March CMEV has confirmed 254 incidents of
election related violence including 149 Major Incidents. The Use of
Fire- arms and the Misuse of Public Property has risen to 40 and 41
respectively.

Major Incidents include 51 incidents of Assault, 41 instances of
Public Property Misuse, 25 incidents of Threat and Intimidation, 09
instances of Damage to Property, 07 instances each of Arson, Hurt and
Grievous Hurt and 02 of Robbery.

CMEV has received 181 complaints against the UPFA and its allies, of
which 53(29%) were by party members. The UNP is accused in 11 incidents.
In 50 instances, the party affiliation of the perpetrators is not
identified. CMEV has also received 04 complaints against the EPDP and 01
complaint each against the DNA and ITAK and an independent group
contesting in the Badulla District. CMEV recorded a complaint against
TMVP from Batticaloa.

All CMEV reports and communiqués and the CMEV Incidents
Google Map can be accessed online at http://cmev.wordpress.com

28 March 2010, Colombo, Sri
Lanka: CMEV expresses its deep concern about the flagrant
misuse of public property for electioneering and the inactivity of
responsible officers in arresting the situation. Attacks on party
offices and supporters increase in the lead up to the election. CMEV
calls upon the leaders of two main political parties in and their allies
to act to prevent further violence and to take effective action against
members and supporters who have perpetrated violence.

Obstruction to CMEV Field Monitor

CMEV learns that a camera belonging to the CMEV Field Monitor in
Nikaweratiya, Nihal Chandrasisiri, has been snatched by a man in a white
Hi-ace van at around 07.15 pm today while he was photographing a
damaged UNP Party Office in Nikaweratiya.

CMEV Field Monitor informed CMEV that the candidate number and the
name of UPFA candidate Johnston Fernando were displayed on the back
mirror of the vehicle. His name was displayed as’Jhony’ in Sinhala. CMEV
monitor was unable to identify the vehicle number.

CMEV learns that at the time of the incident the Police were also
present at the location to investigate the attack on the UNP party
office.

According to the instruction given by the CMEV Secretariat, CMEV
Field Monitor has lodged a complaint at the Nikaweratiya Police Station.

CMEV will write to the Election Commissioner and the IGP in this
regard.

CMEV unreservedly condemns this obstruction of the work of election
observers by the politicians and their supporters.

Clash between UPFA supporters in Mirissa

CMEV Field Monitor reported that a clash between a group of
supporters of the incumbent Minister of Cultural Affairs and National
Heritage and UPFA candidate, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena(candidate no 03)
and a group of supporters of UPFA candidate, Lakshman Yapa
Abeywardena(candidate 01) at Mirissa Junction, around 12.30 pm toady.

CMEV contacted Yamuna Punchihewa, a UPFA member of the Weligama
Pradeshiya Sabha(PS) and a supporter of Lakshman Yapa Abeyawardena, who
stated that they were obstructed by supporters of Mahinda Yapa near the
Mirrissa Junction when they came in a procession from Kamburugamuwa. She
further said that the perpetrators attacked them with wooden batons,
stones and glass bottles. He also alleged that they were carrying a
pistol.

According to Yamuna Punchihewa, two UPFA members of Weligamuwa PS
namely Susantha Jayalath and Pushpakumara Bettage were amongst the
perpetrators.

CMEV contacted Susantha Jayalath who informed CMEV that a tense
situation arose after supporters of Mahinda Yapa hooted supporters of
Lakshman Yapa who were near the Mirrissa Junction. He said that he
intervened to control the situation. He categorically denied that they
assaulted the supporters of Lakshman Yapa and stated that no one carried
fire- arms.

CMEV contacted the Weligama Police Station, Mr.Mahesh, OIC of the
Weligama Police Station, informed CMEV that they rushed to the scene of
the incident once they were informed. He further stated that they
managed to disperse the crowd before the situation worsened.

AITC supporter threatened in Warani, Jaffna

On 28^th March, CMEV received a complaint from AITC
candidate, S.Subramaniyam(candidate no 11) alleging that K.Arumugam, one
of his supporter was verbally threatened by Y.Yogachandran, who claims
to be a EPDP supporter, in Warani North at around 04.00 pm today.

According to Subramaniyam, he was threatened not to campaign in the
Kudathanai area as the area “belongs” to the EPDP and was he to do so,
he was told that he would be killed.

On contacting the Kodikama Police Station, CMEV learnt that no
complaint has been lodged with the police as yet.

Repeated intimidation to UNP supporters in Norwood

On 27^th March R.Kalaivanan, a UNP supporter, made a
complaint to CMEV that members of his family are continuously
intimidated by Ceylon Workers Congress (CWC) supporters, an ally of
UPFA. He alleged that the incumbent Minister of Youth Empowerment and
Socio Economic Development and UPFA candidate Arumugam
Thondaman(candidate no 10) threatened them to remove their shop located
at No.02,Maskleiya Road Norwood immediately. He further alleged that he
instructed the OIC of the Norwood Police Station to take immediate
actions against him and his father Mr.Rajendran, Opposition Leader of
the Ambagamuwa PS.

Repeated attempts to contact Mr. Arumugam Thondaman were not
successful as he was in a meeting.

When CMEV contacted the Norwood Police, OIC Saman Kumara informed
CMEV that Arumugam Thondaman visited the area on 26^th March
for campaigning but that no quarrels occurred during the visit as
alleged.

Public property misuse in Polonnaruwa

On 28^th March CMEV Field Monitor reported that a bus
(03sri-9868) belonging to the Mahaweli Authority was used to transport a
group of UPFA supporters from Welikanda to Kalahagala for campaigning
activities on 27^th March.

CMEV contacted the residence project manager, Ranjith Perera who
confirmed that the bus belongs to the authority and that he has strictly
instructed the staff not to use any vehicles for electioneering.  He
said he was not aware of this incident.

04 UNP party offices damaged in Sooriyawewa

CMEV Field Monitor informed that 04 UNP party offices have been
attacked by an unknown group, yesterday 27 March in the Sooriyawewa
area.

According to CMEV Field Monitor, attacks were carried out between
01-04 am and campaigning materials were set fire to by the perpetrators.

CMEV learnt that the offices were maintained by 04 UNP supporters
namely U.K.Gunadasa, H.H.William, T.L.Ranjth and G.G.Thanuja Sampth.

When contacted H.H.William, a UNP supporter, alleged that the attacks
would have been carried out by the UPFA and they would not make a
complaint to the Police because they lacked trust in them.

When contacted, the Sooriyawewa Police Station, Sergeant Ratnaweera
stated that they had not as yet received a complaint.

UPFA supporters attacked in Pottuvil

On 26^th March, CMEV Field Monitor reported that National
Congress Organizer for Pottuvil, M.A.Majeed, and a group of National
Congress supporters, an ally of UPFA, were attacked with stones at a UNF
meeting held in Pottuvil.

According to CMEV Field Monitor, they were attacked by UNF supporters
gathered at the meeting after UPFA supporters in a van (WP HM 6975)
intentionally knocked down a pillar of the pavilion set up for the
meeting.

CMEV learnt that a tense situation arouse after the clash and
Mr.Majeed and two Police Officers namely M.Aleem(PC 49821) and Indula
Athula Mudali, Traffic OIC of the Pottuvil Police Station were injured.
Mr.Majeed was initially admitted to the Pottuvil District Base Hospital
and then to the Akkraipattu Base Hospital.

CMEV contacted M.S.M.Marsook,Chairman Pottuvil Pradeshiya Sabah(PS).
He informed CMEV that he and Mr.A.M.M.Thajudeen, Vice Chairman of
Pottuvil PS were arrested by the Police on 26^th March and
released on bail the following day.

When CMEV contacted the Pottuvil Police to get further details
regarding the incident an officer who did not reveal his name refused to
give any details regarding the incident and stated that they have
already released the necessary details to the media.

UNP supporter attacked in Kattankudi

On 24^th March N.M.Nishad, a UNP supporter, was attacked
allegedly by a group of supporters of UPFA candidate
M.A.M.Hisbulla(candidate no 03) in the Main street Kattankudi at around
08.10 pm while he was returning to his residence after a UNP meeting
held in Kattankudi. The victim sustained grievous injuries on his left
hand and was admitted to the ward no 14 of the Batticaloa Base Hospital.

When CMEV contacted Mr.Hisbullah, he denied the involvement of his
supporters in the incident.

CMEV Field Monitor visited the Kattankudi Police Station and
confirmed the incident. According to him, a complaint (EIB 166/111) has
been lodged with the Police by the victim and further investigations are
underway regarding the incident.

ITAK supporters arrested in Vaharai

On 26^th March ITAK candidate, Mr.Ariyanendran (candidate
no 01) made a complaint to CMEV that the Vaharai Police obstructed
vehicles of his supporters and arrested 12 ITAK supporters as well as
took into custody a vehicle in Vaharai at around 12.25 pm.

CMEV learnt that 06 of them were released by the Police on 26^th March at around 02.30 and the other 06 at around 08.00 pm on the same
day.

According to Ariyanendran, the Police have not yet stated the reason
for the arrests and that their vehicle is still in the custody of the
Police. Ariyanendran further alleged that they experienced the same
problem with the Vaharai Police during the last Presidential Election.

CMEV repeatedly contacted the Vaharai Police Station to get further
details regarding the incident but was not successful as no one
officially responded to the queries.

Attack on UPFA party office in Kaleliya

On 27^th March UPFA candidate Anjan Umma(candidate no 04)
made a compliant to CMEV that her party office located in Hansgiriya,
Kaleliya was attacked allegedly by a group of supporters of UPFA
candidate Kokila Harshani Gunawardhana(candidate no 21) on 25^th March at around 11.00 pm.

When CMEV contacted Sampath Wickramasinghe, coordinating secretary of
Anjan Umma, alleged that Kokila Harshani Gunawardhana was present at
the scene and that the perpetrators came in two Jeeps and a lorry and
they could not identify the vehicle numbers.

When contacted Kokila Harshani Gunawardhana categorically denied her
involvement in the incident.

CMEV learnt that no complaints have been lodged with the police in
this regard.

As of 28^th March CMEV has confirmed 235 incidents of
election related violence including 141 Major Incidents. The Use of
Fire- arms and the Misuse of Public Property has risen to 36 and 40
respectively.

Major Incidents include 48 incidents of Assault, 40 instances of
Public Property Misuse, 22 incidents of Threat and Intimidation, 09
instances of Damage to Property, 07 instances each of Arson, Hurt and
Grievous Hurt and 01 of Robbery.

CMEV has received 169 complaints against UPFA and its allies, of
which 46 were by party members. The UNP is accused in 11 incidents. In
45 instances, the party affiliation of the perpetrators is not
identified. CMEV has also received 03 complaints against the EPDP and 01
complaint each against the DNA and ITAK and an independent group
contesting in the Badulla District.

All CMEV reports and communiqués and the CMEV Incidents
Google Map can be accessed online at http://cmev.wordpress.com

25^th March 2010,
Colombo, Sri Lanka: CMEV is deeply concerned by reports
alleging attempts to disenfranchise postal voters by officials in their
capacity as certifying officers in particular.

CMEV deployed 185 Mobile Monitors and 150 Stationary Monitors today
(25 March 2010) to monitor the postal voting and intends to have the
same deploy tomorrow.

CMEV recorded 25 postal voting related incidents today. As of 24^th March CMEV has recorded a cumulative total of 192 incidents including
121 Major Incidents.

The Major Incidents related to the postal voting are highlighted
below:

Sabaragamuwa Province

Zonal Education Office, Warakapola

On 24^th March CMEV received a complaint from Dedigama UNP
party office alleging that 05 non- government employees were included in
the list of postal voters. According the list M.P.Jayaweera of 4^th Regiment, Palali, has been named as the certifying officer.

On 25^th CMEV contacted a voter who was named in the above
list.  He stated that he is not a government employee and that he was
not aware of how his name came to be included on the postal voting list.
He suspects that someone has intentionally done this in order to deny
his voting rights, as he is a UNP supporter.

When contacted Mr.Jayaweera informed CMEV that he is a government
teacher at Nivatuwa Maha Vidyalaya and that he had also applied for
postal voting and marked his postal vote at Zonal Education Office,
Warakapola today. He further explained that he came to know about the
incident yesterday through the Grama Niladhari of his division and that
his forged signature has been used in the application.

CMEV contacted P.A. Senaratne, Assistant Election Commissioner of
Kegalle District. He informed CMEV that mistakenly their names were
replaced with similar names of government employees. He said that they
have been identified and that postal ballots were not sent to them. He
further assured CMEV that he has taken measures to make arrangements for
them to cast their votes on 08^th April.

On 25^th March at around 03.10 pm, CMEV contacted the
Kegalle District Returning Officer, Mrs.D.M.P.Dissanayake on this
account. She informed CMEV that she came to know about the incident
yesterday evening and they have started an investigation into the
matter. She also said that the perpetrators are yet to be identified.

CMEV will raise the issue with the Election Commissioner and urge him
to ensure a detailed investigation into the incident.

Rambukana Pradeshiya Sabah

According to the CMEV Monitor, as of 11.30 am, a double
cab(252-6894), a tipper( CP LC 9201) and a van(SB TA 4399) were parked
within the premises of Rambukana PS. The vehicles were decorated with
the propaganda material of UPFA candidate Kanaka Herath(candidate no
04). Fifty –two (52) postal votes were registered at the centre.

Central Province

Leminiar Tami Vidyalayam,Nuwara-Eliya

On 25^th March, CMEV received reports regarding an alleged
attempt to deny voters’ rights in Nuwara-Eliya.

According to two teachers of Leminiar Tamil Vidyalaya, namely
Saraswathi Pawani and Mrs.Rajakumran, they did not receive their postal
ballots though they had applied for postal voting. They alleged that the
Principal of the School did not submit their applications as they are
supporters of National Union of Workers, an ally of UNP.

A.Nagarajah a UNP Member of the Kotagala Pradeshiya Sabha informed
CMEV that the two  teachers were the only postal voters who did not
receive postal ballots. He alleges that the principal did this on
purpose to deny UNF voters of the franchise.

CMEV contacted the Zonal Education Office, Nuwara-Eliya,
B.Dharmasisiri Ranasinghe, an administrative officer of the department.
He told CMEV that they were not sent postal ballots because their
applications had not been received.

Uva Province

Mahiyangana Zonal Education Office: At around 03.35
pm CMEV Field Monitor reported that 245 applications for postal voting
were rejected by the respective Zonal Education Director, Mr.Susil
Wijeyatilaka due to late submission.

CMEV contacted Susil Wijetilaka who informed CMEV that he received
applications from staff until 26^th of February and due to the
transportation problems he was unable to submit the applications on the
due date. He further stated that he informed the Assistant Election
Commissioner’s Office on 26^th February that he was unable to
handover the applications on the due date and an officer instructed him
to send the applications by post. Mr.Susil Wijetialka
has sent the applications by post, they were rejected and he has no
record of who he spoke to.

CMEV contacted A.T.M.Talangama, Assistant Election Commissioner of
the Badulla District. He stated that they acted according the rules and
that the deadlines given by the Election Commissioner and the Director
of Mahiyangana Zonal Education Office was responsible for his delay.

CMEV has learnt that most of the applicants have applied for election
duty and might lose their right to vote.

Western Province

Maharagama Urban Council

At around 01.00 pm, CMEV Field Monitor reported that UPFA candidate
Sudharman Radaliyagoda(candidate no 05) and a group of supporters
wearing T-Shirts and Caps displaying the candidate’s number were seen
within the premises of the Council.

At around 01.20 pm, R.A.Somawathi, Certifying Officer of the centre,
informed CMEV that they were present in the morning and that she had
instructed them to leave the premises.  She further stated that since
she was inside the building, she was not aware of whether they have
entered again . She assured CMEV that she would look into the matter.

Forest Department Head Office, Malabe

On 25^th March, the CMEV Field Monitor reported that 19
postal vote applications were rejected due to their late submission.

Eastern Province

CMEV Field Monitors reported that they found the tops of ballot paper
envelopes stuck in several postal voting centres.  CMEV recorded 02
instances from the Paddiruppu electorate and 01 incident from the
Batticaloa electorate.

CMEV contacted the Assistant Election Commissioner of Batticaloa, T.
Krishnanandalingam. He informed CMEV that this was a mistake and that
they had deployed a mobile team to re-issue valid envelopes to postal
voters.

Kinniya Urban Council

At around 11.10 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a black
Pajero(WP C-655) displaying the beetle symbol and candidate no 07 was
parked inside the premises of Kinniya PS. Seventeem (17) postal votes
were registered at the centre.

Southern Province

Sooriyawewa Police Station

According to the CMEV Field Monitor all postal voting applications of
the Sooriyawewa Police Station have been rejected by the certifying
officer B.G.S.Sumanasinghe, OIC of the Sooriyawewa Police Station, on
grounds of late submission. An officer attached to the Hambantota
Assistant Election Commissioner’s office confirmed the incident.

Bopey-Poddala Pradeshiya Sabah

At around 12.40 pm, CMEV Field Monitor reported that supporters of
UPFA candidates namely Rev.Baddegama Samitha(candidate no 09) and
Piyasena Gamage(candidate no 03) and UNP candidate Wijyapala
Hettiarachchi(candidate no 11) were campaigning for their respective
candidates using the public addressing system near the Bopey-Poddala
Pradeshiya Sabha. They came in separate vehicle convoys. CMEV Field
Monitor has identified two vehicles as follows;

A cab (WPC 100299) belonging to Piyasena Gamage

A three-wheel (SP GE 2660) belonging to Wijayapala Hettiarachchi

25^th March 2010,
Colombo, Sri Lanka CMEV field reports reveal that
candidates and their supporters engage in electioneering within the
vicinity of postal voting centres.

Western Province

Kalutara Pradeshiya Sabah

At around 09.20 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a ‘12X6’ cut-out
of incumbent Minister of Nation Building and UPFA candidate Rohitha
Abeyagunawardhana(candidate no 03) and another cut-out of Nirmala
Kothalawala(candidate no 09) were displayed within the vicinity of the
Kalutara Pradeshiya Sabah(PS).

CMEV contacted Geethani, the Secretary and Certifying Officer of the
Kalutara PS, who told CMEV that she had instructed the officials to
remove the cutouts yesterday.  She assured CMEV that she will take
speedy measures to remove the cutouts. Sixteen (16) postal votes were
registered at the Kalutara PS.

Zonal Education Office Meerigama

According to the CMEV Monitor, two women claiming to be
representatives of UPFA candidate Basil Rajapakshe(candidate no 16) are
recording the details of individual postal voters of the respective
centre. They verbally threatened the CMEV Monitor when he questioned
them about this. Two postal voting centres are situated in the
department. One hundred and sixty one (161) and ninety-one (91) votes
were recorded at these centres. A similar incident was reported from the
Survey Department, Meerigama. Twelve (12) postal votes were registered
at the department.

On contacting his office, CMEV was informed that Mr Basil Rajapaksha
was not available as he was in a meeting.

Sabaragamuwa Province

Deraniyagala Pradeshiya Sabha

At around 09.30 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a ‘10X5’ cutout
of UPFA candidate, H.R.Mithrapala(candidate no 03) was displayed within
the premises of the Deraniyagala PS. Another cutout of UPFA candidate
Kanaka Herath(candidate no 04) was also prominently displayed at the
entrance gate of the Deraniyagala PS. Ten (10) postal votes were
registered at the Deraniyagala PS.

According to the CMEV Field Monitor, a jeep (WP JR 3456) belonging to
Mithrapala was also parked within the premises of Deraniyagala PS.

Southern Province

Akuressa Depot

At around 09.30 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a medium size
cutout of UPFA candidate Manoj Sirisena(candidate no 05) was displayed
within the premises of the Akuressa Depot. Seventeen (17) votes were
registered at the centre.

North Western Province

Mundalam Divisional Secretariat

At around 09.30 am CMEV Field Monitor reported that a large number of
posters of UPFA candidate, Victor Antony (candidate no 06) were pasted
on the wall of the Mundalam Divisional Secretariat. Fifty (50) postal
votes were registered at the centre.

According to CMEV Field Monitor, within the 50m radius of the
Mundalam Divisional Secretariat small size cutouts of UPFA candidate
Milroy Ferenando(candidate no 10) were displayed along the road.

Nathandiya Divisional Secretariat

At around 10.10 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that a van (NW HU
9813) decorated with the propaganda material of UPFA candidate Arundika
Fernando(candidate no 04) was parked opposite the Nathandiya Divisional
Secretariat. Sixty one (61) postal votes were registered at the above
centre.

Northern Province

Valvettiturai Urban Council

At around 10.15 am, CMEV Field Monitor reported that two ACTC
supporters on motor bicycles issued pocket calendars and handouts in
support of ACTC candidates Gajendra Kumara Ponnambalm(candidate no 02)
and Sinnathurai Varatharajan(candidate no 10) opposite the Valvettiturai
Urban Council.  According to the CMEV Monitor, the Valvettiturai Police
Station is located nearby.  Twenty three (23) and fifty-nine (59)
postal votes were registered respectively from Valvettiturai Urban
Council and Valvettiturai Police station.

Eastern Province

Zonal Education Office, Pattiruppu

At around 10.40 am, the CMEV Field Monitor reported that a white
Dolphin van (62-5039) with the photographs and posters of TULF
candidate, Krishnapillai known as Vellimali (candidate no 03) was parked
inside the Zonal Education Office.  Two hundred and forty one (241)
postal votes were registered from the department.