ANFREL launches expert mission to observe Sri Lanka presidential election
COLOMBO – The Bangkok-based Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL) launched its international expert election observation mission for the 2024 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka on Wednesday (11) deploying 10 observers, including two electoral analysts and a mission management team, across key areas of the country.
The 2024 Sri Lankan Presidential Election, scheduled for September 21, takes place at a critical juncture as the nation contends with economic instability, high inflation, and widespread public dissatisfaction. This election will play a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka’s political and economic future, with voters choosing among candidates who offer distinct visions for economic recovery and governance reforms.
Other significant issues at stake include the enforcement of Sri Lanka’s new campaign finance law, which aims to set expenditure limits, enhance transparency, and ensure financial accountability, as well as broader concerns related to ethnic relations, governance, and democratic reforms, especially in regions with minority populations.
Over the next 12 days, ANFREL observers deployed in seven of nine provinces, with a focus on 14 cities and their surrounding areas to provide a balanced observation of both urban and rural electoral practices, will engage with various electoral stakeholders and observe campaigning, voting and counting processes, and post-election activities.
In accordance with the Declaration of Principles and Code of Conduct for International Election Observation, ANFREL’s mission will uphold impartiality, objectivity, and integrity throughout the observation process.
The mission will thoroughly assess the conduct of the election, promoting international standards and best practices for free and fair elections. The mission will focus on five critical areas: the Constitutional and Legal Framework, the Campaign Environment, the Abuse of State Resources during Elections and Campaign Finance Law Compliance, Voter Engagement and Perception, and the Role of Media and Social Media.
ANFREL will release an interim report shortly after the election and publish a comprehensive final report upon the mission’s completion. Additionally, ANFREL will facilitate a post-election discussion on September 24, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Colombo time. Domestic and international observer groups will share their observations and findings, fostering a deeper understanding of the electoral process.
ANFREL hopes that the 2024 Presidential Election in Sri Lanka is conducted genuinely, with accountability, transparency, and inclusivity, truly reflecting the will of the people.
-ANFREL
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