Commonwealth observers calls for peaceful and transparent poll

Colombo (News 1st) - A group deployed by the Commonwealth to observe the presidential election in Sri Lanka has called on stakeholders to demonstrate a commitment to a “peaceful, transparent, credible and inclusive” poll. The Commonwealth Observer Group, whose members are drawn from various Commonwealth nations with backgrounds ranging from political, electoral, civil society and human rights as well as legal fields, will receive briefings from relevant stakeholders including election management officials, representatives of political parties, civil society groups, the police, members of the international community and citizen and international observers. In a statement, Chair of the COG, Prosper Bani said: “As independent observers, we will remain objective and impartial in discharging our duties." On Thursday, observers will deploy to various provinces across the country to observe preparations ahead of polling day