UNP Satyagraha against poll-related violence

The United National Party will launch a Satyagraha tomorrow (May 06th), against the government, the Elections Commissioner and the IGP to protest their failure to ensure an environment conducive for fair and free elections in the East.

The agitation begins in front of the office of the Elections Commissioner at 2.00 pm, UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake said.

Speaking to media he said the Satyagraha would condemn the conduct of the polls without first disarming the Pillayan-led TMVP.

Presently, a spate of election-related violence has been reported from the Batticaloa district where an armed group is intimidating voters and candidates, the UNP General Secretary said.

They are also being assaulted by armed groups who arrive in vehicles without number plates, he added.

As the day of the election draws near, the situation becomes increasingly grave, Attanayake said, adding that despite the many complaints lodged by the UNP to the police and the Elections Commissioner, the government has failed to take remedial measures.

Meanwhile, local election monitor PAFFREL says most of the violence so far targeted UNP candidates.

Lanka Polls Watch says it has received 57 incidents of poll-related violence.