AEO says the Eastern Provincial Council Election was free and fair despite Opposition allegations

Asian Election Observers Society says the Eastern Provincial Council Election was free and fair.
 Head of the observers Tericita Liyoko says the people in the province voted in the election with much eagerness. She pointed out the people in the province has realised the importance of restoring democracy in the area.
Mrs. Liyoko made these remarks at a media briefing held in Colombo this morning.
 The observers group includes members from ten countries.
Democratic Left Front says although there were few shortcomings in the eastern provincial council election the UPFA had claimed a clear mandate.
 Secretary of the party Vasudeva Nanayakkara in a press release points out the public had taken the maximum advantages from the opportunity they have obtained after 20 years. 
The Sri Lanka Freedom Party Women’s Organization notes the results of the election have clearly indicated the people of the eastern province have approved the government’s measures to develop the eastern province.
Meanwhile the main opposition United national Party said it would not accept results of the Eastern Province election .
UNP leader Ranil Wickremesinghe and SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem addressing a joint press conference in Colombo today said both parties would get onto streets to protest against gross malpractices that took place at the Eastern Provincial polls.Speaking to media Mr.Wickramasinghe said it is not a free and fair election .
He said the elections commissioner should have rejected ballots where poll rigging and malpractices were reported.Wickremesinghe added that he would take to the streets with a public backing to secure democracy