(LANKAPUVATH | COLOMBO) – The National Election Commission has outlined the necessary regulations to be followed by the public during the 2024 General Election scheduled for Thursday, 14 November 2024.
Addressing a special media briefing today, Election Commission Chairman RML Ratnayake highlighted the following measures to be adhered to by voters.
Ballot papers;
Voters who have not received their ballot papers for the 2024 Parliament Election have been requested to obtain them from the Postal Office in their relevant area.
The public who are yet to receive ballot papers can also obtain them from the National Election Commission’s official website.
Documents required for voting;
Voters are required to carry their National Identity Cards (NIC) issued by the Department of Registration of Persons to be eligible to cast their vote in the election.
Those without a NIC can use a valid passport, a valid driving license, the pensioners Identity Card issued by the Department of Pensions, the Elders’ Identity Card issued by the Divisional Secretariat, the Bikkhu or Priest Identity Card issued by the Department of Registration of Persons, a letter issued by the Department of Registration of Persons confirming the particular of the National Identity Card, temporary Identity Card issued by the Election Commission, or temporary Identity Card issued to disabled persons by the Election Commission.
No photographs or videos;
The Election Commission advises the public to refrain from taking photographs or videos of ballot papers or the voting process.
Stating that it is prohibited to carry weapons or be intoxicated while casting votes, the Election Commission said security officials will take necessary action against such persons.
Leave for employees;
It is mandatory for public and private entities to grant leave for their employees to vote in the 2024 General Election.
The Election Commission said leave must be decided based on the distance required to travel.
No public screening of election;
Public screenings or gatherings for election viewing have been prohibited, with the public requested to remain at home.
The Election Commission also stated that the public is not allowed to stay near polling centres or counting centres.
Stating that the use of firecrackers and gatherings is prohibited, the Election Commission said it was a punishable offence.
The National Election Commission announced that all necessary measures have been taken to conduct the 2024 General Election from 07.00 am to 04.00 pm on Thursday (14 November).
The commission further said that the counting of postal votes will commence at around 4.55 pm on Thursday, while the counting of main votes will commence at around 07.15 pm as and when ballot boxes are received.
