Final Report on Election Related Violence

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Final Report on Election Related Violence Presidential Election 2015 Centre for Monitoring Election Violence All rights reserved (c)Centre for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) Material from this publication may be used with acknowledgement given to the CMEV For further information please contact: Centre for Policy Alternatives 24/2, 28th Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 07 Sri Lanka Tel: +94 11 2565304-6, Fax: +94 11 471460 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.cpalanka.org www.cmev.org January 2015

Contents Page No

Executive Summary 04 - 08

Pre-Election Monitoring

1st Press release 11 2nd Press release 12 3rd Press release 13 - 14 4th Press release 14 - 15 5th Press release 15 - 17 6th Press release 18 7th Press release 19 - 20 8th Press release 21 - 22 9th Press release 22 - 23 10th Press release 23 - 24 11th Press release 25 - 27 12th Press release 28 13th Press release 29 - 31 14th Press release 31 - 33 15th Press release 33 - 37

Postal Vote Monitoring

Postal voting Communiqué 01 40 - 42 Postal voting Communiqué 02 42 - 45 Postal voting Communiqué 03 45 - 46

CMEV Interim Campaign Report 47 - 49 2

Pre-Election Tabulation Figures 51 - 54 Pre-Election Charts According to Tabulation Figures 55 - 59

Election Day Monitoring

1st Press release 62 - 63 2nd Press release 63 - 65 Statement at the Conclusion of Polling 8th January 2015 65 - 66 Summary of Election Day Incidents – by Electoral Division 69 - 105 Election Day Violence – Tabulation Figures 106 - 109 Election Day Violence – Charts According to Tabulation Figures 110 - 112

Post-Election Monitoring

1st Press release 115 - 116 2nd Press release 117 - 119 Post-Election Violence – Tabulation Figures 120 - 123 Post-Election Violence – Charts according to Tabulation Figures 124 - 126 A Comparison of Voter Turnout of Recent Three Elections 127 Profile of Voter Turnout of Recent Elections 128

Some Incidents Captured by CMEV Monitors 129 - 134

Media Coverage of CMEV 135 - 143

3 Executive Summary

Introduction: Context

Following the Presidential Proclamation to this effect, gazetted on 20.11.14, the in which the incumbent sought a third term and was defeated in this bid. It Commissioner of Elections announced 8th January 2015 as the date of election was called well in advance of the expiration of the incumbent’s term in office, and 6th December 2014 as the date of nominations. Nineteen (19) candidates prompting the argument that it was called by the incumbent to renew his man- submitted nominations including incumbent president Mahinda Rajapaksa as date in advance of the March 2015 release of the report of the UN Commission of the candidate of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) and former Secre- Investigation in Sri Lanka under the auspices of the UN Human Rights Council, tary of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and Minister of Health, Maithreepa- which was expected to be highly critical of the Rajapaksa regime. Furthermore, la Sirisena as the common candidate of the opposition. A period of four and half arraigned against him was arguably the broadest coalition of political parties in weeks was allocated for the election campaign, following the close of nomina- Sri Lankan electoral history with Sinhala Buddhist nationalist at one end and tions. Tamil nationalists at the other. Most significantly, the opposition platform pro- jected the democratic governance deficit and anti-corruption as its main plat- According to the electoral register, 2014 15,044,490 electors were qualified to form, pointing out that the dynastic political project of the Rajapaksa regime vote at 12,314 polling centres island -wide. A total of around 200,000 officers underpinned by the office of the executive presidency epitomized the erosion of (120,000 officers attached to polling stations) and over 16,000 monitors were democratic governance in the country. Accordingly, abolition or at least dimi- engaged in the electoral process. A total of 12,264,377 (81.52%) voters exercised nution of the powers of that office that aided and abetted the slide into populist their franchise, constituting an increase of 1,768,926 (7.03%) votes over the 2010 authoritarianism and facilitated corruption, was a key promise of the opposition Presidential Election. and occupied pride of place in the 100 day programme of governance reform it promised on winning the election. Equally significant was the consensus that Opposition Candidate Maithreepala Sirisena received 6,217,162 (51.28%) votes issues relating to the key challenges facing the country – the constitutional set- while the incumbent Mahinda Rajapaksa received 5,768,090 (47.58%). The in- tlement of the ethnic conflict or national question and the issue of accountability cumbent polled some 58% of the vote in the predominantly Sinhala Buddhist arising from the conduct and conclusion of the war against the Tamil Tigers majority areas and his opponent 41%. This constituted a drop in the incumbent’s –should be deferred till after the next general election. The ostensible rationale vote amongst this primary constituency of some 10% when compared with his for this was that these issues could best be dealt with once the governance deficit triumph in 2010 and accordingly laid the foundation for his defeat. Mr Sirisena was bridged – the latter being a necessary though not sufficient condition for the secured some 85% of the minority vote, however defined. Despite calls for a resolution of these issues. boycott by extreme Tamil nationalists in the north, the voter turn out was above 65% in these districts. The election campaign was fought against the backdrop of the populist authoritarianism and repression of the Rajapaksa regime – repression being most acute The January 2015 Presidential Election was significant in a number of respects. in the north where administration had come to be considerably militarized. Following the passage of the 18th Amendment to the Constitution in October Throughout the country, the space for media freedom and civil society activity, 2010 removing term limits on the presidency, it constituted the first election leave aside dissent, was shrunk to the point of extinction with the media often 4 practicing self-censorship out of fear of retribution and civil society actors re- From the perspective of rights and democratic governance founded upon them, maining silent for the same reason. The few that dared to defy this were targeted the role of the Election Commissioner bears special mention in defending the and vilified in the state controlled media and on political platforms in addition integrity of the electoral process at crucial times throughout the campaign and to being subjected to harassment through constant questioning and detention. on Election Day. Key events that formed the backdrop to the election were the three resolutions on Sri Lanka in the UN Human Rights Council in 2012, 13 and 14 – the last This was the first national election after Commissioner of Elections’ powers to providing for a Commission of Investigation into allegations of war crimes and ensure a free and fair election were weakened by the 18th Amendment. Howev- crimes against humanity, allegedly committed by the forces of the Government er, without clear and explicit legal provision and by depending on the actions of of Sri Lanka and the LTTE- the universally condemned impeachment of the previous Commissioners and the agreement of party leaders, the Commissioner 43rd Chief Justice in 2014, continuing attacks on Christian and Muslim places issued a circular bearing No.PRE/2015/43 and dated 22.11.2014 to prevent mis- of worship and work, with impunity and the widespread perception, as a conse- use of resources of the State, State Corporations and Statutory Boards and limit quence, of regime sponsorship of these attacks. recruitment, promotions or transfers of public officials and government servants during the period of presidential election. He further requested, by his circular As the election approached though, space opened up and civil society coalitions dated 26.11.2014, all heads of government institutions to confirm ‘follow up ac- emerged to campaign for the abolition of the executive presidency and the res- tions”for ensuring prevent of misuse of state resources for election campaigning. toration of democratic governance. The possibility of reform though hinged on The Commissioner also suspended the use of national or local development pro- the choice of a suitable challenger to the incumbent, in particular one from his grammes and official ceremonies for the promotion of presidential candidates majority Sinhala Buddhist constituency and party. The emergence of Mr. Siris- by his circular dated 24.11.2014. and issued guidelines for media in relation to ena in this role was a major fillip to these efforts and a considerable surprise to their roles and responsibilities during the election through gazette notification the Rajapaksa regime. No. 1890/02, dated 24.11.2014.

The short campaign, unprecedented and gross imbalance in resources in favour Furthermore on Election Day, the Commissioner took decisive action in assur- of the incumbent, had the effect of reducing the incidents of violence through- ing voters in the north of their right to the franchise and in respect of a state out the campaign and on polling day. However, in addition to the egregious controlled media institution broadcasting misleading information of a political abuse of state resources by the incumbent – from the use and abuse of vehicles nature which had a bearing on the election. and public servants to the flagrant misuse of government finances and the state – controlled media- his supporters and sympathisers were identified as the alleged In addition to the role of the Election Commissioner, mention must also be made perpetrators in a number of major incidents of violence ranging from attempted of the role of the Attorney General and forces commanders in light of allegations murder, assault, threat and intimidation to arson attacks. A number of incidents that there were attempts to declare a state of Emergency, deploy the armed forc- in which the regime sought to deny the opposition the facilities for holding pub- es and stop the counting of votes on the morning of the 9th of January. These lic meetings were also recorded, resulting in the opposition having to resort to a actions of public officials and forces commanders underline the importance of number of smaller-scale pocket meetings organized by volunteers. In the north, ensuring robust institutions and processes to protect and defend the integrity of as in the September 2013 provincial elections, voter intimidation only served to the electoral process. reinforce voter determination to vote against the Rajapaksa regime. Voter turnout in the Jaffna and Vanni Districts were 66.28% and 72.75%, respectively.

5 CMEV Process to face physical threats and harm, in the context of this Presidential Election, given the known capabilities of the State, also raised fears over disruptive opera- CMEV commenced its monitoring of election related violence and malpractice tions in cyberspace aimed at CMEV’s information gathering and dissemination. in the 2015 Presidential election on 1st December 2014. The methodology used for monitoring the campaign, Election Day and the post-election period was This led to an unprecedented level of planning around the information securi- the same as adopted and developed over 17 years of monitoring, but with cer- ty and information dissemination capabilities and capacities of CMEV. CMEV tain variations necessitated by the ground situation. Monitoring also covered the used Google Maps to record campaign violence and incidents of violence on print media during the election period and a public interest media campaign Election Day. CMEV is the only election violence monitoring body in Sri Lanka against election violence. that uses web based mapping to highlight key incidents.

During the pre-election or campaign period, CMEV deployed 180 long -term The domain CMEV.org was registered (moving away from the domain associat- Field Observers including 22 District Coordinators. All observers were given ed with Wordpress.com), making it easier to access the main website of CMEV a comprehensive two- day training prior to their deployment. Postal voting as well as making it easier to get to key content in Sinhala, Tamil and English. was also observed. Election Day monitoring was conducted with 3600 Static The backend continued to be WordPress and with the domain registration, add- Observers deployed inside polling stations and 230 Mobile Teams comprising ed security was enabled, in order to prevent unauthorized access as well as at- two members each. For the first time election monitors were allowed to have a tempts to hack into the site and disrupt CMEV operations. presence in Counting Centres and accordingly, CMEV stationed 83 counting centre observers in 8 districts. CMEV also monitored incidents of post-election Mailchimp.org was used to send out emails including situation reports, eye-wit- violence. This process was coordinated by provincial desks established in the ness accounts, vital background information and conduct voter awareness cam- CMEV Headquarters in Colombo. CMEV also assisted the Department of Elec- paigns. For the first time, a secure means through which to communicate with tions in ensuring voter identification documents for those not in possession of CMEV was also opened to anyone from the general public, in order to encour- them. age whistleblowing around election irregularities, malpractices and violence.

Also for the first time, CMEV used WhatsApp over a dedicated smartphone in Use of Social Media order to push out vital updates in the form of text, audio and video. Around the 7th of January, there were two WhatsApp groups in operation, pushing out up- CMEV’s operations in campaign period included the first time use of mobile dates to around 350 individuals both in Sri Lanka and outside, from the media, technologies as well as, anchored to usual practice, the use of web and social diplomatic corps, civil society, academia and other sectors (to the extent that media apps, platforms and tools to monitor, record and disseminate election could be discerned from the numbers provided). The service was opt in, and related violence. widely publicized over social media and the web as a means of getting CMEV updates around the clock to one’s mobile. WhatsApp also leverage the fact that The context of CMEV operations leading up to Election Day was one of height- mobile phone penetration in the country is extremely high, with most phones ened anxiety, both around the violence in the lead up to the election and the sold today being smartphones. overarching pervasive architecture of surveillance, coupled with the high risk of violent pushback if Mahinda Rajapaksa was re-elected against those perceived In addition to the above, CMEV and Groundviews also launched an Instagram by him to be supportive of the opposition. Whereas CMEV operations are geared account, through which images around CMEV operations were pushed out. In- 6 stagram growth in Sri Lanka is skyrocketing, and was chosen as a platform to Postal Voting push visual updates from CMEV because of its wide reach within the country. A total of 541,831 voters were eligible for postal voting on the 23rd, 24th, CMEV’s website featured dozens of updates in English, Tamil and Sinhala, in- 26thand 30th December 2014. CMEV deployed 900 polling centre observers cluding podcasts (recorded in the field as well as in the HQ over smartphones) and 185 mobile observers to monitor postal voting island wide. CMEV recorded and video. CMEV operations were also exhaustively covered over Twitter (via 65 incidents related to the postal vote during the first three days of the postal @CMEV), which currently features 674 followers. A number of tweets were voting. Unavailability of finalized list of postal vote centers until the day prior to retweeted over Groundviews (via @groundviews) and CPA’s institutional Twit- the postal vote, disparities between actual numbers of postal votes and number ter account (@CPASL), ensuring the widest possible reach for the most vital stated in the registers of certifying officers and the rejection of a large number updates pushed out by CMEV. of applications due to delays in submission, were observed as major issues in the administration of postal voting. A particular case reported to CMEV was from Pre Election Monitoring the Puttalm Zonal Education Office where 30 of the 140 applications made were rejected on account of delays in submission. By the end of election campaign period, CMEV reported a total of 543 incidents of election related violence and malpractices of which, 304 were categorized as The most serious irregularities including the disparity between actual and reg- Major Incidents involving 1 murder, 3 attempted murders, 3 grievous hurt, 1 istered numbers of postal voters were reported from the Northern Province, es- hurt, 64 assaults, 32 threat and intimidation, 17 damage to property, 1 robbery, pecially from Civil Defense Force camps located in the Kilinochchi and Mullai- 11 arsons, 1 abduction, 11 bribery and 159 instances of the misuse of state re- tivu districts. Allowing employees attached to the farms maintained by the Civil sources. Minor incidents were recorded at 239. Most of the Major Incidents Defense Force to cast postal votes, was a new development. CMEV monitors were reported from Jaffna (25), Kandy (24) and Kurunegala (23) districts. In observed that most of the postal voters themselves were unaware as to why they 169 instances, the ruling UPFA was the perpetrator, while 51 complaints were had been given a postal vote, not even being aware of whether they are perma- received without identification of the party affiliation of the perpetrator. nently employed as government servants or not. Furthermore they had not ap- The partiality of the Police towards the ruling political party and inaction in plied for postal votes. Most of the persons employed on farms maintained by the response to complaints made by opposition supporters was conspicuous during Civil Defense Force were former LTTE cadres who had been rehabilitated. Most the campaign. CMEV was informed of several incidents where the Police were were not aware or familiar with the voting process. Observers reported that they reluctant to record and /or take action on complaints made by members of the had been forcibly prevented from exercising their franchise at the Provincial opposition party, as seen in Wellawaya and Payagala. A few police stations such Council elections held in September 2013. as Katugasthota and Kathankudi, refused to give CMEV information regarding complaints of election violence. CMEV also noted that incidents of election re- Election Day Violence lated violence were recorded as criminal Complants (CIB) by Pussellewa, Point Pedro and Borella Police Stations. CMEV was involved in monitoring both the polling and counting processes. A total of 15,044,490 voters had qualified to cast their vote at 12,314 polling centres island -wide on 8th January 2015. CMEV observed a total of 6974 (56.63%) polling centres with 222 recorded incidents related to the polling centres. Out of that total 100 incidents were categorized as Major and 122 as Minor Incidents.

7 The majority of Major Incidents were reported from Puttalam(11), Gampa- choice and change in a functioning democracy and every effort should be made ha(10) and Kandy(9) Districts. to ensure widespread public awareness of the electoral system and mechanisms.

Post Election Violence Acknowledgements

CMEV recorded 51 incidents of post-election violence in the week following CMEV wishes to thank the Commissioner of Elections and his officials through- the election. Of this total, 32 incidents were categorized as Major including 14 out the country for their support and cooperation. Likewise, CMEV thanks the assaults, 6 grievous hurts, 5 threat and intimidations and 19 incidents were cate- Police for its cooperation and assistance. We also wish to thank USAID and the gorized as Minor. Post-election violence intensified following the establishment Canadian Government for their financial support. of new government. However, the prompt response of the Police prevented violence from spreading. Last but not least, we wish to thank all our observers, staff and volunteers for their commitment and hard work and the public at large for their support and Recommendations encouragement, all of which was pivotal to our monitoring of this historic election. CMEV notes and welcomes the commitment of the Sirisena presidency to re- introduce the oversight commissions that were provided for under the Seven- teenth Amendment and effectively vitiated by the provisions of the Eighteenth Amendment. We note too that oversight commissions and an Elections Com- mission, in particular, will not in themselves, constitute a panacea in respect of electoral violence nor the promised change of the electoral system to a hybrid one combining proportional representation and the first- past – the post – sys- tems. A complementing political culture too is crucial and will in turn also af- fect the operation of oversight bodies and state institutions whose independence is fundamental to their work. In this regard we strongly urge political parties to democratize their internal workings and in their participation in the reform debate, to not lose sight of the overall objective of bridging the governance deficit, the ostensible objective of the winning coalition in the 2015 Presidential Election.

Electoral reform must be preceded by an informed debate and delimitation, which is an integral part of it must emerge from inclusive consultations with all stakeholders. Once electoral reform and delimitation are agreed upon and legislation passed, a period in which the voting public will be made aware of the new system and informed about its operation should follow before elections are held on the basis of the new system. Elections are the basic mechanism for 8 Pre-Election Monitoring ______Presidential Election - 2015

9 10 Ven Sumanaratna Thero said to CMEV that they are not in a position to make any complaint at any Police Station as the perpetrators are Police officers themselves. He further said that they are very helpless at this time and do not know what to do next.

th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. When CMEV contacted C.I. Hettiarachchi, OIC of the Batticaloa Police Sta- Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. tion, he categorically denied the allegation made by Ven Ampitiya Sumanratha- E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org na Thero. He said that the police did not attack anyone and that the people

behaved in a disruptive manner. Presidential Election 2015 CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Communiqué 1 Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election On 20th December 2014 at 0200 hrs related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. Brutal attack on Civilians in Batticaloa All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org CMEV received a complaint from Rev Ampitiye Sumanaratna Thero that a group of civilians protested that their voting rights should be ensured. They attempted to submit a petition to the President in this regard and allege that they were attacked by the Police at around 6.30 p.m. on the 19th December 2014 in front of the Batticaloa Police Station.

A group of Buddhist priests led by Rev Ampitiye Sumanaratna Thero and group of Sinhalese resettled in Keviliyamaduwa village in Batticaloa District had tried Dr. P. Saravanamuttu. to meet President Mahinda Rajapaksha after the meeting held at Hindu College Co - Convenor in Batticaloa on the 19th of December with the purpose of submitting a petition demanding their voting rights and a few other basic facilities. They have repeatedly requested permission to meet President Mahinda Rajapaksha. According to Rev Ampitiye Sumanaratne Thero, the request was rejected by the Police. When they tried to reach the location of the meeting , irrespective of Police permission to do so , they were attacked brutally. One of the members of the group had been stripped naked and a few others have been attacked by the Police. Four members including a pregnant women have been admitted to the Teaching Hospital in Batticaloa, according to the report made by Sumanaratne Thero to CMEV.

11 not reject them when they offered their services voluntarily for political activities. He also said that since he is former Director of the Civil Defence Unit (CDU) he does not have any connection with the CDU at present.

The Minister maintains that the CDU has not been engaged in new recruitment since 24/2, 28th Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. the end of the war in 2009. Nevertheless, he did say that the CDU has selected individ- Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. uals with vocational qualifications for recruitment after 8th January 2015. According E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org to him this impending recruitment is crucial since a lot of construction work has to be completed. Finally, he stressed that if CDU officers get involved in political activities Presidential Election 2015 during their working hours, this would be a violation of both labour and election laws. However, he continued to maintain that in the Ampara district CDU officers had only engaged in political activities after working hours and were therefore not violating the Media Communiqué 2 election law.

On 21st December 2014 at 2112 hrs CMEV was unable to speak to Mr Pathmawansa, Commanding Officer, CDU, Dehi- atthakkandiya but spoke with an officer, Mr Shriyantha who said that according to his Use of Civil Defense Officers for election campaign activities in Ampara knowledge officers in his office were not being used for political activities. He further District. said that they could not engage in political activities in support of any candidate even after working hours, since they are government servants. CMEV received a complaint from a civil defense officer who wishes to remain anony- CMEV subsequently spoke with an officer in the office of the Additional Election- Com mous. The complaint is that Civil Defense officers are being used for election activities missioner in Ampara, who informed CMEV that his office had received many com- in support of President Mahinda Rajapaksha. Further he said that new recruitments are plaints about CDU officers being engaged in political activity in support of the incum- being made during this period by Deputy Minister of Labor and Labor Relations, Hon bent President. He directed CMEV to Mr Jayasekara, the officer in charge of election Sarath Weerasekera . According to the complainant, Civil Defense officers have been complaints. Mr. Jayasekera was not contactable. threatened that if they do not get involved in the Rajapaksha campaign, their jobs will be in jeopardy. CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media

Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and It is important to note that these officers have been forced to engage in campaign activ- non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence ities, based at the Minister’s office located near the market in Dehiatthakkandiya town. of election related violence. He noted that these officers have been assigned the tasks of making and pasting posters, Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Docu- cutouts and distributing leaflets of President Rajapaksha. mentation Centre.

When CMEV contacted Dehiatthakkandiya Poilce Station, we were informed that many young persons had come to the Police Stations last month to obtain a police report in order to get a job with the Civil Defense Force.

When CMEV contacted Minister Sarath Weerasekera, he completely denied these alle- Dr. P. Saravanamuttu. gations. Moreover he said that the Civil Defence Officers were free to engage in political Co - Convenor activities after 4.30 PM since they are paid on a daily basis. He further said that he could 12

Assault on Veedi Virodaya in Hambantota

An assault not directly related to the presidential election campaign of any candidate butone which has a bearing on the current political climate and is th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. reflective of it, was reported to CMEV on Sunday 21 st December. Mr Sam- Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. path Samarakoon, told CMEV that when a group of street drama and human E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org rights activists were to perform a street drama at the Hambantota bus stand on

the theme ‘Veedi Virodaya’, they were attacked by Hambantota Urban Council Presidential Election 2015 Chairman Eraj Frenando.

Media Communiqué 3 Mr. Ayub Khan, the Opposition Leader, Hambantota Urban Council was one of the victims of this attack. When CMEV contacted him, he said that the group On 21st December 2014 at 0200 hrs was brutally attacked with sticks. He also said that they had informed the Police regarding their street drama and further, that the Police had not taken any state- Attack in Kotte ment from the victims.

CMEV received a complaint from Dr. Harsha De Silva, UNP organizer, Kotte, When CMEV contacted Mr.Eraj Fernanado, he said that at around 9.45 AM he that a group of supporters of Maithreepala Sirisena was attacked by a group had gone to the Hambantota town and that whilst he was waiting for his secre- headed by Manjuala Budhhadasa. Mr Buddhadasa is a Member of the Western tary he had encountered Mr. Khan and inquired from him as to whether permis- Provincial Council and the son of Mayor G.H. Buddhadasa, Kaduwela Munic- sion had been obtained from the Urban Council for the street drama. Mr. Khan ipal Council. Dr. De Silva asked CMEV to contact Harshani Sandaruwani, one had replied in the affirmative. Mr. Fernando further said that since market peo- of the victims of the attack, for further information. Harshani Sandaruwani is ple came to the spot it turned into a chaos one. He said that Police came to the the leader of the group in charge of leaflet distribution for the New Democratic place and had asked him to leave that place. He continued to say that he left the Front in the Nawala area. place and made a complaint at Hambantota Police Station for his future security. According to Mr. Fernando, there was not a fight but a only a demonstration. Ms. Sandaruwan told CMEV that when they were distributing leaflets of the Common Opposition Candidate Maithreepala Sirisena at the Nawala- Koswat- When CMEV contacted Hambantota Police OIC , CI Buddhika at around 1 PM, tha Junction, a group of people arrived in a white colour cab (WP KV9902) he said that they did not receive any complaint about this incident. He further and approached a MSD policeman who summoned them. Manjula Buddhadasa said that this drama group had not informed the Police regarding this and that it also got down from the vehicle and slapped a male person. He also snatched was the public at the bus stand who had disrupted the street drama. He also said all the posters and threw them away. He further removed green coloured cap that he will conduct an inquiry into the incident. from a person and threatened the group that if they came to these areas again, he will kill them. According to Harshani Sandaruwani this incident happened When CMEV contacted Mr Sumith Disaanayaka, a human right activist he at around 2.15 PM on 20th Dec 2014. Further she said that two policemen were said that although they had performed this drama in several places across the present at the incident but did not take any action regarding it. country, they did not face any problems. Mr Sumith Dissanayaka also informed 13 CMEV that the Inspector General of Police had been informed of the incident in writing.

When CMEV contacted the main UNP office in Hambantota, the secretary of MP Sajith Premadsa, Mr Samarasinge said that the group led by Eraj Fernanado th had attacked the street drama group with the intention of sabotaging Mr. Mai- 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. threepala Sirisena’s election campaign. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org Presidential Election 2015

Media Communiqué 4

On 6th December, Beruwala town, Kaluthara District

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu CMEV monitor reported that supporters of United People Freedom Alliance Co – Convenor (UPFA) had attacked former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and Provincial Councilor Ms. Hirunika Premachandra at about 10.00pm. After a rally in Beruwala town, President Kumaratunga and Ms Premachandara had gone to dinner at Provincial Councilor Mohammed Jemine Marikar Moham- med Isthikar’s house , some 350m from Beruwala town(Peenawala). During the dinner a group of people had hooted and stoned the house. President Kumara- tunga and Ms Premachandra had managed to leave the house with the support of their security and supporters of the common opposition candidate. Accord- ing to the CMEV monitor, the Police and Special Task Force had run for cover.

Subsequently, a fight ensued involving both parties resulting in damages to property including President Kumaratunga’s vehicle. A supporter of common opposition candidate, former opposition Urban Council leader Mohammed Mansoor Dalhan was taken to Beruwala base hospital but refused admittance by the hospital.

The Special Task force and Beruwala Police were able to disperse crowd. According to the Out Patient Department (OPD) doctor, Ms Samarasinghe, the police had issued instructions to not admit any casualties to the hospital.

14 Mr. Mohammed told CMEV that Beruwala Police OIC Duminda Rajapaksha refused to provide the former president with security from the outset. However, the OIC told CMEV that he had provided a 40 -man squad for this purpose.

Ms Premachandra confirmed the above incident and blamed it on the inactivity th of the Police and Special Task Force. 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election Presidential Election 2015 related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. Media Communiqué 5

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org On 27th December 2014 at 1900 hrs

Offering letter to offer permanent jobs at Civil Security Department during the period of Presidential Election – 2015

CMEV received a complaint from a Civil Security Officer that many employees at the Civil Security Department (CSD) have been given permanent jobs effec- Dr. P. Saravanamuttu tive from 19th Dec 2014. He repeatedly asked CMEV not to reveal his identity, Co – Convenor as he believed that his job would be in jeopardy. Further he said that thousands of civil security officers have been given letters making them permanent, after many years as temporary employees. According to him thousands of CSD officers are being used for President Mahinda Rajapaksha ‘s election campaign by making their temporary jobs permanent .

According provision no 7 of the circular issued by Department of Election on 2nd Dec 2014, no person can be offered a job in the government sector after the declaration of the Presidential Election. In the letter, a copy of which CMEV received from the complainant and is attached, it is clearly stated that this officer will come under the category of a permanent government servant effective from 19th Dec 2014. This is a serious violation of Election Law.

CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- 15 dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre.

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Co – Convenor

16 17 All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org

24/2, 28th Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org Dr. P. Saravanamuttu

Co – Convenor Presidential Election 2015

Media Communiqué 6

On 28th December 2014 at 1100 hrs

An attack on NDF party office in Erakkandi, Trincomalee

CMEV received a complaint that the New Democratic Front (NDF) party office located at Erakkandi, Trincomalee had been attacked. The complainant, Mr Firthous, the secretary for monitoring election activities for NDF in Erak- kandi area, said that this incident had taken place at around 1 am on 28th December 2014.

Further, he said that seven iron polls belonging to the party which were used for hanging flags had been stolen. According to him one iron poll cost around Rs.2000.00. He also said the office decorations had been completely destroyed. According to Mr Firthous, this is a notified party office with the approval of the Election Commissioner and police. When CMEV contacted Mr Firthous he was on his way to Kucchaveli Police Station, to make a complaint with regard to the incident .

CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. 18 25th December, assault at Galpaya, Kandy District

CMEV was informed of an incident on 25 December related to an assault on Rohana Kumara, whose father-in-law, Mr. Karunathilaka, is a Pradeshiya Sabha member and supporter of the UNP (formerly with the UPFA). According to th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Rohana, he was traveling when a van crossed his path and parked in front of him. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. Rohana was driving Karunathilaka’s vehicle at the time. Rohana said that the E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org four people who attacked him and the vehicle must have thought Karunathilaka

was in the vehicle at the time. A police complaint was filed under 245/216 MOIB. Presidential Election 2015 27th December, public property misuse in Kantalai, Trincomalee District Media Communiqué 7 CMEV was reported of an incident of public property misuse on 27th Decem- On 28th December 2014 at 2330 hrs ber. A SLTB bus (WP NP 4979) was used to transport about 200-300 persons from around Kantalai to attend a programme called ‘Juriya Obai’ conducted by CMEV has recorded a cumulative total of 180 incidents of election related the International Television Network (ITN) on the 27th at Lake Front Hotel in violence since the issue of the Gazette Notification on 20th November 2014 Kanthalai on behalf of the Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa. announcing the Presidential Election. Of these, 108 are classified as major and 72 as minor incidents. The highest number of incidents have been reported in 26th December, Party office attacked, Manikitta, Kandy District Colombo (15) District. CMEV highlights the most recent confirmed major incidents below; A party office of the United National Party (UNP) maintained by H.A Sisil Jay- awardana was attacked by a group of unknown people on the night of 26th De- 28th December, threat in Gampola, Kandy District cember. Further, several cut outs of Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena in the vicinity were destroyed. A police complaint was filed (E:R.I.B. 81/55). It was reported to CMEV that Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratna and several supporters had entered the United National Party (UNP) head office in Gampola and 28th December, illegal campaign in Thambuththegama, Anuradhapura District threatened those at the office saying “hondinnan hondin, narakinnan narakin math balagannanko”. According to Samantha Anurakumara who maintains the A CMEV monitor reported that a demo vehicle plated LH 1943 was driving office and who had been present at the time, the Prime Minister and supporters around in the above area (at about 4 pm) speaking to the public (via loudspeak- arrived after a meeting at the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) office. A ers) about a political meeting chaired by the Secretary to the Ministry of De- complaint was filed at Gampola Police Station CIB (3) 19/292 but complainants fence and Urban Development, Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, in support of the UPFA at have requested the police to not carry out further investigations due to fear of the Weheregala Buddhist Centre. When CMEV spoke to Rajangana Pradeshiya reprisals. Sabha Chairman, G.H.Sarath Gamini, he confirmed that there was a meeting scheduled to take place.

19 28th December, illegal campaign in Nuwaragama, Anuradhapura District 28th December, party office attacked in Minuwangoda, Gampaha District

A CMEV monitor reported that school bags printed with a picture of Presiden- CMEV received a complaint that a group of people attacked a United Nation- tial Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were distributed to flood victims at the Jaya- al Party (UNP) party office maintained by Warnakilasuriya Henry Josephe bima Hall which belongs to the Pradeshiya Sabha. Nagenahira Nuwaragampal- Fernando in the above location. Three 10x4 cutouts and six 12 feet iron poles atha Pradeshiya Sabha member, D.P. Bandulasena, informed CMEV that they were stolen. A complaint has been made at Minuwangoda Police Station 11/ had distributed bags to the children of the flood victims but denied knowledge MGERIB. of the bags being printed with any image. CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the 27th December, public property misuse in Horana, Kaluthara District Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of CMEV was reported of a public property misuse in the above area on 28th of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM December when the Horana Vidyarathna Vidyalay had been used for a meet- Human Rights Documentation Centre. ing by the Western Provincial Council member Yasapala Koralage (UPFA). CMEV had been notified the previous day (27th) that a meeting and walk were All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org being organised. After a complaint was made to the Election Secretariat in Rajagiriya by CMEV on the 27th, the rally had been cancelled but the meeting had taken place.

28th December, illegal campaign at Bauddaloka Mawatha, Borella

CMEV received information about the use of public servants for the election Dr. P. Saravanamuttu campaign of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) in the above Co – Convenor location. Officers from the Land Reclamation and Development Cooperation distributed election materials of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa on the roads in the above area on 28th December.

28th December, police misconduct in Halawatha, Kaluthara District

CMEV received a complaint of an unauthorized display of a cutout of Presi- dential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa in the land which was apparently belonging to Hettiarachchige Don Weerarathna. When the police intervened to take down the cutout, the Road Development Authority had said that this particular cutout was in the land which belongs to them. The police instead covered it with a black cloth but the cutout has not been taken down as yet.

20 29th December, Mahiyangana, Midahangala junction, Badulla District

It was reported to CMEV that an authorized United National Party (UNP) office at the above location maintained by Provincial Councilor M Surasena had been attacked yesterday (28th) around 10.00 pm. According to him, an unidentified th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. group (about 15 people) had arrived in a red Defender, White Trooper jeep and Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. a Navara cab. Four armed persons had fired shots towards the sky and had at- E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org tacked six people who had been at the office at the time. One disabled soldier

and two boys aged 13 and 15 respectively had also been there. Presidential Election 2015 According to Mr Surasena, five individuals have been injured with one person Media Communiqué 8 in a serious condition. Property damage in the above attack includes damages to personal property (a Toyota car (CP/GM/0482), Nissan van (251-1500) and On 29th December 2014 at 1800 hrs a motorcycle (UP/BAO/1477) the total cost of which is yet to be estimate. Fur- thermore he suspects the culprits to be supporters of United People Freedom 29th December, Attack on ‘Yowun Parapura’ street concert in Gokarella, Kurune- Alliance (UPFA) organizer Mahiyangana Anura Vidanagamage and Badulla gala District District MP Thenuka Widanagamage.

CMEV received information of an attack at Kumbukgete junction in the Gokarel- CMEV was unable to reach Mr Vidanagamage via phone to get a statement. la area where a street concert was taking place with an audience of about 150 Mr Surasena had gone to hospitalize the victims leaving Lieutenant Chandrase- people. Youth artistes such as Samanalee Fonseka, Jagath Manuwarna, Indra- na (Surasena’s brother) and the disabled soldier behind. The culprits returned chapa Liyanage, Lakshman Wijesekara and Udaya Dharmawardhana were per- and attacked them. The disabled soldier’s prosthetic leg was stolen and he was forming when the attack took place (at about 12 30 p.m.). A group of people subsequently hospitalized and awaiting procedures. headed by UPFA Provincial Councilor Don Kamal Indika were distributing leaflets. Subsequently this group, who were in blue ‘Nil balakaya’ T shirts had After Mr Surasena made a complaint at the Mahaiyangana Police Station, police started hooting and yelling abuse and throwing rocks at the performers. Two surveillance had been deployed to his residence and police investigations have police officers were there at the time, but had done nothing to stop the attack. begun. Samanalee Fonseka and Udaya Dharmawardhana had been stoned while Laksh- man Wijesekara had been kicked. No complaint has been filed with the police The Mahiyangana Police Station, when approached by CMEV confirmed that due to fear of reprisals. they received an emergency call ( on 119/118) regarding this incident around 10.45pm yesterday (28th) and that they sent a group of police officers to the When CMEV spoke to Officer in Charge Dias at the Gokarella Police Station, he above location around 11.00pm. Currently police investigations are underway. said that they had only been informed of a verbal dispute between the two sides. The police have arrested two suspects who are appearing at Mahiyangana Mag- He further said that two police officers who were regulating traffic at Ibbagamu- istrate court on 29th evening. wa had been sent there and that no complaints were received.

21 Mahiyangana Base hospital said that three victims were admitted to ward 08 last night (28th) and some were admitted in the morning. Director of Mahiyangana Base Hospital said that four persons are under medical treatment and one is in serious condition.

th When approached by CMEV, Mahiyangana United National Party organizer 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Upali Senarathne, who is still at the location, says that he suspects this attack Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. was by Anura Vidanagamage. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Presidential Election 2015 Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election Media Communiqué 9 related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. On 30th December 2014 at 1900 hrs

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org CMEV monitor attacked in Polonnaruwa.

CMEV was informed of electioneering by two groups of Buddhist monks- a local group of monks in support of Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena and the Bodu Bala Sena in support of President Mahinda Rajapakse. CMEV monitor J.P.A.M Jayasekara reported that both groups were electioneering in close proximity to each other and that there had been a clash between the two Dr. P. Saravanamuttu groups, which he had attempted to photograph. Two incidents followed this Co – Convenor clash in which the CMEV monitor was threatened and attacked. They are listed in detail below.

The first incident was at around 10am when a small group of monks had been distributing leaflets in support of Common Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena and a supporter had threatened the CMEV monitor and asked him to delete photographs he had taken. He had deleted the photographs under duress. The second incident occurred around 12.30pm when the CMEV monitor was dispatched to observe election campaign activity near the Bank of Ceylon Kadu- ruwela Branch. In the lead were several members of Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) who had been distributing leaflets in support of President Mahinda Rajapakse. Ac- cording to Mr.Jayasekara, he had taken out his camera to take photographs, he was attacked by a supporter of Siripala Gamlath (Deputy Minister of Lands & 22 Land Development and District Coordinator of Polonnaruwa District, United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA)) who had snatched his camera. During this time he was also assaulted on his right leg. Subsequently, the CMEV monitor visited Siripala Gamlath’s office to retrieve the camera. Although his camera was returned, all images and videos relating to the above incident had been deleted. th A police complaint has been made with SSP G.A.N.L.Wijesena, Polonnaruwa. 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org On 31st December 2014 at 2200 hrs

Electioneering under the guise of distributing rice for flood victims in Paddirup- pu - Batticaloa CMEV monitor in Batticaloa, Mr. KirubanandaSivam, informed CMEV of a meeting in Rasamanikkam Hall, Paddiruppu, Batticaloa at around 11 am on Dr. P. Saravanamuttu 31st December where Deputy Minister of Resettlement Vinayagamoorthy Mu- Co – Convenor ralitharan had distributed rice to families who were displaced by the floods.

Mr. Sivam who was present at this meeting says that around 60 families who were affected by the heavy rains were offered rice. At the meeting which lasted for about an hour, Minister Muralitharan had emphasized that the rice was distributed under the guidelines of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and had requested the recipients to cast their votes for President Rajapaksa.

31st December, UPFA procession conducted by Nil Balakaya in Matara An election procession in support of President Mahinda Rajapaksa took place near the United Peoples’ Freedom Alliance (UPFA) party office near Nupe Junc- tion in Matara. According to the CMEV monitor in Matara, Member of Parlia- ment Namal Rajapaksa, Deputy Minister of Postal Services Sanath Jayasuriya and many UPFA local government representatives along with about 1500 people had taken part in this procession which started at about 9 15 a.m. Individuals in Nil Balakaya T shirts were shouting the phrase ‘EdatthadathMahindamai. Jana- 23 paththithumata Jaya Wewa!’. The processionwhich had caused much congestion in the area and had ended in a meeting at the Sanath Jayasuriya Ground in Matara.

The Election Complaints Section at the Matara Police informed CMEV that it was not a rally but a canvasing walk where people distributed leaflets.CMEV was unable to reach the Officer in Charge.

CMEV also spoke to the Matara Urban Council Opposition Leader Upul Nis- hantha who said a large number of people had been transported in SLTB buses and that the procession had caused much congestion.

Images taken by the CMEV monitor indicate buses from Hakmana, Galle, Am- balangoda and Alpitiya. Alpitiya Depot Operation Assistant A.G. Suranga said that thirty to forty buses are sometimes assigned to transport people and that seven buses were used for this specific procession. He further said that no payment was made for them. However, he refused to mention who gave permission for the seven buses to be released. CMEV was informed by the SLTB head office in Narahenpitiyathat that no buses were released for this particular procession and that thebuses are only released when a payment is made.

CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre.

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Co – Convenor

24 up on the incident with the Kahawatta Police Station. Pelmadulla Base Hospital Medical officer in charge Dr. Waruna Sampath confirmed that Mr Senaviratne had been admitted to Hospital and that he had sustained minor injuries to the head.

th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Army and Navy attempt to obtain details of polling centres from Assistant Election Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. Commissioner, Mullaitivu E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

Assistant Election Commissioner of Mullaitivu Mr R Saslaian reported to CMEV Presidential Election 2015 that he was requested to provide details of the polling centres of the Mullaitivu electorate, specifically the number of voters per polling station. Media Communiqué 11 According to Mr Saslaian two persons from the Navy approached him on Janu- On 4th January 2015 at 1300 hrs ary 1st requesting the above information. Mr Saslaian refused this request on the basis that he is not authorised to disclose it. Mr Saslaian informed the officers 2nd January, Common Candidate Maithripala Sirisena’s rally attacked- Pelmadulla that if they wish to get this information they would have to obtain a letter of authorisation from the Election Commissioner. On January 2nd the same indi- It was reported to CMEV that a public meeting conducted by Common Pres- viduals had arrived at the Department of Elections, Mullativu and repeated the idential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena near Pelmadulla depot came under at- request, having identified themselves as being from the Nandikadal Navy Camp. tack at about 7.20 pm. Mr Saslaian had denied the request for the second time.

As soon as the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Councilor Manjula Dias Wikraman- On January 3rd an unidentified individual telephoned Mr Saslaian and re- ayake’s speech was concluded, assailants aimed stones at Mr Sirisena, who was quested the same information. Subsequently two Army officers approached Mr soon ushered away by his security officers. Pelmadulla Electorate Organizer Saslaian and stated that Major Mendis had sent them to obtain the said details. H.D.D Senavirathne was injured and later admitted to the Pelmadulla Base Hos- Mr Saslaian denied this request, too. pital. According to Mr Saslaian, the individuals had stated that the information re- When CMEV spoke to Ratnapura Senior Superintendent of Police, Palitha Fer- quested was required for security purposes. He further stated that the infor- nando, he said that he received a verbal complaint about this incident from the mation had already been made available to the Police, and that the Army and United National Party (UNP) headquarters “Sirikotha” operations unit. Offi- the Navy are not entitled to receive it unless the Election Commissioner grants cer-in-Charge L.P.K. Rajamanthri in Kahawatta Police Station stated that the written permission. situation was now under control and that two suspects have been arrested. In- vestigations are underway. CMEV states that it is incongruous for the Army and Navy to request for information for “security purposes”. There has been no public statement by any of the The incident has been confirmed by Rathnapura District Election Operation officials involved that the Army and Navy have been requested to support the Unit officer in charge K.T.M.P.D Thilakaratne. He also said that he was following Police to provide security on Election Day. 25 1st January - attack on UNP office in Beliatta – Hambantota Gnanasekaram was on duty in the Newburg area when he was attacked by a group of unidentified people who arrived in three vans. They accused him of not An attack on United National Party (UNP) Beliatta electorate organizer attending meetings by United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Uva PC Minis- W.B.Wimal Jayasiri’s house at about 6.45pm yesterday (01st), was reported to ter Senthil Thondaman and beat him, stealing valuable documents and personal CMEV. According to Mr. Jayasiri, a group of six people arrived in motorcycles belongings such as his phone and gold necklace. In the police complaint filed while he was at a meeting with three (03) UNP supporters at the above loca- at Ella Police Station (222/5) Mr. Gnanasekaram, said that 35 voting cards were tion. Four (04) armed individuals with T56s fired shots into the sky, removed stolen along with Rs 40,000. According to P.G. Gunawati, Post Master of Ella campaign decorations in the vicinity, entered the house and damaged furniture, Post Office, the victim Periyasami was hospitalised. destroyed important documents and assaulted his wife A.M.P Priyanka, whose forehead was injured as a result. Four motorcycles parked in their residence 3rd January - clash between Puttalam UC Chairman K.A. Bais, his supporters and were also damaged. members of Puttalam Public Awareness Forum.

According to Mr.Jayasiri, they had threatened him and his family saying “Meh A dispute between members of the Puttalam Public Awareness Forum (PPAF) dewana wathawata kiyanne umbalata aye kiyanena. Umbala okkomala marana- and supporters of Urban Council Chairman K.A. Bais at around noon on 3rd wa, 8 wenidata kohomath maranawa itakalin marun noka hitapan.” January was reported to CMEV. Police had called both parties to settle the dispute on January 3rd and the clash occurred when both had left the police. PPFA Furthermore he reported to CMEV that another complaint was previously made members had been attacked but no serious injury was reported. This second to the Beliatta Police Station about a similar assault and threat (on December incident was also filed as a complaint by both parties EIB /1/15 and EIB / 2/ 15 29th) on him (CIB (2) 347/446).CMEV contacted Beliatta Police officer in This case is presently before Puttalam Magistrates’ Court charge Mr. Wijerathne who confirmed that a complaint was filed about the previous incident. He added that two suspects were arrested in connection with the The previous day (2nd January) there was an incident at about 7.20 pm in the incident and that further investigations are underway. He directed any further evening when members of PPAF had been holding a small informative gather- inquiries about the incident to the Police media spokesman and refused to give ing at the Puttalama Muslim Mosque to educate women in that area about the the complaint number. importance of voting. Supporters of K.A. Bais arrived at the gathering and asked the PPAF members to take the meeting elsewhere and to not hold it near the CMEV spoke to Hambantota District election operation unit who confirmed mosque. One person received minor injuries during this dispute while several the receipt of the complaint on 01st January at about 8.30pm, and added that others were assaulted. Supporters of PPFA filed a complaint at Puttalam Police they visited the location at about 9.00pm. Station CIBI 197/90.

Mr. Jayasiri’s wife identified the persons to be ‘Karambakatiye Hichchi Malli’ The CMEV monitor who had gone to the police to verify the incident was in- and ‘Dammulle Gedara Sudda’. She also says that they were the same two people formed by supporters of UC Chairman Bais not to take any pictures or videos of involved in the assault on the 29th. the discussion between the two parties.

3rd January - attack and assault on postman in Badulla January 3rd - shots fired at NDF party office in Polonnaruwa

CMEV received a report of an assault in Badulla. A postman named Periyasami CMEV received a complaint about a shooting at a New Democratic Front 26 (NDF) party office in Polonnaruwa at about 6.30 pm. According to an eye-wit- Rights Documentation Centre. ness, about 50 armed individuals with T56 guns arrived in about 10 Defenders and attacked the office. Damages included destruction of cut-outs and damage All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org to a motorcycle and lorry that were parked in the vicinity. The eye witness also suspects the identities of two of the assailants to be United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Dimbulagala Pradeshya Sabha members Dammika Nishantha and Ananda Wijeyaraja.

Former United National Party (UNP) Pradeshya Sabha member S.A. Janaka Sa- marasinghe who was at the office at the time was attacked with a glass bottle Dr. P. Saravanamuttu by one of the assailants and hospitalised at the Polonnaruwa Base Hospital as a Co – Convenor result of the severe injury to his head.

Three complaints were filed at the Aralaganwila Police Station namely EIB 13/2015 (complaint filed by H.M. U. Alahakoon), EIB 14/2015 (filed by R.M. W. G.Podibanda) and EIB 15/2015 (filed by D.M. K.P. Dissanyake).

2nd January - shooting at North Western PC member Lakshman Wendaruwa’s residence in Kurunegala

CMEV received a report of a shooting at the residence of UPFA North Western Provincial Council Lakshman Wendaruwa at about 11.45 pm on 2nd December. Two men who arrived in a jeep (plate number unknown) shot Samarakoonge Abeykoon, driver of Mr. Wendaruwa. At the time, Mr.Wenadaruwa was out at a meeting. The driver, who had heard a vehicle outside the gate, had gone out to open the gate when he was shot. He was taken to the Kuruenegala General Hospital and has undergone minor surgery for his injuries.

CMEV notes that the shooting took place just hours after Mr. Wendaruwa announced his decision to support Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena at the Presidential Election.

27 response from Trincomalee Police Station.

Meanwhile, the CMEV monitor who was at Trincomalee Police Station soon after the assault said that the two suspects who were arrested by Trincomalee Police in connection with the assault were released after Deputy Minister Punchinilame th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. arrived at the Police Station. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org CMEV is alarmed that supporters of politicians feel they can assault public of-

ficials carrying out their official tasks in connection with the forthcoming Pres- Presidential Election 2015 idential election and be released without due process being followed. CMEV urges the authorities including the Police to take all necessary steps within their purview to prevent violence and hold perpetrators of violence to account. Media Communiqué 12 CMEV also urges candidates and political parties to ensure that their supporters and offices operate within the framework provided for elections. On 5th January 2015 at 0200 hrs CMEV is seriously concerned about an assault on two election officers al- CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the legedly by supporters of Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Susantha Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition against Political Violence as an Punchinilame in Trincomalee at 8.30 pm on 4 January. The incident occurred in independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election front of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) party office in Mattakkalli related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Junction, Trincomalee. Rights Documentation Centre. When the CMEV monitor made inquiries with the Deputy Election Commis- All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org sioner in the area, Sajith Welgama, he informed CMEV that he was on his way from Mahadivulwewa after shutting down an unauthorised UPFA party office. He had ordered his colleagues to remove all types of election material such as cut outs and posters of President Rajapaksa which were put up inside the Morawewa Buddhist Temple premises. When he arrived at the UPFA party office in Mattak- kalli, there was a movie in favour of Mahinda Rajapaksa being shown to the public in front of that office. Subsequently he had requested that the movie not be displayed outside the office and to display it inside the office. It was at this time Dr. P. Saravanamuttu when the supporters of Deputy Minister Punchinilame assaulted two election Co – Convenor officers who had accompanied Mr. Welgama. There was also a power cut when this attack had taken place.

When CMEV contacted the Election Commissioner’s office in Trincomalee regarding this incident, they refused to give further details as the investigations were ongoing but confirmed that the incident was true. CMEV had a similar 28 paramount that officials take all necessary steps to ensure that election laws are respected and the integrity of the electoral process upheld. Furthermore, CMEV raised in communiqué 12 the assault of two election officials in Trincomalee by UPFA supporters and the subsequent role played by a Deputy Minister to release the perpetrators. Such actions must be condemned and authorities must take all th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. steps to uphold law and order and hold perpetrators to account. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org 5th January – UPFA campaign organiser Mr. Arumugam Chandrakumar knifed in

Kopai, Jaffna Presidential Election 2015 CMEV received a complaint that UPFA Organiser Mr. Arumugam Chandraku- Media Communiqué 13 mar (38 yrs) was knifed by two unknown individuals near the Navalar School in Kopai. Mr. Chandrakumar received knife wounds in the back and arm at On 6th January 2015 approximately 9.20 pm on the 5th of January. According to the OIC of Kopai The Presidential Election campaign ended at midnight with several major inci- Police, Mr. I.P. Jayakodi, he was taken immediately to Kopai Hospital and sub- dents reported. At the end of campaigning, CMEV documented a total of 420 sequently transferred to the Jaffna Teaching Hospital at 10.05 pm for surgery. incidents, with 237 major incidents and 183 minor incidents. The highest num- Hospital staff stated that they would not comment on Mr. Chandrakumar’s sta- ber of major incidents were reported from Jaffna District with 22 incidents fol- tus until the surgery was completed. lowed from Badulla District with 19 incidents, 18 incidents from Kurunegala District and 17 incidents from Kandy District. CMEV noted 26 incidents of fire 5th January - three injured in shooting in Kahawatta Ratnapura arm use during this period and 3 separate incidents where petrol bombs were used with two resulting in threat and intimidation of residents. CMEV also not- CMEV received a complaint regarding a shooting that took place in Kahawatta, ed 132 instances of misuse of state resources for electioneering. Ratnapura at about 2 am in the morning on January 5th. United National Par- ty (UNP) supporters, preparing the grounds for a meeting to be addressed by The final day of campaigning commenced with a shooting incident which left the Common Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena, were shot at by an one UNP supporter critically injured. There were also incidents of threats and unidentified group of people. According to Police OIC L.P.K. Rajamanthri, the intimidation reported including the intimidation of two human rights defenders three injured persons, D.I.W. Karunadasa Ranasinghe, H. Hussain Dulshan and in Negombo. The last day of campaigning also witnessed a clash between UPFA Shantha Dodangoda received treatment at the Ratnapura Hospital. CMEV was and UNP supporters resulting in 3 persons being hospitalised, state resources informed that investigations are underway. Ratnapura Hospital Police officials being used by the UPFA for electioneering, and reports of false ballot papers confirmed that Shantha Dodangoda is critically injured (injuries to his chest) being circulated in parts of Sri Lanka, an issue raised by CMEV with the Com- and is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit. A police commissioner of Elections. plaint was made by Mr. T.M. Upali, a UNP Pradeshya Sabha member.

Several court orders were issued to arrest perpetrators of violence and to halt The Pelmadulla Magistrates Court issued an arrest warrant for Deputy Min- programmes which were biased towards one candidate. CMEV welcomes these ister of Power & Energy, Premalal Jayasekera, Minister Nilantha Jayakodi and court orders and urges the authorities to implement these without delay. It is Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Vajira Dharshana de Silva. 29 5th January, Misleading fake ballot papers distributed in several Districts CMEV also welcomes information received of an arrest made in the Hatton area (alleged perpetrator DS Princes, van number 56-4918 as per the Hatton police CMEV received information regarding the distribution of false and mislead- station) in relation to this unlawful distribution. It commenced on the 31st of ing ballot papers(a photo of this ballot paper is attached) depicting erroneous December 2014 and has been halted in the Bibile area upon the intervention of symbols for the Common Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena and the the Commissioner of Elections. United Socialist Party Candidate Sirithunga Jayasuriya within the Puttalam (Madurankulama and Arachchikattuwa), Kandy (Kundasale and Kandy Town), 5th January – clash between supporters of UNP and UPFA at Rambukkana, Keg- Batticaloa (Kalkuda) Anuradhapura (Kekirawa, Kalawewa, Anuradhapura West alle and Horowupothana), Badulla (Haputale), NuwaraEliya (Hatton), Monaragala (Bibile) and Trincomalee Districts. The fake ballot paper depicts a trishaw for CMEV received a report regarding a clash between supporters of the UNP and Maithripala Sirisena (as opposed to the correct symbol of a swan) and an ele- UPFA in front of the Rambukkana Train Station. Three persons supporting the phant for Sirithunga Jayasuriya (as opposed to the correct symbol of a trishaw), UNP were injured as a result of this clash and admitted to Rambukkana Hos- while the symbols of the remaining candidates including the incumbent presi- pital. Head injuries were sustained by Mr. Priyantha Pradeep and Mr. Sandun dent remained error free. Udaya, while Mr. Chanaka Ruwan suffered a neck injury. All three patients were subsequently transferred to Kegalle Hospital. CMEV was informed by the OIC CMEV, via its field monitor, has obtained a copy of the said misleading ballot Kegalle Police, Mr. Bandara Dekandawela and the hospital staff, that none of the paper at 1.30pm on the 5th of January from the 96th Junction area in Thissapu- injured were in critical condition. ra, Muttur, Trincomalee District, allegedly distributed by supporters of UPFA Thambalagamuwa Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman ChampikaBandara. The CMEV 4th January, human rights activist Brito Fernando and Prasanga Fernando intim- Eastern Province Coordinator subsequently reported the incident to IP Sene- idated in Negombo viratne, OIC of the Thambalagamuwa Police Station who directed two police officers to the location. A complaint on the incident, bearing the number EIB CMEV received a complaint with regard to an incident which took place in 71/08 was also subsequently filed by the CMEV monitor. Periyamulla, Negombo on the 4th of January. Human rights activist Mr. Brito Fernando along with his family returning home from an outing on the 4th of In Aarachchikattuwa, Halawatha, the said fake ballot papers were distributed January discovered a plastic bag in which a severed head of a dog was hung on on the 4th of January. According to North Western UNP Provincial Councillor his gate. Fellow Right to Life staff member Prasanga Fernando also reported that Sisira Kumara, the ballots were allegedly distributed by Minister Neomal Pere- he was subjected to the same treatment at his home. ra’s supporter Jude and ten others. They were also distributed at a public street drama performed by UPFA supporters. CMEV was informed by the police of a complaint filed at the Negombo police number CIB 2/33 on January 5th. The victims believe that the possible reasons CMEV is concerned by these incidents, which are a violation of election laws for the intimidation could be related to the commemoration of the disappeared, and are likely to confuse the public during the last few days leading up to polling which was organised and carried out by the Right to Life organisation on the day. CMEV has also raised the issue with the Commissioner of Elections urging 27th of October 2014. Subsequent to this ceremony, posters with the faces of immediate remedial action to ensure that the integrity of the election is not un- Right to Life staff members and other human rights activists were found all dermined by such actions. around the city of Negombo. The posters were captioned “Makara Raakshayo Athurudahan Wuuwan Vikunagena Kai.” A police complaint was lodged at the 30 Seeduwa Police related to this. Later that day the house of Brito Fernando was stoned. According to the two victims, the group responsible for this latest incident is also responsible for the posters and the stoning of their houses, which are attempts to intimidate them.

th CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. Presidential Election 2015 All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org Media Communiqué 14

On 7th January 2015 Since the completion of campaigning, CMEV received reports of several major incidents involving assault, threat and intimidation, damage to property, and misuse of state resources. All incidents reported to CMEV are instances where opposition party members and supporters were attacked, threatened and property was damaged. Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Co – Convenor CMEV is concerned at the scale of violence less than two days before the com- mencement of polls. Threat and intimidation and the use of firearms are major incidents that can, if not addressed, create fear among the public and impact voter turnout. CMEV urges the police to take immediate steps to investigate these incidents and to hold to account perpetrators. Quick action in this regard can provide confidence among voters that perpetrators of violence will be held to account, thereby addressing the culture of impunity. It also provides a clear message that violence of any nature is unacceptable during elections in Sri Lanka.

CMEV has also received reports of several instances of continued electioneering by UPFA ministers, members and supporters despite the campaign period ending at midnight on 5 January. In some instances electioneering was done in the guise of providing assistance. CMEV received reports of such incidents from Eppawala, Matale, Matara, Nawalapitiya, Ambalanthota, Kurunegala, Wella- waya, Batticaloa, Raththota, Jaffna, Akkaraipattu and Colombo and raised this issue with the Commissioner of Elections. 31 Major post - campaign incidents: cording to the complaint, the attack was caused as the three victims had removed posters of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. No police complaint was made. 6th January – Wife of UNP member beaten by UPFA Mahiyangana Lead Organiser in Mahiyangana, Badulla CMEV also notes incidents of threat & intimidation and assault, which occurred on the last day of campaigning: CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident where the wife of UNP member Ruwan Arumapperuma was beaten and kicked by UPFA Mahiyangana Lead 5th January – UNP member attacked in Chillaw, Puttlam Organiser and Uva Provincial Council Agricultural Minister Anura Vidanag- amage. According to the reports, Minister Vidanagamage himself had gone with CMEV received a complaint pertaining to an incident where Mr. Vajira Manoj, UPFA supporters with the plan to confront Mr. Ruwan Arumapperuma of the a member of the United National Party, was attacked on 5th of January and UNP, but instead met his wife, and kicked her when she stated that she did not subsequently hospitalised at Chillaw Hospital. CMEV was informed by the know of her husband’s whereabouts. hospital police that in his statement, Mr. Manoj states that he was attacked by the driver of the UPFA Arachchikattuwa Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman, near the Subsequently UPFA supporters visited Mr. Arumapperuma’s wife and threat- Arachchikattuwa market. The perpetrator was identified as Mr. Dinesh Dham- ened harm to both of them. She was told that her husband had to visit Minis- mika. Mr. Manoj’s both arms were badly hurt in the incident. The wife of the ter Vidanagamage and apologise for supporting the UNP, and vow to work for injured, Mrs. Nirmala, made a statement to the Police under the number 362/69, President Mahinda Rajapaksa. CMEV is following up on the nature of injuries stating that Dinesh Dhammika had threatened both Mr. Manoj and his wife received. Police investigations presently underway. approximately 2 days before the incident, stating that Mr. Manoj will require a wheelchair if he is to continue supporting the Common Presidential Candidate 6th January – Shooting in Bammanna, Kurunegala damages houses of UNP sup- Maithripala Sirisena. porters 5th January - Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP) leader Mr. Chandrakanth CMEV received a complaint regarding a shooting by unidentified persons, which threatens NDF Office in Valaichchenai, Batticaloa took place on the 6th of January at Bammanna, in the Kurunegala District. Ac- cording to the complaint, the houses of UNP member Mr. Samantha Padmasiri CMEV received a report where TMVP leader Mr. Chandrakanth, also known and supporter Mohamed Ismail Mohamed Distham were shot at after stones as “Pillayan” threatened the people at a NDF office situated at Kalaivani Road, were thrown during the early hours on the 6th of January resulting in damage to Karuvakkeni, in Valaichchenai, Batticaloa. According to reports, he has also walls and windows. Both victims have lodged complaints at the Pannala Police threatened to murder Mr. P. Sulakshan of the NDF. CMEV was informed that station under the entry numbers EIB 105/41 for Mr. Padmasiri and EIB 105/42 Pillayan had with him a pistol at the time of making the threats. Two hours after for Mr. Mohamed Distham. the threat, Mr. Sulakshan met with Mr. Kaandeepan, a supporter of Pillayan, to inquire why he was being threatened. During this meeting, Mr. Kaandeepan’s 6th January – Former Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Puligal (TMVP) members attacked mother has assaulted Mr. Sulakshan with a broom, and chased him away from by TMVP supporters in Batticaloa the premises. Subsequently Mr. Sulakshan lodged a complaint at the Police under the entry number CIB 376/66, stating that he was threatened by Pillayan and CMEV received a complaint regarding former TMPV members Mr. Mayura, assaulted by Mr. Kandeepan’s mother. CMEV was informed by Valaichchenai Mr. Sanjaya and Mr. Palkudi being attacked by current TMPV supporters. Ac- Police that no entry was made by Mr.Sulakshan regarding a murder threat but 32 an entry was made regarding him being struck with a broom by Mr. Kandeepan’s mother. However, Mr. Sulakshan confirmed with CMEV that his complaint to the Valaichchenai Police contained both the murder threat and the assault.

CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free th Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

Rights Documentation Centre. Presidential Election 2015 All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org Media Communiqué 15

On 7th January The day prior to polling witnessed the first fatality of the Presidential Election of 2015. Mr Shantha Dodagangoda, who was critically injured in a shooting incident at Kahawatte, Ratnapura on the morning of Monday 5th January, died Dr. P. Saravanamuttu at 3.05 pm at Ratnapura Hospital. Although the Pelmadulla Magistrates Court Co – Convenor issued an arrest warrant for Deputy Minister of Power & Energy, Premalal Jayasekera, Minister Nilantha Jayakodi and Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Vajira Dharshana de Silva on 5th January, no arrests had taken place as of the 7th.

CMEV is extremely concerned by the rise in election-related violence and violations a day prior to polls including a death threat to a CMEV monitor by a Pradeshiya Sabha Minister and continuous death threats faced by human rights defenders (HRDs). These violations demonstrate an inability among officials within the present system to take necessary steps to address the culture of impunity. CMEV urges the authorities to take all steps to ensure the integrity of the poll.

CMEV received two reports of attempts to pay for identification documents from two different districts. In Akkaraichennai, Muttur in Trincomlee District, CMEV received a complaint stating that National Identity Cards and Drivers Li- censes, have been collected in exchange for approximately Rs. 1000, by unknown persons. CMEV was informed by TNA Northern Provincial Council member Mr. Janadharan that he suspects UPFA supporters are involved in this incident. 33 In Beruwela, Kalutara District, a CMEV monitor witnessed an incident where not supporting President Mahinda Rajapaksa, and also because of his involve- a UPFA supporter and former Organiser of the Urban Council, Mr. Mohamed ment in election monitoring. Marjan, handed out Rs. 5000 each in exchange for National Identity Cards. 7th January – Military officials in possession of ballot box and ballot papers in After the close of the campaign, CMEV has received a number of reports of the Upparu, Muttur, Trincomalee District distribution of campaign material and other propaganda activities. A poster of President Mahinda Rajapaksa had been given out with the “Tharuni” newspaper CMEV received reports in the morning of navy officials at the Koganna Navy on the 7th of January at Bibile. Complaints have also been received regarding an Camp in Upparu, Kinniya, Trincomalee being in possession of a ballot box and article signed by Minister Nimal Siripala Silva with content against Common ballot papers. CMEV has notified the Commissioner of Elections regarding this Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena, being distributed by supporters of matter. the Minister at Lower Street in Badulla at approximately 4.45 pm on the 7th of January. Copies of “Litha” (charts of auspicious times) with the picture of Pres- CMEV also previously communicated to the Commissioner of Elections and the ident Rajapaksa, have been distributed in the Wellawaya area by supporters of Assistant Commissioner for Trincomalee District that approximately 100 ballot the Wellawaya Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Mr. Rohana Wanniarachchi. boxes were being filled at approximately 1.00 pm by two high level naval officers at the Sober Island Resort, Trincomalee, which can only be accessed via boats Another area of concern has been attempts to influence voters through misin- departing from the Trincomalee Naval Base. The Assistant Commissioner sub- formation circulated to confuse and discourage voters. CMEV was informed sequently informed CMEV at 4.00 pm that he had sent personnel to the Sober of a specific handbill that was circulated in Kilinochchi on the 6th of January. Island Resort to check on the allegation and found it to be false. According to the complaint, the handbill discouraged voters from casting their vote, with content against Common Presidential Candidate Maithirpala Sirisena 7th January – Ballot papers and a ballot box held by Navy in the Koganna Camp, and President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The handbill was printed under the name of Kinniya, Trincomalee District the ‘Independent Group of the Tamil National Alliance’. The TNA has denied involvement with the issuing of such a statement. CMEV was informed of an incident where the Sri Lanka Navy was allegedly in possession of a ballot box and ballot papers, which was reportedly being kept at CMEV wishes to reiterate its concern about the presence of the military adverse- the Koganna camp, in Upparu, Kinniya, under the protection of senior navy of- ly impacting voter turnout especially in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. ficials. This incident too was reported by CMEV to the Election Commissioner. Throughout the 6th and 7th of January, CMEV has received many expressions of concern and allegations of the intimidatory presence of the military and there- 7th January – Text message circulated in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu fore raises this issue yet again as one of serious concern. CMEV received complaints regarding a text message, which was circulated in Incidents reported on 7th January Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu from a blocked number, asking the recipients to vote 7th January – Death threat to CMEV monitor in Kalaweva, Anuradhapura District for President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

CMEV Monitor R.S.S. Doragamuwa received a phone call from UPFA Pradeshi- 7th January – Message to Nalanda College Old Boys’ Association ya Sabha Minister Nimalsiri who threatened to break his arms, legs, and to murder him on the 9th of January. The threat was attributed to the CMEV monitor An email sent from President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the 7th of January to the 34 Old Boys’ Association of Nalanda College was forwarded to CMEV. The mes- 7th January – Bribery at Dehiaththakandiya, Ampara District. sage focused on the shared Nalanda connection between President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the recipients in a general appeal to alumni to fight for the securi- CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident where a relative of Parlia- ty of the nation, by supporting President Rajapaksa at the Presidential Election. mentarian Mrs. Sriyani Wijewickrama distributed money in exchange for the promise that citizens would vote for President Mahinda Rajapaksa. According 7th January – Blockage on road leading to polling centre to the complaint, the money was distributed to a number of people at No. 31, Gurugammanaya, Dehiaththakandiya. When CMEV contacted ASP Mr. Chan- CMEV received a report of a road blockage impeding accesss to a polling centre, drapala regarding the incident, he stated that it was a meeting for officials of the in Baddegama in the Galle District. The polling centre, Mabotuwana Nawala polling centre, and no bribery had taken place. Kanishta Vidyalya (polling centre No 25) is currently not accessible by a vehicle due to the presence of large stones left on the road leading to the centre by the Vanduramba Pradeshiya Sabha, with the explanation that it is in the process of 7th January – A market declared open in Gampola, in the Kandy District tarring the road. An alternate route to the polling centre would take more time. The stones are effectively blocking access by polling centre officials and moni- A complaint has been received by CMEV regarding an opening of a public tors. market near the New Road, in Gampola. According to the complaint, Prime Minister Dimu Jayaratne, along with his son, Parliament Minister Anuradha 7th January – Fake ballot papers distributed in Arasadithivu, Kokkadicholai, in Jayaratne were present and declared the market open. During the campaign the Batticaloa District period CMEV highlighted the use of development projects to carry out election propaganda, and it is an issue of concern that this is continuing even after the CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident where supporters of Mr. campaign period has ended. Vinayagamoorthy Muralitharan, better known as Karuna Amman, distributed fake ballot papers, where Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena’s symbol 7th January – Gathering of information for state assistance in Handapanagala, had been changed from a Swan to a Three Wheeler, on the 7th of January. Wellawaya, Monaragala District

7th January – Message against Common Presidential Candidate Maithripala Siris- CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident in Handapanagala, Wellawaya ena circulated via SMS in Kattankudy, Batticaloa , Monaragala District on the 7th of January, 2014 where Mr. Sepala, a Samurdhi Officer had been distributing forms which were issued by the Divi Neguma De- CMEV received a report regarding the circulation of a text message with content partment of the Ministry of Economic Development, to Three Wheeler owners going against Common Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena, being sent of the Handapanagala area. The Samurdhi Officer had reportedly stated that the and circulated by number 0768385917, in Kattankudy, Batticaloa. According to information was required by the Divi Neguma department of the Ministry of reports, a text message stating that Common Presidential Candidate Maithri- Economic Development, under the Budget of 2015, proposed by President Ma- pala Sirisena was Deputy Defense Minister when 50,000 Tamils were killed in hinda Rajapaksa, so as to provide life insurance and a pension scheme for three 2009, and therefore advising the public not to vote for him, was circulated. wheel drivers in the future. CMEV is currently attempting to obtain a copy of the distributed form.

35 7th January – Kiribath (Milk Rice) Dansala to be held on the 8th of January oppo- 6th January – UNP Supporter’s house attacked in Ettampitiya, Badulla District site a polling centre in Bibile, in the Monaragala District CMEV received a complaint regarding an attack on the house of a UNP support- CMEV received a complaint regarding a Kiribath Dansala which is scheduled er, Mr. V. Weerasinghe. According to the complaint, the house, which is situated to take place on the morning of the Presidential Election, opposite the Badul- in Ettampitiya, was attacked during the early hours on the 6th of January, dam- lagammana Vidyalaya (polling centre No17) in Bibile, a polling centre in the aging the windows, walls and the roof of the house. According to the victim, the District of Monaragala. CMEV was informed that the Bibile Pradeshiya Sabha suspects are alleged to be employees working under Minister Dilan Perera at the Minister Buddhika Seneviratne, has been the main organiser of this Dansala Foreign Employment Bureau. A complaint has been lodged at Ettampitiya Police which is to take place at the Cooperative Society Building, opposite the polling Station. centre. 6th January – Family member of UNP supporter attacked in Mahiyanganya, 7th January – No security at polling centre in Linganagar, in the Trincomalee Dis- Moneragala District trict. A complaint was received by CMEV regarding an incident of threat and intim- The CMEV monitor in the Trincomalee District reported that at Konalingam idation of a UNP supporter, Mr. Janaka Abeyratne, on the 6th of January at ap- Maha Vidyalaya (polling centre 31) apart from the Senior Presiding Officer and proximately 6.00 pm when a mob came in search of him. Mr. Abeyratne alleged two Junior Presiding Officers, there were no Police or any form of security avail- that the attackers had been unable to find him but instead found his father, Mr. able for the polling centre. The CMEV monitor noted a small gathering of un- D.M. Abeyratne. The seniour Mr Abeyratne claims that the mob included UPFA identified persons within 50 meters of the polling centre. Mahiyangana Lead Organiser and Uva Provincial Council Agricultural Minister Anura Vidanagamage along with Parliament member Mr. Thenuka Vidanagam- Several major incidents were reported from 6th of January including attacks on age and UPFA supporters who had allegedly threatened to kill his son and had 6th January – UNP supporter’s business place attacked in Hali Ela, Badulla struck him in the abdomen with a gun. When speaking to CMEV, the victim stated that he had explained the situation in detail to the OIC of the Mahiyan- CMEV received a complaint with regard to an incident where the business place ganaya Police Mr. C.I. Wickremasinghe. However, speaking to CMEV, the OIC of a UNP supporter, Mr. Muthubandara was attacked on the 6th of January, at stated that the victim had informed the Police that he did not know who the Hali Ela, Badulla. According to the victim, the perpetrators had attacked “Anu- attackers were. No complaint has been lodged with the Police. radha Hotel” twice. Following the first attack, he had seen the attackers leaving the premises in a white Defender vehicle. The second attack was approximately 30 minutes after the first. The victim had identified the vehicle number plate as 6th January – House of Beliatta UNP Communications Secretary attacked in Beli- WP KB – 6570. The attackers had struck the victim with an iron pole and fired atta, in the Hambantota District shots. According to Mr. Muthubandara, the perpetrators are supporters of Min- ister Dilan Perera. He received treatment at the Ettampitiya Hospital. A com- CMEV received a complaint pertaining to an incident where the house of the plaint was lodged at the Ettampitiya Police Station under the complaint number Secretary of the Beliatta UNP Communications Department, Mr. S.H. Kamal- EIB 48/16. siri, was attacked on the 6th of January at approximately 11.45 pm. According to the complaint, shots had been fired and had hit the walls, as well as a three- wheeler, which was parked on the premises. Mr. Kamalsiri had made a phone 36 call to the 119 emergency hotline when the incident took place, to which they responded by advising them to stay indoors until help was sent. The Police had arrived 20 minutes later but had been unable to apprehend or identify the attackers. A complaint was lodged at the Police under the entry number EIB 224/147.

On the 6th of January, UPFA supporters were seen openly holding political meetings in the Batticaloa District, including a meeting held at 4.30pm at the Pentacostal Church located on the Polonnaruwa-Batticaloa Road, where armed military personnel and vehicles were visibly in attendance.

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Co – Convenor

37 38 Postal Vote Monitoring ______Presidential Election - 2015

39 la Pradeshiya Sabha (UPFA), at around 9.10 am. According to a CMEV monitor, Mr. Gunawardana’s driver had assaulted Mr. Hemantha following a heated argument between Mr. Hemantha and Mr. Gunawardana. Mr. Hemantha has been taken to Gomarankadawala Rural Hospital with minor head injuries.

th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Voting re- commenced at 10.00 am after the Assistant Returning Officer of the Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. Trincomalee District arrived at the scene. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

Presidential Election 2015 Sri Lanka Army 68th Battalion Headquarters – Pudukuduirippu, Mullativu Dis- trict. Postal Voting Communiqué 1 A CMEV mobile monitor reported that the designated place for voting within 23rd December 2014 Colombo, Sri Lanka this polling station does not allow for a secret vote as the Certifying Officer of Postal voting for the Presidential Election scheduled for 8th January 2015 com- the polling centre has a clear view of each ballot that is being marked. CMEV menced this morning at 7.30 am. A total of 541,831 voters were eligible to cast was informed that 301 voters were registered to vote at the said polling station at postal votes on the 23rd, 24th, 26th and 30th of December 2014. According the time the CMEV mobile monitor inspected the premises with 97 votes cast. to media reports of the 626,953 applications received for postal voters, nearly 85,000 (14%) applications were rejected. The CMEV monitor took up this issue with the Certifying officer Lt. Col. T.M.K.C Amarakoon who stated that they were unable to make alternative arrangements. President Mahinda Rajapaksa launched his election manifesto today (23rd) and CMEV has made a written complaint to the certifying officer in this regard. his speech was aired live by the Independent Television Network (ITN) and the Sri Lanka Broadcasting co-operation (SLBC) from 9.00 am onwards. Whilst the airing of this election activity is a violation of the Election Commissioner’s di- Special Task Force camp- 3rd Mile Post, Siyabalanduwa, Monaragala District. rectives on the use of state media and state resources, CMEV received several complaints of this speech being played loudly in government buildings which The CMEV monitor reported that at around 7.30 am. R.P Herath, Command- operate as polling stations for the postal vote. ing Officer of the camp informed him that voting was closed for the day after only about 5 votes were cast during the period the monitor was present. The CMEV received complaints that the telecast of the speech could be seen and /or Commanding Officer had further informed the CMEV monitor that the balance heard by voters en route to casting their postal votes in the Divisional Secretariat votes would be cast the next day. A total of 154 postal votes were registered at premises in Passara, Karachchi, Ambagamuwa, Ududumbara and Lunugala. this camp.

Divisional Secretariat – Gomarankadawala, Trincomalee District. When contacted by CMEV, the Assistant Elections Commissioner for the Monaragala District, stated that the said closure was contrary to the directions Postal voting was temporarily suspended due to a clash between M.K.D.S Gun- provided by his office and that they will investigate into the matter. awardana, MP (NDP), and Mr. Sadun Hemantha, a Member of Gomarankdawa- 40 Southern Provincial Council Building – Galle The monitor was permitted to enter the camp to monitor postal voting at about 9.45 a.m after CMEV informed the Assistant Election Commissioner, Gampa- The CMEV monitor reported that hand bills were being distributed in front of ha. the Southern Provincial Council Building in Galle. Chief Minister of the South- ern Provincial Council, Mr. Shan Wijayalal Silva was also among the group distributing handbills. S.L.T.B Depot – Uppuveli, Trincomalee District.

Six polling stations are located within the premises of the Southern Provincial A Jeep (registration number 30 – 0018) bearing a poster of President Mahinda Council building with a total of 284 postal voters registered to cast their vote. Rajapaksa was parked in front of the polling station within the premises of the depot. The CMEV polling station observer reported that the Jeep belonged to Labor Department Head office– Narahenpita R.M.G Vijitha Dharmasiri Depot Manager of the Uppuveli Depot.

The CMEV polling station observer for the Labor Department was not granted Furthermore a poster of President Mahinda Rajapaksa was prominently dis- access until 8.30 am to monitor the postal vote. The Certifying Officer Mr. Anu- played within the premises of the depot. ra Muthumanna, a Labor Commissioner refused to allow access until a specific letter addressed to him, was produced stating that the specific observer should S.L.T.B Depot – Gampola, Kandy District be given access. Following communications made with Assistant Election Com- missioner Colombo, the CMEV observer was granted access to monitor the Posters of President of Mahinda Rajapaksa were prominently displayed within polling station. CMEV notes that this incident took place despite the monitor the premises of the depot. The said posters have been present for at least two possessing a letter of authorization signed by the Commissioner of Elections weeks and no steps had been taken remove them. authorising him to enter and monitor a polling station.

It was further reported by the monitor that a group of people were distributing Headquarters of The Civil Security Department of Sri Lanka – Kilinochchi, handbills in front of the premises where the postal vote was being conducted. Kilinochchi District.

A CMEV mobile monitor reported that officers of the Civil Security Depart- Navy Camp – Welisara, Gampaha District ment (CSD) were collecting information from civilian workers attached to the CSD as they left the polling station. Information collected included name, NIC The CMEV monitor was not permitted to enter the premises of the Navy camp number and time of voting. by the security at the gate. The security informed our monitor that they were not aware of CMEV and therefore could not permit a representative of the organi- The CMEV monitor observed workers attached to the farms maintained by the sation to enter the camp. CSD being separated into groups based on their work location and the information being collected accordingly. Again CMEV notes that this incident took place despite the monitor possessing a letter of authorisation signed by the Commissioner of Elections authorising When contacted by CMEV Major Sagara Weerasinghe, the Certifying Officer him to enter and monitor a polling station. of the polling station, stated that such information was collected to ascertain 41 the details of persons who had cast their postal votes today in order to facilitate internal administration of the farms. Major Weerasinghe stated that they needed this information to arrange transportation for tomorrow and to prepare work rosters so persons who had not cast their vote could be released from work tomorrow. 24/2, 28th Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. This conduct is particularly problematic in light of the serious allegations made Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. against the CSD during the Northern Provincial Council election in September E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

2013. The Assistant Election Commissioner – Kilinochchi District is presently on location investigating the CMEV complaint. Presidential Election 2015 CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- Postal Voting Communiqué 2 dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human 23rd December 2014 Colombo, Sri Lanka Rights Documentation Centre. The Centre for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) monitored the first day of postal votes across Sri Lanka and at the end of the day reported 47 incidents All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org with 20 major incidents and 27 minor incidents. Major incidents include assault, threat and intimidation, misuse of state resources, incidents related to election officers and intimidatory presence. Minor incidents were all related to election offences.

Process of Applications

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu CMEV notes a total of 541,831 voters were eligible for postal voting on the 23rd, Co – Convenor 24th, 26th and 30th. CMEV noted several incidents on the day of the first postal vote raising concerns regarding the process used for registering postal voters that can impact the integrity of elections. At the outset, CMEV raises concerns with the applications for postal voting as the present practice entails the respec- tive head of department sending the applications forms of all within his/her department for postal voting. Any delays and/or discrepancies from this particular individual can lead to a significant population being unable to vote. CMEV has been informed that a large number of the near 85,000 rejected postal votes are attributable to the delay in the application. A particular case reported to CMEV was at the Puttalm Zonal Education Office where 140 applications were made and 30 rejected citing delays. CMEV is concerned with the present process that entails a heavy reliance on one individual that may lead to the disenfranchise- 42 ment of a significant number of citizens and calls for a review of the present 23 December 2014, Ceylon Electricity Board Head office - Sir Chittampalam A process. Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 02, Colombo District

CMEV is also informed of several votes being unaccounted for in the present A CMEV monitor was not allowed to enter the voting centre by the security of- process. In the Mahawa Deport, Kurunagala, 56 applications were made with ficer on duty at the entrance. The security officer had informed the monitor that 39 being received and 4 rejected. 13 votes were unaccounted for. Similarly in the there is no voting in the premises. Upon CMEV contacting authorities at the Mihintale Pradeshiya Sabha, Anuradhapura, 10 applications were made with 1 Ceylon Electricity Board, the CMEV observer was permitted access. received and 1 rejected. 8 votes were unaccounted. CMEV raised this issue with the relevant district election officers who were unable to provide a satisfactory 23 December 2014, Gangawata Korale Divisional Secretariat - Kandy, Kandy Dis- answer in terms of accounting for the missing votes and CMEV urges the Elec- trict tions Commissioner to take immediate steps to look into this matter. A complaint was filed by a CMEV monitor of a large poster of President Ma- Factors Impacting Franchise hinda Rajapaksa being displayed on the building near the polling station. This building belongs to the National Housing Development Authority and directly On the basis of incidents reported at the time of issuing this communiqué, faces the polling station at the Division Secretariat Office. CMEV is concerned with the role played by the military in some of the postal voting centres. Incidents reported below and in Communique 1 highlight inci- 23 December 2014, SLTB Depot, Vavuniya dents in Mullaitivu and Killinochchi districts that can impact the integrity of the vote. A CMEV monitor reported that posters of President Mahinda Rajapaksa were displayed within the SLTB Depot premises which is a polling station. CMEV is also informed of the low voter turnout today due to the bad weather in parts of Sri Lanka. Reports from the Eastern Province and Mannar district 23 December 2014, SLTB Depot Nawalapitiya, Kandy District indicate heavy rains and floods impacting voter turnout. If there is a continuation of the bad weather for the remainder of postal voting and possibly affecting CMEV was informed that at the above location, voters had to mark their ballot Election Day, CMEV urges the Elections Commissioner to take necessary steps and show it to the Senior Polling Officer before sealing it. CMEV contacted the to ensure that voters are not deprived of their right to franchise. Deputy Elections Commissioner – Kandy regarding this incident. The Depu- ty Elections Commissioner denied the allegation stating that his representative In addition to the broader issues raised above, several incidents from the first day was present at the said polling station and that no such incident took place. of postal votes are below- 23 December 2014, SLTB Depot Katharagama, Monaragala District 23 December 2014, Kurunegala South SLTB Bus Depot, Kurunegala District A CMEV mobile monitor reported that at the polling station mentioned above, CMEV was informed that a group of people wearing T shirts with the slogan polling agents (both UNP and UPFA) had an argument with the voters who had ‘Nil Balakaya’ were seen walking around at 10.45 am in the premises outside the arrived to cast their vote using the identification document issued by the SLTB polling centre. instead of their NICs. The UNP polling agents have said that voters can use the identification document issued by the SLTB while the UPFA agents argued that 43 the NIC is compulsory. Two police officers were called in to settle the dispute. was told that no buses had been released for such a purpose. Our monitor was also told that the manager of the depot was Mr Vijitha Dharmasiri who is a local 23 December 2014, Nittambuwa Divisional Secretariat, Gampaha District council member representing the UPFA.

It was reported to CMEV that Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardana with two 23 December 2014, Zonal Education Office – Kabithigollawa, Anuradhapura Dis- other persons had entered the above premises and made inquiries about the trict number of postal votes cast at the polling centre from the polling officer. The CMEV monitor assigned to this centre was not permitted to enter until 23 December 2014, District Hospital Mawathagama, Kurunegala District the District Election Commissioner informed the police officers at the entrance granting permission for the monitor to enter. The speech made by President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the launch of his election manifesto and aired on the Independent Television Network (ITN) was broad- 23 December, Zonal Educational office, Ambalangoda – Kalutara District cast on the first floor of the District Hospital Mawathagama when voting was taking place on the second floor of the same building. CMEV mobile monitor reported that a banner (1.5 x 2 feet) of President Ma- hinda Rajapaksa is prominently displayed within the premises of Ambalango- 23 December 2014, Gampola SLTB Depot da zonal educational office which is a polling station. The CMEV monitor who raised this issue with Mrs. S.E Chandrawathi, zonal education director, was The posters of President Mahinda Rajapaksa displayed on the walls in the vi- informed that it is the responsibility of the police to remove such banners and cinity of the above location which is a polling station have not been removed as that no action can be taken by the zonal education office. directed by the Election Commission. 23rd December, The 591st Battalion Headquarters of the Sinha regiment Sri Lanka 23 December 2014, Kirillavala Zonal Education Office, Gampaha District Army, Alampil – Mullativu District.

A CMEV reporter noted a 15 foot billboard of President Mahinda Rajapaksa A CMEV mobile monitor reported that the designated place for voting within fixed in the premises of the above location which is a polling station. this polling station is not secure as the Government officials have a clear view of each ballot that is being marked. The CMEV monitor has taken up this issue 23 December 2014, Civil Defence Zonal Office Trincomalee, Trincomalee District with the certifying officer and officers from the elections department.

It was reported by a CMEV monitor that two buses belonging to the Trincomalee The CMEV monitor had also made a written complaint to the representatives of depot provided transport for Civil Defence Officers to cast their vote at the Zonal the Elections commission. Upon inquiry the certifying officer had informed the Civil Defence Office (the registration of one bus is NA3647). These buses had CMEV monitor that the arrangements were made as he needed a clear view of promotional material of President Mahinda Rajapaksa displayed on the sides. the voter. Alternative arrangements were subsequently made to rectify the situa- When the CMEV monitor inquired from the depot about these two buses, he tion. However at this point 154 of the 391 registered votes had already been cast. 44 CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. 24/2, 28th Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

Presidential Election 2015

Postal Voting Communiqué 3

24th December 2014 Colombo, Sri Lanka Dr. P. Saravanamuttu The second day of postal voting continued with a few incidents reported. At Co – Convenor present 61 incidents have been reported with 27 major incidents and 34 minor incidents. Major incidents include assault, threat and intimidation, misuse of state resources, incidents related to election officers and the intimidating presence of party activists and supporters. Minor incidents relate to election offences.

The day commenced with a clash at Sirikotha, headquarters of the United Na- tional Party (UNP). CMEV was told that a group of about 1000 persons had protested in front of Sirikotha at about 10.45 in the morning, demanding information on the alleged secret pact between the Common Opposition Candidate Maithripala Sirisena and UNP leader Ranil Wickramasinghe. At the time of the protest, around 1500 people were at Sirikotha attending a workshop for teachers.

CMEV was informed by Mr. Ivan Silva, Assistant to Mr. Rajiv Senavirathne who is the Chief of Operation Room at Sirikotha, that the protest was organised by the National Freedom Front and backed by its leader Wimal Weerawansa. Ac- cording to Mr. Silva, persons suspected with ties to the NFF namely Mr. Jeewan- tha Jayathissa, Mr Mahinda Samarathunga, Mr. D.M. Senavirathene, Mr. Anura Atapattu, Dr. Wasantha Bandara, and the husband of UPFA Pradeshiya Sabha Member, Mrs. Priyanka Kothalawala were present during this protest. It was reported by an eye-witness that the above mentioned persons arrived at the scene

45 in vehicle number GI8272. A stage and meeting area that were in the process of being prepared for a rally CMEV was informed by Mr.Prasad Manju, Media Secretary to Mr. Weerawansa of the Common Opposition Candidate Maithripala Sirirsena was attacked by a that the protest was organised by Dr. Wasantha Bandara representing the Jathika group of people at 12.40 am on the 24th. CMEV was informed that around 8-10 Sanwidana Ekamuthwa. The anti-riot squad and officers from Mirihana Police persons were preparing the stage and surrounding area for a meeting that was Station were bought in to disperse the gathering and control the crowd. The fight to be held on the following morning (24th). There had also been more people between the two groups had resulted in damage to property including a Buddha around the playground and on the roads leading to it. Two jeeps and one van statue located in the premises. According to Dr. Bandara about seven or eight displaying posters of President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived and parked next to persons were taken to Colombo South Teaching Hospital in Kalubowila. a jeep belonging to the Wellampitiya Police Station. One armed individual got down from one of the vehicles and shot about 17 rounds from the firearm in Several other incidents were reported on the second day of postal voting- the direction of the stage and its roof. Sub Inspector of the Wellampitiya Police Station Mr. Tennakoon and nine other police officers along with the group of 24th December, Mullaitivu Regiment, Civil Security Department Vishwamadu, people who were preparing the stage had to run for cover. Mullaitivu District A CMEV monitor reported that people were unaware of how to vote and had The Manager of Y FM, Mr Sajith Nandana Rathnayake, who was at the location given their ballot papers to Mr. A. Sundaramurthy, ARO (Assistant Returning described the vehicles as one white van plated J.G. 7783 and two jeeps with un- Officer) to vote on their behalf. The CMEV monitor observed the ARO casting marked red plates and tinted windows. He also noted that the vehicles had soon three votes during this period. Lt Colonel J.P Ganegoda is the certifying officer thereafter fled the scene towards Dematagoda. Mr Prasanna Solangaarachchi, who was present during this period. The CMEV monitor reported that 477 had Kotikawatta–Mulleriyawa Pradeshiya Sabha Chiairmani informed CMEV that already cast their vote with 931 names being in the list. The CMEV monitor fur- the police officers at the location did not do anything to stop the incident. ther reported a general lack of awareness among voters in the area. CMEV was informed that further investigations were being carried out by the 24th December, Sri Lanka Army Camp, Puthukuduirrupu, Mullaitivu District Chief Inspector Amarabandu of the Wellampitiya Police Station. The CMEV monitor reported a discrepancy in the list of voters in the centre where 254 persons had registered to vote. A list with 367 names was with Mr. CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free P.D.L.D. Alwis, Second Commanding Officer, the certifying officer. Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election 24th December, Anamaduwa, Puttalam District related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human CMEV was informed that two newly opened election offices of the UNP in Adi- Rights Documentation Centre. gama and Palama Serukale were attacked around 9.30pm (23rd December). The CMEV monitor observed the destruction of election material, furniture and of- All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org fices. Mr. Range Bandara, MP informed CMEV that the office was opened the morning before and that the attack was carried out by group of supporters of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) North Western Provincial Councilor Mr Sanath Nishantha. Dr. P. Saravanamuttu 24th December, Kollannawa Umagiliya Playground, Colombo District Co – Convenor 46 Election Monitors

In preparation for monitoring the Presidential Election 2015, CMEV deployed 160 field coordinators based in polling divisions or electorates, while 25 field coordinators were deployed in the 25 administrative districts during the pre-elec- th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. tion period. All field monitors report daily to the main CMEV secretariat in Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. Colombo. CMEV officers stationed at the secretariat conduct further follow-up E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org investigations on all reports, contacting the relevant parties including witness-

es, health officials and police stations, and verifying the authenticity of claims. Additionally, over 4000 static observers will be stationed in polling stations on Presidential Election 2015: Election Day, similar to previous elections due to access approved by the Elec- tion Commissioner to CMEV and PAFFREL. Furthermore, arrangements are CMEV Interim Campaign Report made to deploy 50 mobile groups from Colombo to various locations across the country as necessary. The 200+field/district monitors will organise an equal About CMEV number of mobile visits to polling stations. In total, CMEV expects to cover 65- 70% of polling stations across the country. Centre for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and For the first time the Election Commissioner has granted permission to local the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan monitors to observe the count. CMEV has been given the responsibility for 30% organisation to monitor the incidents of election related violence. Currently, of the counting centres and will be deploying 66 observers accordingly. CMEV CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Cen- will deploy one observer for up to five rooms in which the count will be done. tre. CMEV monitors all national, provincial and local elections. Through years of experience, and utilising the latest in communications technology, CMEV has established an effective island-wide mechanism to speedily capture election Trends and Concerns related information and updates in Sri Lanka, and to verify and report these in a professional, unbiased and timely manner, supplying news to a number of • At the end of campaigning, CMEV documented 420 incidents of violence media organisations, both local and international. CMEV works to protect and (20th November 2014-5 January 2015), with 237 categorised as major in- strengthen the integrity of the electoral process and the democratic rights of the cidents and 183 as minor incidents. The highest number of major incidents peoples of Sri Lanka. were reported in the Jaffna District with 22 incidents followed by Badulla District with 19 incidents, Kurunegala 18 incidents and 17 incidents in the www.cmev.org and its linked social media sites https://www.facebook.com/elec- Kandy District. tionviolence and https://twitter.com/cmev, along with the WhatsApp messaging service (over +94 727772810) provide some of the most up-to-date, impartial • CMEV has recorded 26 incidents involving firearms and three incidents of and credible information on election violence and malpractice, as and when in- petrol bombings. cidents occur. • Targeting of election officials has been a key trend in previous elections 47 and this has continued in the 2015 Presidential Election. to the police. This coupled with the lack of due process with regards to suspects connected with election violence, has resulted in perceptions of • CMEV monitors were attacked and threatened in two incidents. police unwillingness and inability to take action.

• CMEV recorded 132 incidents of gross misuse of state resources for elec- • An increase in attacks against human rights defenders and artistes in the tion purposes. This has been a recurring trend in the campaigns of the last few days of the campaign. Women too have been targeted with a petrol incumbent. Although not for the first time, the intensity and degree of bomb attack against a female activist in Kattankudy. misuse of resources during this Presidential Election is unparalleled. • Increase of violence and intimidation of voters in the north. • Excessive use of state media by the incumbent and very limited airtime for opposition candidates. At the same time, given the availability of resourc- • The presence of armed forces impacting voter turnout, especially in the es, similar profile in respect of private media. North. CMEV has received information of public officials used in campaigning in the lead up to the elections. Several incidents in Jaffna were • A vast number of incidents of violence and flagrant violation of election reported on the last day of campaigns targeting both UPFA and opposition laws is attributed to the ruling party where local politicians including local actors. government members are involved. With exceptions in a few key incidents, most perpetrators have operated with impunity. • CMEV raised concerns with the process involved with postal voting including the application process and the situation created as a result of • The culture of impunity for flagrant violation of election laws has encour- incremental weather. CMEV has raised concerns in terms of reform in the aged continuation of such incidents. application process.

• A large number of incidents of attacks have targeted opposition party offic- • Two election rallies for the Common Opposition Candidate were attacked es and persons connected to said offices. with shots fired in Kolonnawa.

• Most suspects arrested for election violence related incidents have been • CMEV has raised concerns as to the situation faced by IDPs and their vot- released without following due process. Although CMEV notes a few court ing rights in the context of the recent floods and heavy rains in parts of Sri orders issued in recent days that provide for police action. Lanka. This is an issue where CMEV have written to the EC.

• Several government employees were used (sometimes under duress) for • CMEV noted several instances where false ballot papers were found in electioneering. Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Ampara, Monaragala, Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, An- uradhapura, Puttalam and Kandy. This too has been raised with the EC in • Ruling party politicians have been electioneering under the guise of pro- terms of its impact of confusing voters and possibly impacting the integrity viding relief to flood affected victims. of the franchise.

• CMEV documented police officers having attacked persons seeking voting rights. This has resulted in a situation where people are unable to complain 48 Significance of Presidential Polls 2015 Incidents according to electoral districts

- First time an incumbent president sought a third term. - An incumbent president has never been defeated at a presiden tial election. - The coalition against the incumbent was large and diverse - Second presidential election in the post war context

False information attributed to CPA

A survey that first appeared on a pro-incumbent social media site attributed its findings, falsely, to CPA. The post portrays a victory for the incumbent based on a survey conducted by CPA. Neither CPA nor CMEV, at any point of time, has conducted or released a survey of this nature. The content on the website is completely false and has no basis in the work or output of CPA or CMEV. (*Vanni electoral district includes Mullaitivu, Mannar, Vavuniya) For further information with regard to incident reports please refer to CMEV’s website: www.cmev.org

49 50 Pre Election Violations Table I Alleged Perpetrators of Pre-Election Offences by Area Date: [20/11/2014 - 08/01/2015]

UPFA-MR NDF-CC

AREA/PARTY TOTAL JSP FSP SLP SNF UPF PNF SEP USP ONF NSU PNG EOR DNM ELPP NSSP INDI 1 INDI 2 CMEV PA ELMSP CP NC POLICE JVP OWORS NFF DPF NDF UNP NUA MEP CWC SLFP DVJP LSSP UPFA UCPF EPDP SLMP ACMC JHU-CC JHU-MR ITAK-CC UNP- MR SLFP-CC SLMC-CC SLMC-MR Western Colombo 38 1 7 46 Gampaha 15 1 16 Kalutara 19 1 10 30 72 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Western) 72 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 17 0 0 92 Central Kandy 37 1 12 50 Matale 5 2 7 Nuwara Eliya 10 1 1 12 52 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Central) 53 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 0 0 69 North Western Kurunegala 29 1 4 34 Puttalam 12 1 13 41 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Nor-West) 41 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 47 North Central Anuradhapura 27 1 1 9 38 Polonnaruwa 31 2 5 1 18 57 58 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 Sub Total (Nor-Cen.) 58 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 27 0 0 95 Southern Galle 22 5 2 1 30 Hambantota 4 2 1 7 Matara 8 5 13 34 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 Sub Total (Southern) 34 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 7 0 0 50 Uva Badulla 29 3 32 Monaragala 20 3 23 49 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Uva) 49 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 55 Sabaragamuwa Ratnapura 15 1 1 9 26 Kegalle 12 2 14 27 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Sabara) 27 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 0 40 Northern Jaffna 21 11 8 40 Vanni 16 1 1 18 37 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Northern) 48 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 58 Eastern Batticaloa 35 1 2 38 Trincomalee 22 1 1 4 28 Digamadulla 24 1 4 1 2 32 81 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 Sub Total (Eastern) 82 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 8 0 0 98 451 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 13 0 4 0 0 13 0 0 0 GRAND TOTAL 464 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 105 0 0 604

51 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Pre Election Violations Table II

Alleged Pre-Election Offences by Party Date: [20/11/2014 - 08/01/2015]

Major Incidents Minor Incidents Remarks

Misuse of Damage Polling Cards Postal Attempted Grievous Threat & Major Election Minor GRAND Firearms Perpetrators Murder Hurt Assault State Robbery Arson Abduction to Bribery Mischief Threat Others Related Vote Murder Hurt Intimidation (Total) Offence (Total) TOTAL Involved Resources Property Incidents Related UPFA 3 2 45 26 156 5 11 11 259 22 20 150 192 451 23 PA 0 0 0 SLFP 0 0 0 NFF 0 0 0 JHU-MR 0 0 0 CP 0 0 0 UPFA-MR LSSP 0 0 0 MEP 0 0 0 EPDP 1 7 8 267 1 2 3 197 11 NUA 0 0 0 NC 0 1 1 1 UNP-MR 0 0 0 CWC 0 1 1 1 ACMC 0 0 0 SLMC-MR 0 0 0 DVJP 0 0 0 SLMP 0 0 0 UNP 1 4 1 1 7 2 2 2 6 13 1 JVP 0 0 0

NDF-CC SLMC-CC 2 1 3 1 1 4 DPF 0 0 0 SLFP-CC 0 14 0 16 0 NDF 3 1 4 6 1 2 9 13 JHU-CC 0 0 0 ITAK-CC 0 0 0 UCPF 0 0 0 JSP 0 0 0 OWORS 0 0 0 SEP 0 0 0 USP 0 0 0 ELMSP 0 0 0 SNF 0 0 0 UPF 0 0 0 FSP 0 0 0 SLP 0 0 0 NSSP 0 0 0 DNM 0 0 0 ONF 0 0 0 PNF 0 0 0 NSU 0 0 0 ELPP 0 0 0 INDI 1 0 0 0 INDI 2 0 0 0 POLICE 2 1 1 4 1 1 5 PNG 1 1 11 8 2 1 6 10 40 46 7 12 65 105 16 CMEV 0 0 0 EOR 0 0 0

TOTAL 0 4 3 1 68 35 168 1 12 1 21 11 325 77 31 171 0 279 604 40 0 0

Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence 52 Pre Election Violations Table III

Geographic Spread of Pre-Election Offences by Type Date: [20/11/2014 - 08/01/2015]

Major Incidents Minor Incidents Remarks

Misuse of Damage Total Polling Cards Attempted Grievous Threat & Major Election Minor Firearms Postal Vote AREA / OFFENCE Murder Hurt Assault State Robbery Arson Abduction to Bribery Mischief Threat Others No of Related Murder Hurt Intimidation (Total) Offence (Total) Involved Related Resources Property Incidents Incidents

Western Colombo 5 6 9 20 5 1 20 26 46 6 Gampaha 3 1 5 1 10 1 5 6 16 Kalutara 1 2 10 1 14 10 6 16 30 1 Sub Total (Western) 0 1 0 0 10 7 24 0 1 0 0 1 44 16 1 31 0 48 92 7 0 0 Central Kandy 1 8 2 10 4 1 26 6 3 15 24 50 2 Matale 1 2 1 4 3 3 7 Nuwara Eliya 5 5 3 4 7 12 Sub Total (Central) 0 0 1 0 8 2 16 0 2 0 5 1 35 6 6 22 0 34 69 2 0 0 North Western Kurunegala 1 0 1 9 1 9 1 1 23 1 5 5 11 34 7 Puttlam 2 1 1 1 1 6 2 5 7 13 1 Sub Total (Nor-West) 0 1 0 1 11 2 10 0 0 0 2 2 29 3 5 10 0 18 47 8 0 0 North Central Anuradapura 6 2 6 2 16 5 8 9 22 38 5 Polonnaruwa 1 8 8 5 2 1 25 18 5 9 32 57 8 Sub Total (Nor-Cen.) 0 0 1 0 14 10 11 0 0 0 4 1 41 23 13 18 0 54 95 13 0 0 Southern Galle 1 1 9 2 1 14 4 2 10 16 30 3 Hambantota 3 3 6 1 1 7 2 Matara 2 3 1 2 1 9 2 2 4 13 Sub Total (Southern) 0 0 0 0 6 4 12 1 4 1 1 0 29 7 2 12 0 21 50 5 0 0 Uva Badulla 1 2 4 14 1 1 1 24 2 6 8 32 2 Monaragala 1 1 9 1 1 13 3 7 10 23 Sub Total (Uva) 0 1 0 0 3 5 23 0 2 0 1 2 37 5 0 13 0 18 55 2 0 0 Sabaragamuwa Ratnapura 1 4 1 4 2 3 15 6 5 11 26 2 Kegalle 2 1 3 2 9 11 14 Sub Total (Sabara) 0 1 0 0 4 1 6 0 2 0 4 0 18 8 0 14 0 22 40 2 0 0 Northern Jaffna 1 2 24 27 1 2 10 13 40 Wanni 12 1 13 5 5 18 1 Sub Total (Nothern) 0 0 1 0 2 0 36 0 0 0 0 1 40 1 2 15 0 18 58 1 0 0 Eastern Batticaloa 5 4 7 1 3 20 2 1 15 18 38 Trincomalee 1 12 1 14 3 1 10 14 28 Digamadulla 4 11 1 2 18 3 11 14 32 Sub Total (Eastern) 0 0 0 0 10 4 30 0 1 0 4 3 52 8 2 36 0 46 98 0 0 0 GRAND TOTAL 0 4 3 1 68 35 168 1 12 1 21 11 325 77 31 171 0 279 604 40 0 0

Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence 53 Pre Election Violations Table IV Party Affiliations of Perpetrators vs. Complainants of Pre-Election Offences Date: [20/11/2014 - 08/01/2015]

UPFA-MR NDF-CC COM.by PARTY/ Against TOTAL JSP SLP FSP SEP PNF SNF UPF USP NSU ONF PNG EOR DNM ELPP NSSP INDI 2 INDI 1

PARTY CMEV PA CP NC ELMSP POLICE JVP NFF DPF OWORS NDF UNP MEP NUA CWC SLFP DVJP LSSP UPFA UCPF SLMP EPDP ACMC JHU-CC JHU-MR ITAK-CC UNP- MR SLFP-CC SLMC-CC SLMC-MR

Complaints by UPFA against 3 9 1 7 29 49 United Peoples' Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Complaints by PA against 0 Peoples Alliance (PA) Complaints by SLFP against 0 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Complaints by NFF against 1 1 National Freedom Front (NFF) Complaints by JHU-MR against 0 Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU-MR) Complaints by CP against 0 Sri Lanka Communist Party (CP)

UPFA-MR Complaints by LSSP against 0 Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) Complaints by MEP gainst 0 Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP) Complaints by EPDP against 0 54 Eelam Peoples Democratic Party (EPDP) Complaints by NUA against 0 National Unity Alliance (NUA) Complaints by NC against 1 1 National Congress (NC) Complaints by UNP-MR against 0 United National Party (UNP-MR) Complaints by CWC against 0 Ceylon Workers' Congress (CWC) Complaints by ACMC against 3 3 All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Complaints by SLMC-MR against 0 Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC-MR) Complaints by DVJP against 0 Desha Vimukthi Janatha Party (DVJP) Complaints by SLMP against 0 Sri Lanka Mahajana Pakshaya (SLMP) Complaints by UNP against 96 2 37 135 United National Party (UNP) Complaints by JVP against 3 1 4 People’s Liberation Front (JVP) Complaints by SLMC-CC against 2 2 1 Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC-CC) NDF-CC 5 Complaints by DPF against 1 1 Democratic People's Front (DPF) Complaints by SLFP-CC against 0 219 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP-CC) Complaints by NDF against 45 1 2 25 73 New Democratic Front (NDF) Complaints by JHU-CC against 0 Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU-CC) Complaints by ITAK-CC against 1 1 Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK-CC) Complaints by UCPF against 0 Up-Country People's Front (UPF) Complaints by JSP against 0 Jana Setha Peramuna (JSP) Complaints by OWORS against 0 Okkoma Wasiyo Okkoma Rajawaru Sanvidanaya (OWORS) Complaints by SEP against 0 Socialist Equality Party (SEP) Complaints by USP against 0 United Socialist Party (USP) Complaints by ELMSP against 0 Eksath Lanka Maha Sabha Pakshaya (ELMSP) Complaints by SNF against 0 Sri lanka National Front (SNF) Complaints by UPF against 0 United Peace Front (UPF) Complaints by FSP against 0 Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) Complaints by SLP against 0 Sri Lanka Labour Party (SLP) Complaints by NSSP against 0 Nawa Sama Samaja Party (NSSP) Complaints by DNM against 0 Democratic National Movement (DNM) Complaints by ONF against 0 Our National Front (ONF) Complaints by PNF against 0 Patriotic National Front (PNF) Complaints by NSU against 0 Nawa Sihala Urumaya (NSU) Complaints by ELPP against 0 Eksath Lanka Podujana Pakshaya (ELPP) Complaints by INDI 1 against 0 Independent 1 (INDI) Complaints by INDI 2 against 0 Independent 2 (IND2) Complaints by POLICE against 0 Police Complaints by PNG against 89 3 1 4 1 98 Party Not Given (PNG) Complaints by CMEV against 209 7 1 1 4 1 10 233 Centre For Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) Complaints by EOR against 0 Election Official Related (EOR) 451 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 13 0 4 0 0 13 0 0 0 TOTAL 604 464 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 105 0 0

54 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence

Total Number of Incidents by Type (604)

Minor Incidents 46% Major Incidents 54%

Figure 01

Major Incidents by Type (325) Minor Incidents b y Type (279)

Muder Attempted Muder 11% 11% Hurt 28% 52% Grievous Hurt 21% Mischief Assault Threat Threat & Intimidation 61% Election Offence 7% 4% Misuse of State Resources 1% Other Robbery 0% 0% 3% Arson 1% 0% 0% 0% Abduction Figure 02 Damage to Property Figure 03 Bribery 55

T Major Incidents-Alleged Perpetrators by Party (325) Total Number of Incidents

Alleged Perpetrators by Party (604) 267

464 Number of Incident

14 4 40

UPFA-MR NDF-CC Police PNG Political Party Figure 05

Minor Incidents- Alleged Perpetrators by Party (297) Number of Incident

197

105 Number of Incident

65 30 5 16 1 UPFA-MR NDF-CC Police PNG UPFA-MR NDF-CC POLICE PNG Political Party Political Party Figure 04 Figure 06

TPP Profile of Alleged Major Violations by Party (325)

180 Figure 07 156 Murder 160 Attempted Murder 140 Grievous Hurt 120 Hurt 100 Assault

80 Threat & Intimidation Misuse of State Resources 60 46

Number Incidents of Robbery 40 26 Arson 1111 11 20 9 6 8 6 10 3 2 5 1 2 1 1 1 3 2 1 2 1 1 Abduction 0 Damage to Property UPFA NDF-CC PNG Police Bribery Category of Offences and parties

Profile of Alleged Minor Violations by Party (279)

180 Figure 08 160 154 140 120 100 Mischief 80 Threat Election Offence 60 46 Number Incidents of 40 Other 22 21 20 9 7 12 3 4 1 0 UPFA NDF-CC PNG Police Category of offences and parties

57 Complaints Made by UPFA (54) Complaints Made by NDF (219)

2% 13%

30%

54% 33% 1% 67%

Complaints made against UPFA

Complaints made against NDF-CC Figure 09 Figure 10 Complaints made against PNG

Complaints made against Police

Complaints Made by PNG (98) Complaints Made by CMEV Monitors (233)

93%

1% 4%

2% 95%

Figure 11 Figure 12

Total Incidents by District (604)

60 57

50 50 46

Number of Incidents Incidents of Number 40 40 38 38

34 32 32 30 30 30 28 26 23

20 18 16 14 13 13 12

10 7 7

District

Figure 13 59 60 Election Day Monitoring ______Presidential Election - 2015

61 in the polling centers and where voting is visible to persons in the polling station and outside. Areas where this has been reported included Matara (polling centres 40-41), Pottuvil (polling centre 64) and Mullaitivu areas (polling centre 77). CMEV is continuing to receive reports of campaigning on Election Day despite it being forbidden under electoral law. Some of the reports received include un- th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. solicited SMS messages being circulated and distribution of campaign material Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. in and around polling stations. CMEV received a number of such complaints all E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org against the UPFA including:

Presidential Election 2015 • A mass SMS message circulated in Sinhala from the number Election Day Communiqué 1 +94766887347 urging recipients to vote for the betel leaf. CMEV attempted to contact the user of the phone, however no one responded. Polling for the Presidential Election 2015 commenced at 7am. One incident of an explosion was reported during this period from Point Pedro, Jaffna. CMEV • A mass SMS message in Tamil calling for a boycott of the election was informed that the explosion was caused due to a hand grenade with no in- from the number +778313850. CMEV also received reports of SMS mes- juries reported. sages in Tamil calling for a rejection of candidate Maithripala Sirisena sent via numbers +775478817 and +770217836. CMEV received a report of voters being prevented from voting. More than 200 people living in Nagavillu and Huseniya, Puttalam whose polling stations are • Canvassing for the UPFA candidate around the Deraniyagala in Mannar, were unable to travel there as the buses were blocked by Puttalam Kanishta Vidyalaya polling station 23, Deraniyagala, Kegalle at around Urban Council Chairman, Mr K.A. Baiz and his supporters. Baiz and his sup- 8.00 am. porters threatened the CTB and private bus drivers and prevented them from going to these villages. • UPFA leaflets were distributed near the Allepola Maha Vidyalaya polling station 10 in Balangoda, Ratnapura at 7:05 am. CMEV is concerned that voters are being prevented from exercising their franchise and urge the authorities to take immediate action. CMEV has raised the • An unknown party distributed leaflets instructing voters to cast issue with the Commissioner of Elections, Mahinda Deshapriya urging immedi- their vote for the betel leaf (UPFA) on the road leading to the Ahaliyago- ate action. He informed CMEV that he is aware of the situation. da polling station 40, Ratnapura at 8:30 am.

CMEV received reports of a number of incidents where attempts were made to • A small group of people had arrived in a three-wheeler (NW AH intimidate of voters. Between 7.30 – 8.30 am UPFA supporters at Arafa Primary 3788) at the Bogawalana polling station, No 36, Dambadeniya, Puttalam School, Polling Station 5, Weligama, Matara attempted to force voters to support and distributed printed cards in support of the UPFA. President Mahinda Rajapaksa. • About 100 metres away from the Weuda Kanishta Vidhyalaya, CMEV also notes several areas where there was no privacy in the voting booths No 04 polling station, Kurunegala, a group of persons distributed UPFA 62 cards with the betel symbol.

• From around 7.00 am onwards fake ballot papers marked in favour of President Rajapaksa were handed out to voters within 500 meters of the polling station Number 75, Al- Hamra Muslim Maha Vidyalayam, th Irakkakandy, Trincomalee. Similar reports were received near Sorana- 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. thota Primary School (polling centre No. 14), in the Viyaluwa electorate Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. in the Badulla district. E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

8th January – voters transported by a private bus to polling stations Presidential Election 2015 CMEV was informed at 8.05 am that ten persons comprising of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporters and civil defense forces picked up voters Election Communiqué 2 along the route to Kiribbanwewa Vidyalaya (Polling Center No. 87), Mullaitivu. They were picked up by a private bus bearing the license plate number HT6173. CMEV notes that polling has been brisk but a few major incidents have been reported. Three explosions have so far been reported on the day of polls. The first CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free was in Point Pedro, reported in Communiqué 1. A second incident involved an Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- explosion in Beruwala targeting a house of a Muslim businessman. No injuries dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election were reported. The third incident in Vavuniya is provided below. related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre. CMEV also notes several incidents of assault, threat and intimidation allegedly by ruling party politicians and their supporters. Some incidents are as follows - All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org a grenade explosion outside the Vavuniya polling station.

A grenade explosion took place near Nelukkulam Kalaimagal Maha Vidyalaya, Polling Station 32-33-34, Vavuniya at 2.30 pm. The explosion took place 50m near to the gate of the polling station. No injuries were reported. The police are investigating.

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Two women were struck by UPFA Deputy Minister in the Attanagalla electorate, Co – Convenor Gamapaha District

A report has been received by CMEV that UPFA Deputy Minister Sarana Gu- nawardana and a group of supporters hit two women, near the Yatiyana Junior School (polling centre no: 51) at approximately 1.00 pm on the 8th of January. It was also reported that Deputy Minster Gunawardana and his group of supporters were travelling in 7 vehicles in and around the area. CMEV is yet to receive 63 further information regarding this assault. Voters escorted to the polling station by EPDP members

Assault near Mihintale polling station CMEV received a complaint at 8.55 am that Eelam People’s Democratic Party CMEV received a report that North Central Minister S.M. Ranjith, his supporter (EPDP) local council member Iyathurai Sri Rangeswaran escorted a few voters Sumith and others had assaulted Wimalasiri A.H.M. and a few other people. The from the KKS electorate, polling division C in Jaffna to the Tellipalai Mahajana culprits were seen with wooden rods and guns. The victim, Wimalasiri A.H.M. College (polling station number 32) to vote. has been admitted to the Senapura Hospital. No complaint has been lodged. Campaigning in front of polling stations in Kilinochchi Minister R.M. Ajantha Kumara Jayasinghe intimidating voters in Kalawewa Anu- radhapura A CMEV monitor in Kilinochchi reported at 10.15 am that one EPDP member and one member of the Pradeshiya Sabha, along with some Samurdhi Develop- CMEV received a complaint that Minister R.M. Ajantha Kumara Jayasinghe was ment Officers, were present at the entrance of the polling station at Punnalneer- intimidating voters and asking them to vote for President Rajapaksa near the avi Government Tamil Mixed School (Polling Station 57), urging voters to vote Thambuttegama Community Hall in Kalawewa, Anuradhapura. for President Rajapaksa.

SLMC member assaulted and threatened. Intimidating voters in Puttalam

CMEV received a report that supporters of Minister A.L.M. Athaula (National CMEV received a report at 9.15 am from the Palaviya Sinhala Maha Vidyalaya, Congress) assaulted and threatened a Sri Lanka Muslim Congress member, Mr. No.42 polling station, the SPO was standing near the polling booth and inspect- Thalha in Akkaraipattu. Mr. Thalha made a police complaint regarding this. ing in how people were casting their votes. When the CMEV monitor had inquired, he has stated that he was monitoring whether the ballot papers were Allegations of Iniya Bharathi entering polling centre in Thirukovil being taken out of the polling station.

Eyewitnesses informed CMEV of SLFP organiser, Iniya Bharathi, entering Sri Voters picked up by a private bus and taken to polling stations Ramakrishna Vidyalayam Polling Station (number 79) at 11.45 am in Thirukovil and allege that he carried with him extra ballot papers which he stuffed into the It was reported to the CMEV at 8.05 am that ten persons comprising of United ballot boxes. The CMEV monitor at the centre confirmed Iniya Bharathi entered People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporters and civil defence forces picked up the polling centre but no other information is presently known. The Commis- voters along the route to Kiribbanwewa Vidyalaya (No.87), a polling station for sioner of Elections was informed by CMEV and is presently investigating the people of the Mullaitivu area. They had been picked up by a private bus bearing situation. the license plate number HT6173 by people wearing red t-shirts. CMEV monitors have photographic evidence. CMEV received reports of a couple of incidents where continuing campaigning and other violations were committed by the EPDP. Army officer standing outside polling station in Visvamadu, Mullaitivu

CMEV received a report at around 8.35 am of an Army officer standing outside the Bharathy Vidyalaya, Visuwamadu – Hall No. 2 polling station (No. 54) in the 64 polling division “C” Mullaitivu, of the Vanni Electorate of the Mullaitivu District CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human th Rights Documentation Centre. 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org

Presidential Election 2015

Statement at the Conclusion of Polling 8th January 2015

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu CMEV deployed a total of approximately 4,500 monitors in the field, in poll- Co – Convenor ing stations and in mobile teams in the 2015 Presidential Election. On Election Day, CMEV recorded 223 incidents with 101 major incidents and 122 minor incidents. Out of the 223 incidents CMEV documented 124 incidents against the ruling UPFA with unknown actors cited as the alleged perpetrator in 81 incidents. Out of the major incidents, six incidents related to assault and six were of threat and intimidation. Election Day witnessed several other incidents of election related violations including electioneering and misuse of state resources with most violations attributed to government politicians and supporters.

Notwithstanding the above and the incidents in the campaign noted below, CMEV believes that the voting in this Presidential Election was not significantly distorted by violence and malpractice and we salute our fellow citizens for ensuring this.

Turnout was relatively high reflecting the level of interest in the election despite the short campaign period. There were challenges however, that impacted the ability of some voters to freely exercise their franchise. For instance, on Election Day, CMEV also raised concerns with the Commissioner of Elections about an estimated 6,000 eligible voters in Puttalam being unable to travel to Mannar to vote. The inability to address this issue resulted in a significant population being deprived of their constitutional right to the franchise and is indicative of the 65 political thuggery embedded in our political culture and practice. CMEV also Whilst CMEV notes the constructive responses of the Commissioner and his received reports of voters having to mark their ballots in full view of election officials on a number of occasions, we also note that there were instances where officials and others. our efforts to monitor the process were thwarted. On Election Day, CMEV was unable to access two polling centres – one each in Kalutara and Matara, The Northern Province witnessed a number of attempts to impact voter turn- respectively. When apprised of this, the Commissioner of Elections remedied out on Election Day through intimidation, threats and confusing messages. The the anomalies. CMEV places on record its appreciation of the Commissioner’s call for a boycott and attempts to discourage voting for the common opposition response and looks forward to similar constructive engagement in the future. candidate through the circulation of unsolicited text messages and handbills, In this context, CMEV reiterates the need for independent institutions including all contributed to a charged and confused environment. This, coupled with two independent commissions for elections, police and public services, underscor- explosions – one each in Jaffna and Vavuniya, respectively, may have impacted ing the need for constitutional and legal reform to ensure the integrity of the the relatively lower turnout than expected in these districts. electoral process.

The pre-election report released by CMEV on 6 January 2015, raised concerns We conclude this report by thanking the Commissioner of Elections and the about shortcomings in the postal voting process, the role of the military in par- Police for the cooperation extended to CMEV, and very especially to our moni- ticular in the intimidation of voters and the unprecedentedly large-scale abuse tors and the public for their steadfast commitment and support which made our of state property including the employment of the state–controlled media, even monitoring exercise possible. after the end of the official campaign period and on polling day, for relentless government propaganda. CMEV welcomed several court orders against perpetrators of election violence, but is dismayed that no one has yet to be held to CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free account. The campaign witnessed several instances where CMEV monitors were Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- threatened and attacked, and human rights defenders and media activists were dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election threatened. This election, although not seen as one of the most violent in recent related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human history, witnessed attacks against election officials by supporters of ministers, Rights Documentation Centre. which CMEV condemned and called for swift action in respect of. All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org CMEV takes this opportunity to commend the decisive action taken by the Commissioner for Elections, Mahinda Deshapriya to insist on a correction on air by Rupavahini to a false news item broadcast this morning, claiming that UNP Deputy Leader Sajith Premadasa had joined the Government.

The Commissioner of Elections issued a number of instructions prior to voting day in order to minimise abuses of electoral law. Furthermore, recognising Dr. P. Saravanamuttu international standards on the important role election monitors can play in in- Co – Convenor creasing transparency and public confidence in the electoral process, Mr. De- shapriya granted election monitoring organisations the opportunity to monitor the counting process for the first time in Sri Lanka. 66 Summary of Election Day Incidents ______By Electoral Division

67 68 ELECTORAL DIVISION TOTAL No. No. OF No. OF No. OF IN- SPECIAL COMMENTS OF REG- POLLING POLLING CIDENTS ISTERED CENTRES CENTRES REPORTED VOTERS MONI- RELATED TORED TO POLLING DAY PRO- CESS COLOMBO DISTRICT Colombo North 89771 60 17 0 Colombo Central 131482 103 30 2 Vijayaba Maha Vidyalaya (No. 28) CMEV monitors noted that about 100 individuals who came to the polling station had to leave without voting as their names were not registered in the electoral list. CMEV did not receive information on whether they had submitted their application to renew on time.

Al Iqbal Girls School, Hall 2 (No. 77) A CMEV mobile monitor noted that a van with a poster captioned ‘APE JANAPATHI MAHINDA’ was parked in front of the polling station (Hall 2). Promotional material in the form of small cards were scattered around the above polling station but were later removed by police mobile units.

Colombo East 66941 45 25 2 Vidyaranya Thripitaka Dharmayathana Hall of Sri Dharmodhaya Pirivena (No. 40) CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident where UPFA Colombo North Organiser Mr Pradeep Gunawardana visited the polling centre and urged voters to cast their vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at approximately 11.30 am.

Dudley Senanayake Vidyalaya (No. 16) A person named Karunakaran, driving a red three wheeler (AAG 1038), was seen collecting polling cards outside the polling station as well as in the nearby lanes and neighbouring areas.

Colombo West 40609 29 38 0 69 Borella 60109 44 16 1 Vipulananda Tamil Maha Vidyalaya (No. 10) CMEV received a complaint that several individuals were sent back by the SPO of the polling station after he said that the numbers on their national identity cards were incorrect. Dehiwala 59812 39 27 1 Preaching Hall of Sri Mangalarama Viharaya (No. 39) CMEV received reports of an incident where people yelled out the phrase ‘MAITHREE TA JAYA WEWA’ and ‘ANKA 14TA GAHANNA’ while travelling in several vehicles on the Kawdana – Bellantara roads. It was also reported that the police were pursuing them at the time. Ratmalana 66793 49 16 0 Kolonnawa 120617 78 37 2 Preaching Hall of Sri Jinendrarama Viharasthanaya in Himbutana, Ango- da (No. 15) Mr G.P. Gunasena (appointed polling agent by NDF) complained to CMEV that he was not allowed to enter the polling centre.

Sri Rahula Vidyalaya, Wellampitiya, Hall 2 (No. 63) Mrs Eleena Hajno complained to CMEV that around 30 mentally disabled women with temporary IDs were transported to the polling centre with instructions from an inspector on whom they should vote for. After inspecting the marked ballot papers by the same individual they were dropped into the box. When the complainant raised this with the inspector, he said that it was because these individuals were not of sound mind and would not be able to make the correct decision.

Kotte 74934 49 34 1 Moragasmulla Sri Sobitha Primary School, Main Hall (No. 3) CMEV received complaints that campaign material for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa was found at the polling centre. Accord- ing to reports, a small strip with a printed cross against the symbol of a betel leaf and a photo of Mahinda Rajapaksa were found, while leaflets were also found scattered on the ground in the area.

Kaduwela 173355 112 20 0 Avissawella 117472 80 39 0 70 Homagama 174909 101 31 2 Dhamma School of Sri Sasanawardanarama Viharasthanaya , Mahakatu- wana Road, Homagama (No. 56) A CMEV monitor reported that he was not allowed access to the polling centre. When he inquired from the SPO, Mr Sumedha, he stated that the letter sent from the Elections Commissioner granting approval for CMEV to access the polling centre had not been received. CMEV attempted to contact the SPO, but he was unreachable at that time.

Uduwana Sri Supeshalaramaya (No. 44) CMEV mobile monitor reported that at around 11.00 am pens en- graved with the name of Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena were found being used in the above polling station. Maharagama 129801 80 33 0 Kesbewa 164744 101 20 1 A complaint was received by CMEV that a Buddhist priest at the Pili- yandala Seethala Diya Senasuna temple publicly asked the people who visited the temple to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapak- sa at 10.30 am. Moratuwa 115219 83 41 1 A complaint was received by CMEV regarding an incident where UPFA supporters urged people around Moratuwa University to vote for Presi- dential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at approximately 10.30am. TOTAL 1 586 598 1053 374 13 GAMPAHA DISTRICT Wattala 120471 67 32 1 Kerawalapitiya Vidyaloka Vidyalaya (No. 28) CMEV was informed of an incident where voters were intimidated and made to leave the polling station by Wattala UPFA Pradeshiya Sabha member Thayaga de Alwis.

Negombo 106213 64 38 0 Katana 143885 84 44 1 Thoppuwa Roman Catholic Tamil Maha Vidyalaya (No. 05) CMEV received a complaint that supporters of UPFA Pradeshiya Sabha Minister Jehan Fernandopulle intimidated people and encouraged them to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa near the polling centre at around 11.40 am. Divulapitiya 108529 74 40 0

71 Mirigama 124679 83 38 1 CMEV was informed of election offences in the areas of Veyangoda, Maligathenna, Bogahawatta and Mirigama where people driving in an unidentified motorcycle and white van threw leaflets encouraging voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Minuwangoda 132981 76 39 1 Pasdaduwana /Aswana Viharaya in Gampaha CMEV received a complaint that a drinks dansala was operated by UPFA supporters at 10.30 am.

Attanagalla 133023 81 81 4 Yatiyana Junior School (No. 51) A report was received by CMEV that UPFA Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena and a group of supporters struck two women near the polling centre at approximately 1 pm. It was also reported that Deputy Minster Gunawardena and his group of supporters had been travelling in seven vehicles, in and around the area.

CMEV received a complaint regarding alleged bribery by the supporters of the UPFA, where they handed out Rs 2000 each in exchange for votes for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa, at Uduthuth- thiripitiya, opposite a branch of Samurdhi bank at around 10.30 am.

Veyangoda St. Mary’s Maha Vidyalaya, Halls 1 and 2 (No. 27 and 28) CMEV received a complaint that UPFA Deputy Minister Sarana Gun- awardena, Vice chairman of Attanagalla PS and a group of supporters (around 30) showed up in blue T-shirts with images of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa and entered into polling centres to cast their votes.

Wataddara Ganekanda Sri Sumanarama Old Temple, Preaching Halls 1 and 2 (No. 34 and 35) CMEV received a complaint regarding UPFA Deputy Minister Sarana Gunawardena and his supporters, who allegedly entered the polling centres and canvassed voters before they cast their votes, at approximately 11.30 am.

72 Gampaha 147280 86 24 2 Horagolla Junior School (No. 9) A complaint was received by CMEV regarding leaflets being distributed by UPFA supporters at the polling centre at approximately 8.30 am. Meanwhile, reports also stated that a group of approximately 20 people were gathered within 100 to 200 metres of the polling station at that time.

CMEV was further informed that voters were not given their privacy, their ballot papers were shown to SPO L.P Chandrasiri and UPFA propaganda materials were scattered on the floor. When the CMEV monitor reached the location 50% of the votes were already cast

Ja-Ela 143843 75 34 1 St Xavier Maha Vidyalaya, Hall 2 (No. 70) Mrs M Inoka de Silva complained to CMEV that she was subjected to the unfair loss of her vote. Having applied for a postal vote, Mrs de Silva received the polling card after postal vots was finished, although she should have received it before the 23rd of December, the polling card had also been stamped on the 20th of December, as confirmed by images received by CMEV. When she visited the polling station she was told that she would not be allowed to vote as she has been marked as an elector vote by post.

Mahara 149453 80 27 6 The New Building of the International Buddhist Centre (No. 11) CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident where UPFA supporters casting their votes were wearing T-shirts promoting Presiden- tial Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Dharmaraja Vidyalaya (No. 16) CMEV received a complaint that Mr Anura Jayamevan Pathirana (661003863 V), resident of Kadawatha, was unable to vote as his vote had already been cast by someone else. This occurred at 2 pm.

73 Dalupitiya Vidyachandra Junior School (No. 29) CMEV was told that certain people were allowed to vote after present- ing railway service identification documents even though they did not have their national identity cards with them. The SPO of the polling centre did not allow these people to vote. However, the JPO of this polling station allowed them to vote as they made it clear that they were going to cast their vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Kirimatiyagara Holy Family Convent (No. 25) CMEV was reported an incident where four people loitered and intimidated passing voters within 500 metres of the polling centre.

Kendaliyaddapaluwa Jayakody Maha Vidyalaya (No. 7) CMEV received a complaint that Biyagama Pradeshiya Sabha Chair- man Mr Ganepola, UPFA organiser Dulip Wijesekara and a group of UPFA supporters assaulted and beat a voter at the polling centre at around 11 am. According to the report, Mr Wijesekara and his group travelled in a Land Rover and two Prados to the polling centre. When the police arrived on the scene, they too were yelled at and chased away by the group, inclusive of Chairman Mr Wijesekara.

Preaching Hall of Sri Viwekarama Viharaya, Uruwala (No. 74) CMEV was informed of an incident where a CMEV day monitor observed that Pradeshiya Sabha member Gayan’s supporters had been seen within 500 metres of the polling centre. As the day observer was writing this incident down, the UPFA polling agent asked her to erase it.

Dompe 115356 75 37 1 Ovitigama Bodhiraja Maha Vidyalaya (No. 55) CMEV received a complaint that four UPFA supporters were standing some distance from the polling centre and forcibly trying to make others vote for Mahinda Rajapaksa. This took place in the afternoon.

Biyagama 121702 67 45 0 Kelaniya 90 122 56 32 0 TOTAL 1 637 537 968 471 18 74 KALUTARA DISTRICT Panadura 114 828 64 40 0 Bandaragama 133 887 72 33 0 Horana 122 511 65 30 0 Bulathsinhala 82 123 57 36 2 Godakumbura Buddhist Centre, Mahagama (No. 26) CMEV received a complaint that supporters of UPFA member Nirma- la Kothalawala distributed 3D calendars with an image of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at the polling centre at approximately 11 am.

Preaching Hall of Polegoda Sri Sudarshanarama Viharaya (No. 29) CMEV received a complaint that cards with the text “Maithri Paala- nayak” were being distributed by supporters of UNP member Palitha Thewapperuma, near the polling centre from 10.30 am onwards, in small time intervals.

Mathugama 108 996 61 33 0 Kalutara 117 931 65 36 3 Sri Seevali Maha Vidyalaya, Kudaheenatiyagala (No. 39) CMEV received a complaint that an individual wearing a white T-shirt was attempting to influence voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at the polling centre.

Cultural Centre of Malasne Rajamaha Viharaya, Uggalboda (No. 29) CMEV received news that several voters in the polling station in Kal- utara were not allowed to vote as they were told their identity card numbers were incorrect.

Galassa Junior School, Nagoda (No. 43) CMEV received a report that Pradeshiya Sabha Member Lakshman Pathirana visited polling centres in the Kalutara area and threatened voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

75 Beruwala 117 033 66 34 1 CMEV received a complaint stating that an unknown person on a motor bike with no number plate, wearing a helmet, threw firecrackers over the wall of a UNP supporter’s house, situated in Beruwala, causing minor damage to his house and vehicle, at 10 am. Beruwala Police confirmed that the victim, M.M. Munafar, lodged a complaint under entry number EIB 5/58. Agalawatta 100 040 90 41 6 Sri Sunanda Junior School, Moragala (No. 26) CMEV received a complaint with regard to an incident which took place within 300 metres of the polling centre, whereby an image of a large betel leaf was drawn by UPFA supporters using lacquer on the tar road leading to Moragala from the polling centre.

Agalawatta Mulatiyana Primary School (No. 43) CMEV received a complaint that campaign material papers with false information that Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena’s symbol was a three wheeler and not a swan were distributed near the polling centre by Mrs Nilanthi Sepalika, a Samurdhi Officer.

Meegahathenna Primary School (No. 29), Meegahathenna Vidyarama Pirivena (No. 30) and Meegahathenna Meril Kariyawasam Central Col- lege (No. 31) CMEV received a complaint that the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Plantation Industries Mahinda Samarasinghe and his supporters gathered near the above polling centres within short time intervals, commencing at approximately 1 pm. Reports stated that Mr Sama- rasinghe and his supporters travelled in six vehicles, and met near the above mentioned polling centres.

CMEV was informed that UPFA supporters (three wheel drivers) were campaigning for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at Agala- watta Meegahathenna junction in the afternoon.

CMEV received a complaint stating that Walallawita Pradeshiya Sabha member Kelum transported voters within the Meegahathenna Police Division.

76 Mihindu Central College (No. 40) and the Primary Section of Agalawatta Mihindu Central College (No. 39) CMEV received a complaint that two blue coloured double cabs bearing the numbers 51- 5127 and 30-0886, allegedly driven by supporters of UPFA member Nirmala Kothalawala, were driven around the polling centres in the areas above with stickers pasted on the vehicles which stated that the choice of whether the country would be given to the Tamils was with the citizens. Reports also stated that leaflets with the same statements were distributed around this area.

TOTAL 897 349 540 283 12 RATNAPURA DIS- TRICT Eheliyagoda 96 170 71 35 2 Ellagawa Sri Sanghikarama Preaching Hall (No. 41) CMEV received information that a group of unidentified people asked voters who were passing by to vote for the betel leaf symbol while distributing leaflets near the polling centres.

Preaching Hall of Meegaswela Sri Bodhimalu Viharaya (No. 20) CMEV noted that there were UPFA banners and posters within 500 yards of the polling centre.

Ratnapura 121 108 88 36 0 Pelmadulla 83 934 65 36 3 Peralanda Vidyalaya (No. 64) CMEV was told that there was a civilian at the gate who was asking voters to vote for the UPFA.

Preaching Hall Of Sri Gnanarama Viharasthanaya, Ihala Bopitiya (No. 25) CMEV was informed that there were five members of the UPFA loiter- ing near the polling centre.

R/Alupola Tamil Vidyalaya (No. 8) CMEV received a complaint that elderly voters were intimidated into voting for the UPFA near the polling station.

77 Balangoda 106 575 94 25 2 Ellepola Maha Vidyalaya (No. 10) A CMEV monitor reported that leaflets were distributed near the polling station.

Balangoda St. Agnes Primary School (No. 8) CMEV received a complaint that there were UPFA leaflets scattered across the road near the polling station.

Rakwana 102 618 78 32 2 Metihakwala Vidyalaya (No. 51) CMEV received a complaint that small cards with Presidential Candi- date Mahinda Rajapaksa on them were scattered in the area around the polling centre.

R/Alpitiya Sri Siddhartha Maha Vidyalaya (No. 17) CMEV was told of an attack at a house at Rideewita junction close to the above polling centre. Minister Ranjith Soysa and accomplices broke into the house and attacked dwellers without reason.

Nivithigala 96 156 75 41 0 Kalawana 62 773 51 28 2 Sri Thapassararama Viharasthanaya, Thapassarakanda (No.27) A CMEV monitor reported that there were leaflets in support of Pres- idential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa scattered at the premises of the polling centre.

Panapola Vidyalaya (No. 40) A CMEV monitor noticed that there were leaflets promoting the UPFA scattered around the roads near the polling centre.

Kolonna 140 082 102 59 1 Maduwanwela Janapada Vidyalaya (No. 54) Leaflets of both Presidential Candidates, Maithripala Sirisena and Ma- hinda Rajapaksa, were scattered in the road near the polling centre.

TOTAL 810 082 624 292 12

78 KEGALLE DISTRICT Dedigama 87 800 76 1 Nangalla Muslim Vidyalaya (No. 18) CMEV was informed that the ink used to mark the fingers of voters faded before the voters could vote. Galigamuwa 67 375 60 31 0 Kegalle 71 183 62 41 0 Rambukkana 65 337 53 26 0 Mawanella 90 627 72 33 0 Aranayaka 53 207 53 0 0 Yatiyanthota 74 244 67 21 0 Ruwanwella 73 498 67 31 1 Atulugama Mayadunna Maha Vidyalaya (No. 51) CMEV was informed that banners of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa and Minister Sarath Wijesuriya were on display at the polling centre. Deraniyagala 66607 59 42 3 Deraniyagala Muhandiram Junior School (No. 23) CMEV was informed of UPFA propaganda activities taking place near the polling centre.

Deraniyagala Sirisaman National School (No. 24) At 6 am CMEV was reported that UPFA and NDF posters were displayed near the school.

At 7 am CMEV monitor informed that about 10 party representatives remained at the polling centre violating legally allowed number of representatives for each party. TOTAL 649 878 569 225 5 KURUNEGALA DIS- TRICT Galgamuwa 103 488 75 25 0 Nikaweratiya 94 910 71 43 1 Mahamithawa Junior School (No. 13) CMEV was informed that M.P. Pathirana was seen distributing leaflets with a group of people near the polling station at 8.40 am. Nikaweratiya Police intervened and stopped them from distributing more leaflets.

79 Yapahuwa 113 858 78 32 0 Hiriyala 97 886 75 49 0 Wariyapola 76 817 55 28 0 Panduwasnuwara 74 100 59 28 0 Bingiriya 88 306 69 29 0 Katugampola 94 505 71 32 0 Kuliyapitiya 100 474 73 35 2 Essedduma Subarathi Vidyalaya (No. 73) CMEV received information that cards and leaflets with the swan and betel leaf marks of the two main candidates were distributed and scattered on the roads near the above polling centre.

CMEV received a complaint that 25 employees from Asiri bookshop and Asiri Pharmaceuticals near Kuliyapitiya junction did not get time off to cast their votes, which is a violation of workers’ rights.

Dambadeniya 94560 68 42 2 Boyawalana Maha Vidyalaya (No. 36) CMEV received a report that a small group of people arrived in a three wheeler (NW AH 3788) and distributed small cards in support of the UPFA. Polgahawela 77321 55 25 1 Uhumeeya D.S. Senanayaka Central College (No. 1) CMEV received information that cards and leaflets with the swan and betel leaf marks were distributed and scattered on the roads near the above polling centre.

Kurunegala 88332 59 25 0 Mawathagama 90682 65 36 1 Royal College Weuda (No. 4) CMEV received a report that about 100 metres away from the polling station a group of people distributed UPFA cards with the ‘bulathkole’ mark along the road. Dodamgaslanda 70204 52 23 0 TOTAL 1266443 925 452 7

80 PUTTALAM DISTRICT Puttalam 125702 75 54 4 CMEV received reports that more than 200 voters living in Nagavilu and Huseniya, Puttalam whose polling stations were in Mannar were unable to travel to Mannar to cast their votes as the buses were blocked by Chairman of Puttalam U.C (UPFA), K.A. Baiz and his supporters. From the night before Election Day, K.A. Baiz and his supporters made threats to CTB and private bus drivers and prevented them from going to these villages.

Palaviya Sinhala Maha Vidyalaya (No. 42) CMEV received a report that the SPO had not allowed a person to vote because one letter of his name was spelt incorrectly on his polling card when compared to his national identity card.

Palaviya Sinhala Maha Vidyalaya (No. 42) CMEV received a report that the SPO was standing near the polling booth and inspecting at close proximity how people were casting their votes. When the CMEV monitor inquired, the SPO stated that he was monitoring whether the ballot papers were being taken out of the polling station.

Muslim Cultural Centre (No. 33) CMEV received a report that the Puttalam Urban Council Chairman, K.A. Baiz (UPFA) was seen taking photographs near the polling station. The CMEV monitor spoke to the SPO and was informed that he was going to other polling stations and trying to take photographs. Anamaduwa 112978 91 44 1 Kivula Junior School (No. 11) CMEV received a report that JVP and UNP supporters were assaulted by a member of Pradeshiya Sabha, Janaka (UPFA) and his brother Amila. Two NDF supporters, Rohendra and Thushara, were injured by the attack. A police complaint was made at Puttalam Police Station. Chilaw 118171 82 51 2 Attangane Junior School (No. 13) CMEV received information that two UNP polling agents present at the station had written ‘UNP’ on the registration form. The other election monitors raised the issue and the SPO intervened and resolved the prob- lem. 81 Sippikalana Junior School (No. 47) CMEV received a complaint from Nimal Jayamanne, a UNP supporter, that about 15 persons along with a person named Sumith had come near the polling station and started to influence people to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at around 8 am. A complaint had made to Chilaw Police Station but there was not any follow up from the police by the time this was reported to CMEV. 89975 64 26 3 Dematapitiya Junior School (No. 28) Nattandiya CMEV received a report that Ganegoda Sunil Perera and a group of UPFA supporters were standing near the polling station urging people to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa. Later, the police asked them to move from the premises.

Walahapitiya Dharmaraja Junior School (No. 47) CMEV received a report that some UPFA supporters residing near the polling station were intimidating voters to vote for Presidential Candi- date Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Koswadiya Saraswathie Maha Vidyalaya (No. 52) CMEV received a report that some UPFA supporters were urging people to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa near the polling station. Wennappuwa 106183 75 33 2 St. Anne’s Junior School Sirigampala (No. 3) A group of people wearing blue shirts arrived near the polling station. They were identified as Provincial Council Member W.M.J.C. Fernando’s (UNP) supporters. Their presence intimidated voters.

Loordhu Matha Church (No. 13) CMEV received a report that a person named ‘Kannadi Ajith’ and about 15 UPFA supporters were standing near the polling station urging voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa. This group of people were identified as supporters of Chilaw Urban Council Chairman Hilary Prasanna Fernando. TOTAL 553009 387 208 12

82 JAFFNA DISTRICT Kayts 22 057 47 42 2 It was reported to CMEV that voters in Kayts, Jaffna received an SMS to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa and an SMS from the number 0778313850 telling people to avoid voting altogether. These SMS messages were allegedly sent by United People’s Freedom Alliance supporters.

CMEV received complaints that handbills telling people to vote for Pres- idential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa or to abstain from voting were thrown around in Kayts and near St. Mary’s School, Kayts and other polling stations by United People’s Freedom Alliance supporters. Vaddukoddai 47 621 57 51 0 Kankesanthurai 63 217 58 52 1 Tellippalai Mahajana College (No. 32) CMEV received a complaint that Eelam People’s Democratic Party (EPDP) local council member Iyathurai Sri Rangeswaran escorted a few voters from polling division C in Jaffna to the above polling station and then waited for them to come out, after voting at around 8.55 am. Manipay 54 567 62 61 0 Kopay 55 891 60 58 0 Uduppiddy 39 204 53 46 0 Point Pedro 36 138 43 40 3 J/Alvai Sri Lanka Vidyalaya (No. 1) The blast of grenade was reported by the CMEV monitor in Point Pedro, Jaffna, near the polling station, at around 10.20 am.

St. Thomas’ Roman Catholic Girls School (No. 25) CMEV monitor in Jaffna reports of campaigning activity on behalf of Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena carried out by Northern Provincial Council member Somasuntharam Sugirthan, party member of the Tamil National Alliance. He was accompanied by one other unidentified person. The complaint was received from Mr Thavarasa, who is an authorised agent for the UPFA Presidential Candidate.

Puttalai Maha Vidyalaya, Halls1 and 2 (No. 17 and 18) CMEV received a report of an army officer standing outside the polling stations (within 20 metres) in Point Pedro. 83 Chavakachcheri 51 702 51 44 0 Nallur 46 699 52 52 2 Kondavil Maha Vidyalaya (No. 21 and 22) The CMEV monitor in Jaffna reported that chairman Vasanthakumar of the Nallur Pradeshiya Sabha, accompanied by Pradeshiya Sabha Member Tharmarathnam, was carrying out campaign activities in front of the polling stations. They were campaigning on behalf of Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena.

Jaffna Hindu Ladies’ College (No. 44 and 45) CMEV received a complaint that campaign cards supporting Presiden- tial Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were thrown on the roads leading to and in front of the polling station at 2.12 pm by United People’s Free- dom Alliance (UPFA) supporters.

Jaffna 33 050 43 43 2 The CMEV monitor in Jaffna reported that, subsequent to the explosion reported in Point Pedro as well as the discovery of an undetonated explosion device in Vavuniya, further rumors of explosions spread “all around Jaffna” causing intimidation among the locals.

CMEV was informed that there was a lack of CTB buses compared to previous days. However, there were private buses. This could have had an effect on voter transport on Election Day. Kilinochchi 79 093 95 90 2 KN/ Punnaineeravi Government Tamil Mixed School (No. 57) CMEV received a complaint that at 10.15 am a group of people consisting of an Eelam People’s Freedom Alliance Party (EPDP) member, a Pradeshiya Sabha member and some Samurdhi Development officers campaigned outside the polling station, urging the people of Kilinoch- chi to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Ramanathapuram West Government Tamil Mixed School (No. 42) The CMEV monitor in Kilinochchi reported that a person was arrested in front of the polling station for having distributed campaign cards supporting Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

TOTAL 529 239 621 527 12 84 Mannar 79 433 70 66 3 CMEV received complaints that at around 4 am 1,500 voters from Hu- sainiya and 6,000 voters from Nagavilluwa were prevented from going to Periyamadu, Mannar, where they have their voting rights.

CMEV received complaints that at around 6 am United People’s Free- dom Alliance (UPFA) supporters distributed small cards supporting Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa with his symbol on them, throwing them onto the Mannar Kurumankadu road and all over the Vanni area.

Eluthoor Roman Catholic Tamil School (No. 12) It was reported to CMEV that a notice against the TNA, telling people not to vote for the Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena, was put up at the polling station by UPFA supporters at around 8 am.

Mullaitivu 63 920 130 124 9 Mu/Kirebbanwewa Vidyalaya (No. 87) It was reported to the CMEV that at 8.05 am a group of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporters and Civil Defence Force personnel who were in red t-shirts picked up voters along the route to the polling station. They were picked up by a private bus with no destination board bearing the license plate number HT 6173.

Bharathi Vidyalaya Visuvamadu, Hall 2 (No. 54) CMEV received a report of an army officer standing outside the polling station intimidating voters.

It was also reported to the CMEV that small campaign cards containing Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena’s symbol were thrown around at the above polling station (No. 54) by New Democrat- ic Front party supporters.

Othiyamalai Government Tamil Mixed School (No. 77) CMEV received a report that the Senior Presiding officer (SPO) in the polling station could observe the ballot papers being marked. After a complaint was made, the place of marking was moved, but it is still near the SPO, and he can still observe people casting their votes.

85 Mu/Puthukkudiyiriuppu Roman Catholic Vidyalaya (No. 36) CMEV received reports that pencils were being given out by the Senior Presiding Officer (SPO) to voters to mark ballot papers at the polling station.

Puthukkudiyiruppu Central College (No. 42) The CMEV monitor in Mullaitivu reported that model ballot papers marked in favour of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were distributed outside the polling station. About a 100 of these papers were found strewn on the ground. CMEV received photographic evidence of these model ballot papers.

Kottaikattiyakulam Government Tamil Mixed School (No. 31) CMEV received a report that UPFA posters were stacked on the wall of the polling station.

Puththuvettuvan Government Tamil Mixed School (No. 32) The CMEV monitor in Mullaitivu reported that at around 8 am on Elec- tion Day there was a large cutout of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa immediately outside the polling station.

Sirattikulam Government Tamil Mixed School (No.15) It was reported to CMEV that two green motorbikes that looked suspi- ciously like the bikes used by the Sri Lankan Army were parked outside the polling station for a long period of time. The army persons on the motorbikes spoke to the police officers at the polling station.

Vavuniya 109 705 134 128 3 V/Kandhapuram Vani Vidyalaya - Hall No.01 (No. 37) CMEV received a report that the Senior Presiding Officers at the above polling centres did not allow people who had temporary identification (approved by the Elections Commissioner) to vote.

CMEV received a report that a grenade was found at the Vavuniya Madhya Maha Vidyalaya grounds. The police and CMEV monitors confirmed that the grenade was successfully deactivated by the police at 4.25 pm.

86 Nelukkulam Kalaimagal Maha Vidyalaya, Halls 1, 2 and 3 (No. 32, 33 and 34) CMEV received a report that there was a grenade blast in very close proximity to the above polling station at around 2.30 pm. The grenade exploded 50 metres within the gate of the polling centre. The police took immediate action to calm the situation and no injuries were reported.

TOTAL 253 058 334 318 15 ANURADHAPURA DISTRICT Medawachchiya 81996 81 28 0 Horowpothana 81099 79 36 3 Kahatagasdigiliya Muslim Maha Vidyalaya (No. 45) CMEV was told that some employees of the Road Development Authority who arrived in a vehicle (bearing No 34-6503) belonging to the authority intimidated the voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa near the polling station.

Janasirigama Sri Subasadhaka Death Donation Society Hall (No. 64) CMEV was informed that five supporters of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) who were near the Nikawewa War Heroes’ Memorial Statue intimidated voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa.

A/Maha Gaswewa Vidyalaya, Getalawa (No. 67) CMEV was informed of leaflets supporting UPFA and NDF scattered around the area of the above polling station. Promotional flags were seen within 500 metres of the polling station.

Anuradhapura East 97576 87 10 0 Anuradhapura West 102691 98 34 0 Kalawewa 125162 117 77 3 Thammannegama Community Hall (No. 62) CMEV received a complaint that Minister Ajantha remained near the polling centre and urged voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Ma- hinda Rajapaksa.

87 Weheragala Buddhist Center, Weheragala (No. 54) CMEV received a complaint that the Vice President of Thalawa Pradeshiya Sabha T.M.R. Indika and about 10 other people remained near the polling station. They arrived at the location in two vehicles with the number plates KV-2682 and 62-1092 and about 10 other vehicles joined them.

Delnegama Vidyalaya (No. 72) It was reported to CMEV that campaign materials of both the UPFA and NDF were scattered in the area around the polling station.

Mihintale 64778 65 49 2 Narangallegama Vidyalaya (No. 53) CMEV was reported of an incident where A.H.M. Wimalasiri and several others were attacked by unidentified parties led by Minister S. M. Ranjith, Chief Minister (UPFA), and several of his followers who arrived adjacent to the polling centre in seven cars. The culprits were said to have batons and weapons. A.H.M. Wimalasiriri, who was wounded during this fight, was sent to Senapura Hospital.

Sri Siddhartha National School (No. 38) It was reported to CMEV that Thalawa Pradeshiya Sabha member Wasantha Bandara and with about 25 of his UPFA supporters threw firecrackers towards officials who were transporting the ballot boxes.

Kekirawa 83431 81 32 0 TOTAL 636733 608 266 8 POLONNARUWA DIS- TRICT Minneriya 83395 78 30 0 Medirigiriya 77505 73 42 0 Polonnaruwa 146225 136 99 7 Pihitiwewa Maha Vidyalaya, Nuwaragala (No. 12) CMEV was reported of an incident where seven vehicles with about 30 people inside belonging to Kinsey Nelson were parked outside the polling centre.

88 Sewanapitiya Maha Vidyalaya (No. 62) Six individuals who arrived at the polling station in a white defender plated PT-2367 and a black jeep 32 sri 0341 and left after a while. The CMEV monitor noticed that stickers of Deputy Ministers Siripala Gam- lath and Ranasinghe Sooriyaarachchi and Parliament Member Roshan Ranasinghe were on the vehicles and that the group did not go inside the polling station.

Further, it was observed that several people who were wearing blue T-shirts intimidated voters arriving at the polling station.

Vijaya parakrama Junior School, Kalukele (No. 19) It was reported to CMEV that at the polling station seven people were not allowed to vote because they did not have any verification documents.

Maduruoya Maha Vidyalaya (No. 25) UPFA supporters carried out a UPFA poster campaign near the polling centre between 8.30 am and 9 am. Damminna Primary School (No. 28) CMEV was reported of an incident where a few vehicles, allegedly belonging to Pradeshiya Sabha Member Roshan Ranasinghe, drove around the area near the polling centre.

Polonnaruwa Muslim Madya Maha Vidyalaya (No. 117) It was reported to CMEV that promotional leaflets were scattered near the polling station. TOTAL 307125 287 171 7 KANDY DISTRICT Galagedara 54214 50 27 0 Harispattuwa 157463 124 51 1 Bulugohothenna Zahira Muslim National School (No. 92, 93 and 94) and Akurana Muslim Balika Maha Vidyalaya (No. 95) CMEV was told that voters did not have privacy while voting at the polling centres listed above. 89 Pathadumbara 85375 66 47 3 Gomaraya Junior School, Gomaraya (No. 60) The CMEV monitor reported that UPFA posters were hung on the trees on the way to the polling station and the UPFA symbol was drawn on the road. This was witnessed between 10.45 am and 11.40 am.

Huluganga Muslim Vidyalaya, Huluganga Town (No. 66) CMEV received a complaint that NDF agents who represented Presi- dential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena were not allowed to remain at the polling centre.

Sri Bodhimalu Viharaya, Kalugala, Katugastota (No. 11) CMEV received a complaint that posters of Presidential Candidate Ma- hinda Rajapaksa had been pasted on houses neighbouring the polling station.

Ududummbara 58637 55 98 1 Ekamuthu Awamangalyadhara Society Building, Dunkolawatte (No. 51), and Preaching Hall of Sri Sandagal Viharaya, Batumulla (No. 52) CMEV received a complaint that a private bus (NB 8741) was used to transport voters to exercise their vote at the above polling centres.

Theldeniya 47685 44 38 0 Kundasale 94870 64 42 0 Hewaheta 69243 53 23 0 Senkadagala 81149 60 25 0 Mahanuwara 40020 30 30 1 Welikanda Municipal Community Centre (No. 14) CMEV was informed by the Kandy District Coordinator that a Senior Presiding Officer (SPO) at the Welikanda Passage polling station was observing where voters were marking their votes. When questioned by a monitor, the SPO said this was to see if voters were making mistakes while voting.

Yatinuwara 80420 65 44 1 Kirimetiyawatta Tamil Vidyalaya (No. 39) CMEV received a complaint that voters had not been issued with IDs by the Grama Sevaka until the day of the poll. Further, while issuing the IDs the Grama Sevaka attempted to influence voters.

90 Udunuwara 82298 65 40 2 Denu Al Manar National School (No. 30 and 31) CMEV was informed of people in Nil Balakaya T-shirts remaining in the vicinity of polling centres.

K/Jinarathana Junior School, Kotagaloluwa (No. 50) CMEV received a complaint regarding an incident where UPFA Organ- iser, Udunuwara and Minister of Higher Education S.B. Dissanayake rebuked the officers in charge at the polling centre, at around 1 pm, for influencing the voters, while casting their vote. Gampola 102219 77 39 2 Atabage Udagama Maha Vidyalaya (No. 39) A CMEV monitor reported that polling cards were stolen and voters were threatened at the polling station in Madagammedda at 8.35 am. Nawalapitiya 95567 72 52 2 Udugama Saranapala Vidyalaya (No. 31) The CMEV monitor reported that attempts were made by unidentified individuals, allegedly UPFA supporters, to grab voting cards at the above polling centre at 7.10 am. The CMEV monitor further reported an incident of voter intimidation at the polling centre.

Weliganga Community Centre (No. 39) CMEV was reported of an incident where a police officer, along with several voters, put illegal votes into the ballot boxes. Further, these individuals allegedly consumed liquor soon after the above incident near the vicinity of the polling station. TOTAL 1049160 825 556 13 NUWARAELIYA DIS- TRICT Nuwaraeliya - Maskeliya 302836 213 139 6 Pathana Government Sinhala School (No. 14) CMEV received a complaint that name cards displaying Presidential Candidate Mahainda Rajapaksa were scattered in Pathana Junction, Hatton. St. Maris Vidyalaya, Bogawantalawa, Hall 2 (No. 161) The CMEV monitor observed that the Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC) office, located within 100 metres of the above polling centre, served alcohol to voters at about 2 pm. Intoxicated voters later caused issues at the polling centre. 91 St Maris Vidyalaya, Bogawantalawa, Hall 1 (No. 159) CMEV monitor reported that representatives of CWC (Ceylon Work- ers’ Congress) engaged in election propaganda near the polling station.

CMEV was further reported around 10.00 am of an incident where a group of about 500 individuals marched through the streets asking passersby to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa near the polling centre.

Kingkora Tamil Vidyalaya (No. 197), and Gawaravila Tamil Maha Vidya- laya, Hall 2 (No. 199) CMEV was informed of an incident where Mothers and Daughters of Lanka (MDL) monitors were threatened by Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC) associates with statements such as “we will take care of things tomorrow” (“heta api balagannam”), near the polling centres at around 3.35 pm.

CMEV was told cutouts of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were displayed near the Nuwara Eliya District Election office.

Kothmale 78068 73 38 0 Hanguranketha 71053 66 40 0 Walapane 82193 71 38 1 Walapane Community Hall (No. 21) CMEV received a complaint of fake ballot cards (with the symbol for Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena being substituted for a three wheeler), scattered on the streets within 500 metres of the polling centre. TOTAL 534150 423 255 7 MATALE DISTRICT Dambulla 131831 108 34 0 Laggala 70323 72 33 0 Matale 84225 62 39 1 Kaudupelella Government Junior School, Kaudupelella (No. 3) It was reported to CMEV that Rohana Dissanayake yelled at the Grama Sevaka in the Kaudupelella area, and which caused him to undergo car- diac arrest. This incident was confirmed by a police officer at the centre. 92 Rattota 93296 81 34 0 TOTAL 379675 323 140 1 GALLE DISTRICT Balapitiya 52852 50 48 0 Ambalangoda 75524 64 23 3 Sri Sunandarama Maha Viharaya (No. 6) “Samurdhi relief cards” were found being distributed to the poor outside the polling station in Paniyanduwa, Ambalangoda by Paniyanduwa 84 Grama Sevaka Niladhari Sujeeva Egodage at around 10.30 am.

G/Kahatapitiya Junior School, Polhunnawa (No. 30) CMEV received a report that a person named Alanchihewage Dana- siri was caught with 57 fake ballot papers near the polling station. He claimed to have found them in an area of empty land. He was remand- ed (police entry EIB 131/118). This occurred at 11.45 am.

G/Woodland Primary School , Gonapinuwala East (No. 41) Shan Wijayalal de Silva – Chief Minister of the Southern Province entered and stayed inside the polling centre for over 10 minutes. When the Senior Presiding Officer asked him to leave, he presented a document claiming he had authorisation to be there at around 10 am.

Karandeniya 72527 61 35 1 Hippankanda Junior School (No. 11) CMEV received news about misconduct on the part of Government Minister and MP Mr Gunaratne Weerakoon. According to the report he grabbed the registered voters list from officials and handed it over to the SPO, saying that UNP was marked next to the names, although this was not so.

Benthara- Elpitiya 89500 72 45 3 Preaching Hall of Kaikawala Sri Sunandarama Viharasthanaya (No. 11) CMEV received reports of the distribution of UPFA leaflets in front of the polling station.

G/Kudagala Junior School (No. 46) It was reported to CMEV that the polling booth was not secure in the polling station and that the SPO could see votes being cast. 93 G/Batuwanhena Rathanasiri Royal College (No. 37) Leaflets with the symbol of the betel leaf were being distributed near the polling station by a group of UPFA supporters.

Hiniduma 100757 89 70 1 G/Nagoda Royal Maha Vidyalaya (No. 51) It was reported to CMEV that an individual video recorded voters casting their vote at the polling station. Baddegama 95641 83 42 2 G/Waduramba Central College (No. 41) CMEV received news of a man standing on top of a Bo tree threatening to hang himself unless Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa was re-elected. This incident took place in front of the polling station in Galle.

Mutual Provident Association Building, Walpola (No. 76) CMEV was told that voters had been given transportation by an unidentified van to the polling station.

Ratgama 78182 68 20 0 Galle 79685 64 40 2 Sri Paramananda Vihara (No. 17) The CMEV monitor reported that the right to privacy when voting was infringed in the polling station since polling station agents and officials were able to clearly see who people were casting their vote for.

Sri ParamanandaVihara (No. 16) At around 11.30 am CMEV monitor reported that one officer at center could see as to whom each voter was casting their votes and later he was seen informing that to the SPO.

Akmeemana 94175 77 33 1 Preaching Hall of Swetha Bimbarama Viharasthanaya , Bope (No. 23) CMEV received a report of UPFA supporters intimidating voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa at about 10.30 am near the polling station. Habaraduwa 80778 75 39 0 TOTAL 819666 703 395 13 94 MATARA DISTRICT Deniyaya 97610 62 17 0 Hakmana 91791 65 20 2 Keeripitiya Junior School (No. 49) CMEV received reports of the distribution of UPFA campaign material in the form of leaflets in front of the polling station.

Akuressa 93769 64 28 2 Nimalawa Junior School, Akuressa (No. 43) The right to privacy when voting was infringed on in a polling station since polling station officials were able to clearly see who people were casting their vote for.

Henegama Junior School, Akuressa (No. 40 and 41) It was reported to CMEV that that the polling booth was not secure in the polling station and that polling agents could see the votes being cast.

Kamburupitiya 81524 64 35 1 Batadola Purana Maha Viharaya of Puhulwella (No. 33) CMEV received a report that a person named Ajith was caught taking a picture of his ballot sheet with his mobile phone after he had marked it. The SPO of the polling station witnessed this and contacted the police to take necessary action.

Devinuwara 78690 63 35 4 Deeghawalukarama Maha Viharaya (No. 60) CMEV received a report of attempts to intimidate voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa near the polling station by UPFA supporters along with the Chairman, H.R Sanjaya, and the Depu- ty Chairman of Devinuwara Pradeshiya Sabha.

Further, it was reported that former Member of Parliament H.R. Piyasi- ri’s vehicle was found parked in the polling station in Dikwella, Matara at around 8 am.

Devinuwara Dapulusen Junior School (No. 5) CMEV received a report that about nine supporters of UPFA Provincial Council Minister Kanchana Wijeysekera intimidated voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Rajapaksa. 95 Jayawardhana Mudalindaramaya (No. 45) CMEV was informed at around 9am that leaflets in support of Presiden- tial Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were left at the polling station premises.

Matara 86984 61 47 1 Rohana Maha Vidyalaya (No. 34) With less than half an hour to go before polling stations closed, CMEV received a report of UPFA Provincial Council Minister Kanchana Wi- jeysekera having commissioned a three wheel driver called Kumara (YS- 7828) to bring in voters who had not yet voted in exchange for Rs 2000.

Weligama 93450 65 46 3 Arafa Primary School (No. 5) CMEV received a report in the morning that the Mayor of Weligama was found intimidating people in front of a pharmacy near the polling station in Weligama, Matara to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa. However, CMEV is unable to verify this.

Between 7.30 am and 8.30 am it was reported that UPFA supporters intimidated other voters at Arafa Primary School polling centre (No.5)

Warakapitiya Maha Vidyalaya (No. 53) It was reported to CMEV that Weligama Pradeshiya Sabha member Wal- pola Indarathana Thero and Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Mr Pushpa Ku- mara Battage along with UPFA supporters attacked former Pradeshiya Sabha member Ravindra Lankajeewa and Mr Sadaruwan near the polling station.

TOTAL 623818 444 228 13 HAMBANTOTA DIS- TRICT Mulkirigala 100711 85 50 0 Beliatta 78234 75 42 1 Sri Sunandarama Viharaya Hall (No. 43 and 44) CMEV received a complaint that a cab bearing the insignia of a betel was parked near the polling station. The vehicle was there from 7 am until the time this was reported - 9.40 am. 96 Tangalle 120148 102 38 0 Tissamaharama 163810 148 76 1 CMEV was told that a vehicle (license plate No. SP JP 5369) was campaigning for the UPFA candidate near polling centres numbered 83, 84 and 86 at 2.05 pm. TOTAL 462911 410 206 2 BADULLA DISTRICT Mahiyanganaya 85715 76 55 1 Gurumada Vidyalaya (No. 65) Vijith Wijayamuni Zoysa, UPFA Minister for Wildlife Resources Conservation from Monaragala District, complained to CMEV mobile monitors that he followed a vehicle bearing stickers of the UNP youth front which was travelling around campaigning in the Mahiyanganaya electorate. He said he followed the vehicle in order to make a complaint to the police, however he then accused the police of providing the vehicle with protection. Upon inquiry, the police denied the accusation. Viyaluwa 51295 49 29 1 Soranathota Primary School (No. 14) The CMEV monitor received information of a fake ballot paper with Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa already marked found on the road close to the polling centre.

Passara 62901 55 36 3 Mahadowa Sinhala Vidyalaya and Mahadowa Upper Tamil Vidyalaya (No. 29 and 55) CMEV received information of supporters of UPFA Passara organiser Vadivel Suresh distributing alcohol in areas close to polling stations in a vehicle bearing license plate number EP GP 8951 at around 8.40 am.

B/Elteb Estate No. 1 Tamil Vidyalaya, Elteb Estate (No. 21) CMEV received a report that UPFA supporters were instructing and influencing voters near the polling station on Madolsima Road at 10.50 am.

Medawelagama Maha Vidyalaya (No. 19) CMEV received a report that supporters of the UPFA were transporting voters at around 10.45 am to the polling station. The license plate of the vehicle was identified as UP JK 8894 and was managed by former Pro- vincial Council Minister Wijeratne of the Passara Provincial Council. 97 Badulla 55185 42 36 3 CMEV received information of large posters of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa displayed on the notice board close to Wills Park Sports Ground in the Badulla electorate of the Badulla District on Elec- tion Day.

Thelbedda Estate 1 Tamil Vidyalaya (No. 8) Supporters of UPFA Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva were reportedly canvassing voters at around 12.45 pm dressed in blue in the Thelbed- dawatta Estate No. 1 section. The same group pasted posters of Presi- dential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa around the area. They furthermore distributed alcohol to the plantation community in the area.

Kendagolla Navodya Vidyalaya (No. 18 and 19) CMEV received information of large cutouts of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa and UPFA Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva inside the premises of the polling station. No steps had been taken as at 1 pm to remove these cutouts.

Hali -Ela 69909 57 38 1 Densil Kobbekaduwa Maha Vidyalaya (No. 27) CMEV and PAFFREL mobile monitors were denied access to monitor the polling station by the SPO. The monitors observed that the polling station was very inefficient with a large number of persons (approximately 70) in line waiting to cast their vote. At 2.30 pm, there was a fear that they may not be able to cast their vote by the time polls closed at 4 pm.

Uva - Paranagama 62689 51 35 0 Welimada 74436 61 38 1 Hinnarangolla Maha Vidyalaya (No. 53) It was reported to CMEV that an intoxicated individual ripped his ballot card after he marked it and the SPO gave him a second card to cast his vote.

Bandarawela 83147 65 65 1 Karandagolla Primary School (No. 55) CMEV received information of supporters of the UPFA urging people to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa in the polling station at around 12.40 pm. 98 Haputale 65209 59 45 1 Haputale Municipal Council Hall (No. 1) The Haputale Municipal Council opposition leader from the UNP and the Mayor from the UPFA were both involved in urging voters on who to cast their votes for when they arrived at the polling station at around 2 pm.

TOTAL 620486 515 507 12 MONARAGALA DIS- TRICT Bibila 83003 98 81 1 Wegama Junior School (No. 22) Posters of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were displayed on the front of a house opposite the polling station in the Bibila electorate in Monaragala District.

Monaragala 107678 114 94 4 Pallewela Junior School (No.5) CMEV received information of chits containing the name of Presiden- tial Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa and the betel leaf symbol scattered around the polling station at around 7.30 am.

Buddama Maha Vidyalaya (No. 3) CMEV received information of UPFA supporters distributing chits carrying a cross against the betel leaf symbol inside the polling station. Al- though the police were alerted to the incident a few times, this activity was still ongoing at 10 am.

Mahakalugolla Junior School (No. 21 and 22) CMEV received information that UPFA supporters were being transported in a bus bearing license plate number UP NB 4094 around 11.30 am.

Siyambalanduwa Maha Vidyalaya, Hall 2 (No. 19) CMEV received information that UPFA Minister Sumedha G. Jayasena arrived at the polling station and reproached and interrupted the work of the polling centre agent of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapak- sa of Our National Front at approximately 12 pm.

99 Wellawaya 149116 139 70 11 Sellakatharagama Maha Vidyalaya (No. 45 and 46) CMEV received information of UPFA supporters influencing voters not to vote for Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena, outside the polling centre at around 8.45 am.

CMEV received information that blue coloured flags and posters of Pres- idential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa had been used to decorate each lamp post on both sides of the road from Weherayaya to Thanamalwila in Wellawaya electorate.

Detagamuwa Junior School (No. 43 and 44) CMEV received information of Mr T.G. Shantha, UPFA Vice President of the Katharagama Pradeshiya Sabha, influencing voters to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa, close to the polling station at around 9.45 am.

Pelwatta Navodya Maha Vidyalaya (No. 22) CMEV received information of approximately 15 UPFA supporters gathered outside the polling station at around 11.15 am.

Katharagama Janadhipathi National School (No. 42) CMEV was informed that the SPO of the polling station was able to see the votes cast due to the positioning of the polling booth.

Diyawara Village Community Hall (No. 48) CMEV received information that a large number of posters of Presiden- tial Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were being displayed at the junction at the turn off to the polling station.

Sellakatharagama Maha Vidyalaya (No. 45) Uva Province Chief Minister Shasheendra Rajapaksa held an interview for the media within the premises of the polling station. Approximately 50 individuals participated in the interview. The SPO claimed that he was inconvenienced by this interview.

100 CMEV received a complaint that a white defender and L200 cab were seen patrolling in the area near Katharagama Police Station for about 20 minutes. Both vehicles were known belong to Tangalle Pradeshiya Sabha.

CMEV also received information of posters of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa displayed on a metal fence that spans approximately 1km close to the Katharagama Kirivehera.

TOTAL 339797 351 245 16 BATTICALOA DIS- TRICT Kalkudah 105 056 97 82 03 CMEV was reported of an incident where an unidentified person on a bike handed out leaflets of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa with the betel leaf symbol in the town of Kiran, in Kalkudah, Batticaloa at 6.30 am.

Vaharai Maha Vidyalaya (No. 91) A report was received by CMEV that small cards bearing Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa’s face were distributed at around 8 am in front of the polling station.

According to reports from the CMEV monitor in Batticaloa, Mr Nazzer of Kalkudah electorate received SMS messages from two unknown numbers, 0714769535 and 0770251602, telling him not to vote for Presiden- tial Candidate Maithripala Sirisena.

Batticaloa 172 499 165 121 05 Sri Mamangeswara Vidyalaya Hall 1 (No.76 and 78) CMEV received a report that cards bearing the betel leaf symbol were strewn visibly in front of many polling stations at about 8.30 am.

The CMEV monitor in Batticaloa reported that five individuals standing outside the Siththarandi Kalikovil were campaigning on behalf of Presi- dential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa to the locals of that area.

101 Eachanthivu Ramakrishna Mission Tamil Vidyalaya (No. 105) The CMEV monitor in Batticaloa reported that individuals outside the polling station were seen instructing loudly, within hearing of all the women present, to vote for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa. Shivananda Vidyalaya (No. 47) CMEV received a report from an individual called Mrs Mohana claiming that UPFA supporters threatened her son, P. Rameshan, because he was a supporter of Presidential Candidate Maithripala Sirisena. This took place at the polling station around 1 pm.

Millath Mahaleer Vidyalaya, Kattankudy (No. 140) The CMEV monitor in the area reported that supporters of Minister Hizbullah who came with him were seen campaigning for Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa outside the polling station while Minister Hizbullah was casting his vote. Paddirippu 87 612 100 70 0 TOTAL 365 167 362 273 8 DIGAMADULLA DIS- TRICT Ampara 161 999 160 120 03 Salpitigama Maha Vidyalaya (No. 24) CMEV received a report that at around 9 am small cards bearing Pres- idential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa’s photograph and the betel leaf symbol were distributed on the road that leads to the polling station.

Lathpadura Maha Vidyalaya (No. 19) and Uththalapura Maha Vidyalaya (No. 27) The CMEV monitor in Ampara reported that Dehiattakandiya Pradeshi- ya Sabha Chairman A.M.P.D. Wijerathna was seen transporting groups of people in his official vehicle to the polling stations.

Nagaswewa Maha Vidyalaya (No. 17) The CMEV monitor reported that cards with Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa’s face were being distributed to voters near the Na- gaswewa polling centre. 102 Sammanthurai 80 357 87 76 03 CMEV received a complaint at 4 am from a government official, Mr Amila Sampath, who is a supporter of the National Democratic Front (NDF) that leaflets in favour of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapaksa were being handed out and being put up in public places, especially the roads, in Sammanthurai, Ampara. This was being done in the name of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC). CMEV has received a copy of these leaflets.

Another complaint was made that National Congress Minister A.L.M. Athaullah’s supporters assaulted and threatened a Sri Lanka Muslim Congress member, Mr Thalha in Akkaraipattu, Ampara. Mr Thalha made a police complaint.

Akkaraipattu Muslim Central College Primary Section, Hall 1 and 2 (No. 75 and 76) and Akkaraipattu Muslim Central College Hall 1 and 2 (No. 78 and 79) The Municipal Council Mayor of Akkaraipattu, Ampara, Digamadulla, Mr Ahamed Zackie Athaullah, entered four polling centres with his supporters. They walked in, and stayed at the centres for around 10 minutes.

Kalmunai 71 254 66 45 0 Pottuvil 152 147 151 82 01 Thambaddai Govt. Tamil Maha Vidyalaya, Thambaddai (No. 64) The CMEV monitor in Pottuvil reported complaints of two men standing behind voters and watching them as they cast their vote. The CMEV monitor made a complaint to the Senior Presiding Officer (SPO).

TOTAL 465 757 464 323 07 TRINCOMALEE DIS- TRICT Seruvila 74 070 90 80 04 Vendarsanpura Maha Vidyalaya (No. 47) CMEV received a report that voters were confused due to two queues which had formed at the polling station. This reportedly made it diffi- cult for them to vote.

103 CMEV received a report that there were cards and chits bearing photos and symbols, and some bearing only the symbols of both main candidates, Presidential Candidates Mahinda Rajapaksa and Maithripala Sirisena, placed at the 91st Junction in Seruvila from 6.45 am to 7 am. CMEV received a report that the Chairman of the Padavi Sri Pura Pradeshiya Sabha had been distributing cards with Presidential Candi- date Mahinda Rajapaksa’s photograph on all the main roads in Padavi Sri Pura. Parakkramabahu Maha Vidyalaya (No. 87) The CMEV monitor at the centre was refused information by the Senior Presiding Officer. The SPO told the CMEV monitor that he was not bound to give information to ‘observers’. The monitor also observed United People’s Freedom Alliance supporters providing transportation for voters in two vehicles.

Trincomalee 86 978 97 71 02 Al-Hamra Muslim Maha Vidyalayam, Irakkakandy (No. 75) The CMEV monitor reported that from 7 am onwards model ballot papers marked in favour of Presidential Candidate Mahinda Rajapak- sa were being handed out to voters within 500 metres of the polling station.

Selvanayagapuram Hindu Maha Vidyalayam, Hall 2 (No. 38) The CMEV monitor in Trincomalee reported that the polling agents at the centre complained to him that the ballot box did not have the required sticker.

Muttur 95 804 98 108 03 St. Anthony’s MahaVidyalayam, Muttur (No. 10) A CMEV mobile monitor reported that a lady, who had a temporary ID issued by the Elections Commissioner, was rejected by the Senior Pre- siding Officer at the polling centre at 9.45 am. She was told that ID could not be accepted because the Grama Niladhari was not at the centre.

CMEV monitor reported that Mr Johnson was seen issuing announce- ments and distributing leaflets, instructing people not to vote in the Pal- aththoppur area, around 1.00 pm. 104 CMEV has received a report that the Grama Niladhari of Thoppur – East, Muttur, took ID cards of five individuals the day before the election at 6.30 pm, claiming that he would grant them a samurdhi donation. When they had requested their ID cards on election day, in order to vote, he had said that he had lost them. Therefore, these five individuals were unable to vote.

TOTAL 256 852 285 259 09 Grand Total 15,044,490 12,314 6974 222

105 Election Day Violations Table I

Alleged Perpetrators of Election Day Offences by Area Date:08/02/2015

UPFA-MR NDF-CC

AREA/PARTY TOTAL JSP SLP FSP PNF SEP SNF UPF USP ONF NSU PNG EOR DNM ELPP NSSP INDI 1 INDI 2 CMEV PA CP ELMSP NC POLICE OWORS JVP NFF DPF NDF UNP NUA MEP CWC SLFP LSSP DVJP UPFA EPDP UCPF SLMP ACMC JHU-CC JHU-MR ITAK-CC UNP- MR SLFP-CC SLMC-CC SLMC-MR

Western Colombo 4 9 13 Gampaha 13 1 4 18 Kalutara 8 1 1 2 12 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Western) 25 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 0 0 43 Central Kandy 4 1 8 13 Matale 1 1 Nuwara Eliya 1 4 2 7 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Central) 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 10 0 0 21 North Western Kurunegala 4 3 7 Puttalam 8 4 12 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Nor-West) 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 19 North Central Anuradhapura 8 8 Polonnaruwa 5 2 7 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Nor-Cen.) 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 15 Southern Galle 4 9 13 Hambantota 1 1 2 Matara 8 5 13 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Southern) 12 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 15 0 0 28 Uva Badulla 11 1 12 Monaragala 14 2 16 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Uva) 25 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 28 Sabaragamuwa Ratnapura 7 1 4 12 Kegalle 3 2 5 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Sabara) 10 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 17 Northern Jaffna 5 1 2 4 12 Vanni 5 1 1 8 15 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 Sub Total (Northern) 11 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 12 0 0 27 Eastern Batticaloa 6 2 8 Trincomalee 1 8 9 Digamadulla 3 1 3 7 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Eastern) 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 0 24 123 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 GRAND TOTAL 129 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 83 0 0 222

106 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Election Day Violations Table II Alleged Election Day Offences by Party Date:08/02/2015

Major Incidents Minor Incidents Remarks

Major Minor GRAND Perpetrators Hurt

Arson (Total) (Total) TOTAL Threat Others Bribery Murder Assault Related Related Related Robbery Affected Mischief ID Issues ID INK Issue INK Threat & Threat Abduction Resources Systematic Small Scale Scale Small Intimidation Voter Related Related Voter Grievous Hurt Polling Centre Ballot Stuffing Impersonation Impersonation Impersonation Misuse of State Election Official Election Monitor Election Offence Intimid. Presense Firearms Involved Firearms Ballot Box Related Attempted Murder Damage to Property Seizing Polling Cards Attempted Stuffing & Polling Agent Related

UPFA 4 2 1 3 39 1 2 52 6 65 71 123 PA 0 0 0 SLFP 0 0 0 NFF 0 0 0 JHU-MR 0 0 0 CP 0 0 0

UPFA-MR LSSP 0 0 0 MEP 0 0 0 EPDP 1 1 54 0 75 1 NUA 0 0 0 NC 1 1 0 1 UNP-MR 0 0 0 CWC 0 1 3 4 4 ACMC 0 0 0 SLMC-MR 0 0 0 DVJP 0 0 0 SLMP 0 0 0 UNP 1 1 1 1 2 JVP 0 0 0 SLMC-CC 0 0

NDF-CC 0 DPF 0 0 0 SLFP-CC 0 1 0 7 0 NDF 0 6 6 6 JHU-CC 0 0 0 ITAK-CC 0 0 0 UCPF 0 0 0 JSP 0 0 0 OWORS 0 0 0 SEP 0 0 0 USP 0 0 0 ELMSP 0 0 0 SNF 0 0 0 UPF 0 0 0 FSP 0 0 0 SLP 0 0 0 NSSP 0 0 0 DNM 0 0 0 ONF 0 0 0 PNF 0 0 0 NSU 0 0 0 ELPP 0 0 0 INDI 1 0 0 0 INDI 2 0 0 0 POLICE 1 1 0 1 PNG 1 4 1 4 3 5 1 1 16 8 44 1 6 33 40 84 1 CMEV 0 0 0 EOR 0 0 0

TOTAL 0 0 0 0 6 6 0 0 0 1 1 4 3 6 1 1 19 0 49 1 0 0 0 2 100 0 8 6 108 0 122 222 1 0 107 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Election Day Violations Table III

Geographic Spread of Election Day Offences by Type Date:08/02/2015

Major Incidents Minor Incidents Remarks

Major Minor Total No AREA / OFFENCE Hurt

Cards Arson (Total) (Total) of Incidents Threat Others Bribery Murder Assault Related Related Related Related Robbery Affected Property Mischief ID Issues INK Issue Threat & Stuffing & Abduction Resources Attempted Damage to Systematic Small Scale Scale Small Intimidation Polling Agent Agent Polling Voter Related Related Voter Grievous Hurt Grievous Ballot Stuffing Ballot Centre Polling Impersonation Impersonation Impersonation Seizing Polling Polling Seizing Misuse of State Election Official Election Monitor Monitor Election Election Offence Election Intimid. Presense Firearms Involved Ballot Box Related Box Ballot Attempted Murder Attempted Western Colombo 1 1 1 1 2 6 1 6 7 13 Gampaha 2 1 2 6 1 1 13 1 4 5 18 Kalutara 1 4 5 1 6 7 12 Sub Total (Western) 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 3 0 12 1 0 0 0 1 24 0 1 2 16 0 19 43 0 0 Central Kandy 1 1 3 1 2 1 9 1 3 4 13 Matale 0 1 1 1 Nuwara Eliya 0 1 6 7 7 Sub Total (Central) 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 2 1 9 0 12 21 0 0 North Western Kurunegala 1 1 6 6 7 Puttalam 1 1 2 7 11 1 1 12 Sub Total (Nor-West) 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 12 0 0 0 7 0 7 19 0 0 North Central Anuradapura 1 5 6 2 2 8 Polonnaruwa 3 3 4 4 7 Sub Total (Nor-Cen.) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 6 0 6 15 0 0 Southern Galle 1 3 3 7 6 6 13 Hambantota 0 2 2 2 Matara 1 1 3 2 1 8 5 5 13 Sub Total (Southern) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 6 0 5 0 0 0 0 1 15 0 0 0 13 0 13 28 0 0 Uva Badulla 1 1 2 4 8 8 12 Monaragala 1 2 3 3 10 13 16 Sub Total (Uva) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 3 0 18 0 21 28 0 0 Sabaragamuwa Ratnapura 1 2 3 9 9 12 Kegalle 1 1 2 3 3 5 Sub Total (Sabara) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 12 0 12 17 0 0 Northern Jaffna 1 1 2 4 1 7 8 12 1 Vanni 2 1 4 7 1 7 8 15 Sub Total (Northern) 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 6 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 1 1 14 0 16 27 1 0 Eastern Batticaloa 2 2 1 5 6 8 Trincomalee 1 1 1 3 2 4 6 9 Digamadulla 1 1 1 3 4 4 7 Sub Total (Eastern) 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 1 2 13 0 16 24 0 0 GRAND TOTAL 0 0 0 0 6 5 1 0 0 0 2 4 3 6 1 1 19 0 49 1 0 0 0 2 100 0 8 6 108 0 122 222 1 0

108 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Election Day Violations Table IV Party Affiliations of Perpetrators vs. Complainants of Election Day Offences Date:08/02/2015

UPFA-MR NDF-CC

COM.by PARTY/ Against PARTY TOTAL JSP FSP SLP SNF PNF UPF SEP USP ONF NSU PNG EOR DNM ELPP NSSP INDI 1 INDI 2 CMEV PA ELMSP CP NC POLICE OWORS JVP DPF NFF NDF UNP NUA MEP CWC SLFP DVJP LSSP UCPF UPFA EPDP SLMP ACMC JHU-CC JHU-MR ITAK-CC UNP- MR SLFP-CC SLMC-CC SLMC-MR

Complaints by UPFA against 1 1 United Peoples' Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Complaints by PA against 0 Peoples Alliance (PA) Complaints by SLFP against 0 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Complaints by NFF against 0 National Freedom Front (NFF) Complaints by JHU-MR against 0 Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU-MR) Complaints by CP against 0 Sri Lanka Communist Party (CP) Complaints by LSSP against 0 Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) UPFA-MR Complaints by MEP gainst 0 Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP) Complaints by EPDP against 1 1 2 Eelam Peoples Democratic Party (EPDP) Complaints by NUA against 0 National Unity Alliance (NUA) Complaints by NC against 0 National Congress (NC) Complaints by UNP-MR against 0 United National Party (UNP-MR) Complaints by CWC against 0 Ceylon Workers' Congress (CWC) Complaints by ACMC against 0 All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Complaints by SLMC-MR against 0 Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC-MR) Complaints by DVJP against 0 Desha Vimukthi Janatha Party (DVJP) Complaints by SLMP against 0 Sri Lanka Mahajana Pakshaya (SLMP) Complaints by UNP against 6 2 8 United National Party (UNP) Complaints by JVP against 0 People’s Liberation Front (JVP) Complaints by SLMC-CC against 0 Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC-CC) NDF-CC Complaints by DPF against 0 Democratic People's Front (DPF) Complaints by SLFP-CC against 0 14 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP-CC) Complaints by NDF against 4 2 6 New Democratic Front (NDF) Complaints by JHU-CC against 0 Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU-CC) Complaints by ITAK-CC against 0 Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK-CC) Complaints by UCPF against 0 Up-Country People's Front (UPF) Complaints by JSP against 0 Jana Setha Peramuna (JSP) Complaints by OWORS against 0 Okkoma Wasiyo Okkoma Rajawaru Sanvidanaya (OWORS) Complaints by SEP against 0 Socialist Equality Party (SEP) Complaints by USP against 0 United Socialist Party (USP) Complaints by ELMSP against 0 Eksath Lanka Maha Sabha Pakshaya (ELMSP) Complaints by SNF against 0 Sri lanka National Front (SNF) Complaints by UPF against 0 United Peace Front (UPF) Complaints by FSP against 0 Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) Complaints by SLP against 0 Sri Lanka Labour Party (SLP) Complaints by NSSP against 0 Nawa Sama Samaja Party (NSSP) Complaints by DNM against 0 Democratic National Movement (DNM) Complaints by ONF against 0 Our National Front (ONF) Complaints by PNF against 0 Patriotic National Front (PNF) Complaints by NSU against 0 Nawa Sihala Urumaya (NSU) Complaints by ELPP against 0 Eksath Lanka Podujana Pakshaya (ELPP) Complaints by INDI 1 against 0 Independent 1 (INDI) Complaints by INDI 2 against 0 Independent 2 (IND2) Complaints by POLICE against 0 Police Complaints by PNG against 7 1 1 9 Party Not Given (PNG) Complaints by CMEV against 105 1 1 4 2 5 1 78 197 Centre For Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) Complaints by EOR against 0 Election Official Related (EOR) 123 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 TOTAL 222 129 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 83 0 0 109 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence

Total Number of Incidents by Type (222)

Major Incidents Minor Incidents 55% 45%

Figure 01

Total Number of Incidents - A l leged Complaints Made by CMEV Monitors (197) Perpetrators by Party (222)

58% 88% 37% UPFA NDF-CC PNG 4%

7% 3% Police

2% Figure 02 Figure 03

110

Total Incidents by District (222)

18 18

16 16 15

14 13 13 13 13 Number of Incidents Incidents of Number 12 12 12 12 12 12

10 9 8 8 8 7 7 7 7

6 5

2 2 1

District

Figure 4 111 Major Incidents by Type (100)

Attempted Stuffing & Intimidatory Presense Impersonation 49% Murder 1% Attempted Murder Election Official Related Grievous Hurt 19% Hurt Assault INK Issue 1% Threat & Intimidation Misuse of State Resources Ballot Box Related Robbery 1% Ballot Stuffing Voter Related Systematic Impersonation 6% Small Scale Impersonation Seizing Polling Cards Polling Agent Related 3% Polling Agent Related Voter Related Seizing Polling Cards Ballot Box Related 4% INK Issue Small Scale Impersonation Election Official Related 1% Attempted Stuffing & Impersonation Intimidatory Presense Systematic Impersonation 1% Election Monitor Related Arson Threat & Intimidation Election Monitor Related Abduction Assault 6% Bribery 1% 6% 1%

Figure 05

112 Post-Election Monitoring ______Presidential Election - 2015

113 114 of the UPFA, and his son. A clash ensued between the two parties in which Manjula Prasanna received injuries to his head. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at Chilaw Base Hospital on the same day.

24/2, 28th Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. CMEV spoke to Chilaw Police OIC Kasthuriarachchi who said that the sus- Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. pects were arrested and investigations were underway. The three people who E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org received injuries during this clash underwent medical treatment at Chilaw Hospital. Presidential Election 2015 10th January – threat in Nikaweratiya, Kurunegala Post Election Communiqué 1 An unidentified gunman arrived at the residence of H.M. Priyanthi Hiruku- 12th January 2015 mari (a supporter of the National Democratic Front) at about 8.30 pm on 9th of January in Nikaweratiya and threatened her, telling her not to get involved CMEV continued to monitor the post-election situation and noted sever- in politics. She was with her husband when the assailant arrived and called al incidents reported in the period between the 9th and 12th of January. At 119. However no complaint was filed with the police. present CMEV has recorded six incidents, 11 of which were major, in the post-poll period. There was one casualty from post-poll violence and sever- 11th January – tar attack in Anuradhapura al instances of assault, threat and intimidation. CMEV notes that most of the victims in the incidents reported were from the UPFA. United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporter B.G. Premachandra’s house, located at 534 Hurulunikawewa, Galenbidunuwewa, was attacked by CMEV notes that President Maithripala Sirisena urged non‐violence in the- two unidentified motorcyclists using tar at around 10.30 pm. Mr Premarathne post-poll period but, unfortunately, the incidents reported involved the target- informed CMEV that he did not file a complaint with the police. ing of political opponents. Political partiesand their leaders must ensure that their members and supporters desist from violence and urge the authorities 11th January – tar attack in Anuradhapura to conduct independent investigations and hold to account perpetrators of violence. United People Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporter Noel Indika Premawan- sha’s house was attacked by an unidentified gang of people using tar at around Following are some of the incidents reported to CMEV: 1.30 am.

10th January – three injured, one dead in Puttalam According to Galenbidunuwewa Police Station, no complaint was made with them. CMEV was informed of a murder in Kumbutukuliya, Chilaw. Six UNP supporters, including Warnakulasuriya Manjula Prasanna, drove from Bangad- 11th January – tar attack in Anuradhapura eniya to Kumbutukuliya at about 1.50 pm and visited J.R. Sarath, a supporter United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporter B.K.D. Madushan’s house, 115 located at 530, Hurulunikawewa, Galenbidunuwewa, was attacked by an un- lunikawewa the day before this at around 10 am. According to the victims identified group of people using tar. United National Party (UNP) supporter Anura Bandara slapped them and According to the inquiry conducted by Galenbidunuwewa Police Station they shouted abuse. A police complaint was not filed. did not receive any complaints regarding this incident. 9th January – attack in Kandy 11th January – tar attack in Anuradhapura An incident in Yatinuwara where six people including Bobby Dassanay- CMEV received a report from Anuradhapura about a tar attack on K.G. Mal- ake broke into and entered the residence of K.V. S. Abeywickrama, a UPFA lika, who is a supporter of the UPFA, by unidentified people. A white van opposition leader, was reported to CMEV. The assailants entered the house (64-6463) parked in the garden was damaged in this attack along with the from the balcony, wounding the elder son Nipuna. A struggle ensued between front and side walls of the house. A police complaint was not filed. the two parties with injuries sustained to both of them. An eyewitness, Tampi- tiya Wanaratna Thero from Pilimathalawa Paranagala Temple in close proxim- 11th January – threats and attempts to hit a UPFA supporter in Anuradhapura ity to the house, confirmed the situation. A police complaint was lodged under CIB 5/2015. CMEV received a complaint that a supporter of the United National Party (UNP), Anura Bandara, threatened and attempted to hit UPFA supporter 8th January – UPFA Pradeshiya Sabha chairman’s house stoned in Trincomalee B. K. Danuka Madushan in front of the UNP Party office in Galenbidunuwewa. Galenbidunuwewa Police Station staff informed CMEV that no police com- CMEV received a report from Trincomalee stating that Pradeshiya Sabha plaint was made regarding this incident. Chairman Kapila Nuwan Athukorale’s residence was stoned, the perpetrators have not been identified however. 11th January – Maithripala Sirisena supporter attacked in Batticaloa CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free CMEV was told that a supporter of President Maithripala Sirisena was Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an in- attacked on the 10th of January. According to the victim, Mr Jeyarathnam a dependent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election group of seven Tamil Makkal Viduthalai Pulikal supporters cut his hand using related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human a sharp knife and threatened him, demanding to know who the supporters of Rights Documentation Centre. President Maithripala Sirisena were. All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org The victim filed a complaint (141/30) at Valaichchenai Police Station. Accord- ing to Valaichchenai Police Officer Mr M.B. Thibbettumuwe, this celebration of the newly appointed president ended in violence.

11th January – assault in Anuradhapura

CMEV was told that supporters of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) P. Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Dayapala and Wijerathne were assaulted in front of ‘Pilime Pansala’ in Huru- Co – Convenor 116 According to the CMEV monitor in Polonnaruwa, a group of people broke into the house of D.M. Leelawathi and K.M. Karunarathne, supporters of the New Democratic Front (NDF), at about 1.30 pm and attacked and wounded the residents including their two sons. The assailants arrived in motorcycles carrying metal rods and attacked the four people in the house. Both parties suffered inju- th 24/2, 28 Lane, Off Flower Road, Colombo 7. ries in the fight that ensued, and one of the sons of the victims, Sunil Premaratne Tel: 11 4062180-190, 011 2565304, Fax: 011 4714460, 0114503001. (aged 32), was rendered mute after severe head injuries. The victims were taken E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.cmev.org to Polonnaruwa Hospital while the assailants were taken to Welikanda Hospital

for treatment. A police complaint was filed by Mr Karunarathne at Welikanda Presidential Election 2015 Police Station under CIN 01 355/57. In the complaint he accused several people of the attack, namely Rukman, Chamara, Vikum, Manjula, Asanka and Chamin- Post Election Communiqué 2 da, who are known to be supporters of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA). According to the CMEV monitor, this incident followed a dispute that 14th January 2015 took place on the day before the Presidential Election (January 7th) when the At present CMEV has recorded a total of 45 incidents, with 27 categorised as victims had been engaged in campaign activities supporting the NDF and the major incidents and 18 as minor incidents, in the post-poll period. The rise in assailants confronted them. such incidents is worrying and CMEV urges the President and the law enforce- ment officers to take immediate action to prevent further incidents and to bring 11th January – UPFA supporter’s house burnt in Chilaw the perpetrators of those detailed below to book. It was reported to CMEV that the residence of United People’s Freedom Alli- ance (UPFA) supporter Uruliyagamage Bandula was burnt at about 10.30 pm by 13th January – petrol bomb attack in Galle United National Party (UNP) supporters led by UNP Pradeshiya Sabha member It was reported to CMEV that a house belonging to Minister Sajin Vass Gun- Lalith Ananda. A police complaint was filed at Madampe Police Station under awardena in Ambalangoda Thuduwa Mulla was attacked. According to the se- MCR 66/62. curity guard who was there at the time, three petrol bombs were thrown at the house at about 8.45 pm, which caused damage to the walls and windows of the 11th January – UPFA supporter’s house burnt in Rakwana house. A police complaint was filed at Ambalangoda Police Station in pages 78, Another incident of a house being set on fire was reported to CMEV, this time 79 and 80. Speaking to CMEV, Mr Gunawardena stated that this type of violence in the Rakwana area. The house belonged to United People’s Freedom Alliance must be stopped. (UPFA) supporter Lionel Fernando, who suspected supporters of the New Dem- ocratic Front (NDF) were responsible. He filed a complaint at Rakwana Police 12th January – residence stoned in Polonnaruwa Station under MOIB 138/62. CMEV received a complaint from the Polonnaruwa Electorate. The residence of D.R. Asanthika Munaweera, a supporter of the United People’s Freedom Al- 11th January – attack in Kandy liance (UPFA) living at 15/19C, Udawela Nawanagaraya, was stoned at about 2 CMEV received a complaint of an attack on Supun Pushpakumara, spokesper- am. According to the victim, she and her two children were at home at that time son for the United National Party (UNP), who was threatened by Pradeshiya and her mother’s house which was also nearby, was also stoned. Sabha member K. Rajanayaka (a supporter of the UNP). According to Mr Push- 11th January – attack in Polonnaruwa pa Kumara, the assailant and his followers arrived at his house in two cabs and 117 called out to him. When he went outside to meet them, they beat him and left 10th January – attack in Gampaha him in a nearby ditch. He filed a police complaint at Galaha Police Station under CMEV was informed of an attack in Ja-Ela when 10 to 12 vehicles were driven MOB 363/21. to the residence of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporter Sunith Gunasekara. According to the complaint, the people who arrived in the vehi- 11th January – UNP convoy attacked in Kandy cles assaulted his wife and mother. A police complaint was filed under CIB III An assault in Pathadumbara in Kandy to a convoy led by opposition leader of 107/135 at Ja-Ela Police Station and in it, the suspect is identified as United Na- the United National Party (UNP) A.G. Wijethunga was reported to CMEV. The tional Party (UNP) Urban Councillor Anju. convoy, consisting of one bus, 10 three-wheelers and four lorries, was leaving a meeting addressed by President Maithripala Sirisena when it was attacked. 10th January – threat and intimidation in Kandy According to Mr Wijethunga, about 30 supporters of the United People’s Free- It was reported to CMEV that Professor Sujith Nissanka’s life was threatened by dom Alliance (UPFA) Pradeshiya Sabha member U.S. Prasanna halted the bus four unidentified people who arrived in a double cab at Kandy Sokanchi Pri- and attacked it. Nine individuals were admitted to Jambugaspitiya Hospital and mary School at about 7.30 pm. Professor Nissanka had predicted the victory of later transferred to Peradeniya Hospital. A police complaint was filed under CIB President Maithripala Sirisena on a TV programme on Sirasa TV shortly before 11169/130. CMEV was informed by Wattegama Police Station that three sus- the incident. A police complaint was filed under 119 CIB 314/11. pects were arrested and that eight people were receiving treatment at Peradeniya Hospital. 9th January – threat and intimidation in Polonnaruwa It was reported to CMEV that the residence of A.G. Dilani Gaya Sanjiwani, a 11th January – UPFA office stoned in Medirigiriya, Polonnaruwa supporter of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA), was broken into by A CMEV monitor in Polonnaruwa reported an attack on a United People’s Free- a group of people who threatened the residents. A police complaint was filed dom Alliance (UPFA) office in Polonnaruwa by a group of unidentified people at Aralaganwila Police Station under EIB 251/53 and in it, a person known as at about 1 pm. Damages included the destroying of UPFA cutouts. Dharmarathna, a supporter of New Democratic Front (NDF) was named as a suspect. 11th January – residence stoned in Polonnaruwa A similar incident took place on the same day at the residence of Dugganaral- The stoning of a residence in Polonnaruwa by a group of unknown people at age Biso Manike, a supporter of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA). about 11.30 pm, was reported to CMEV. According to the resident Anuradha A group of unidentified people broke into the residence at about 9.45 pm and Sandamali, who is a supporter of the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA), caused damage to property including doors and windows. A police complaint the house was repeatedly pelted with stones which caused damage to it. A police was filed at Aralaganwila Police Station under EIB 258/55. complaint was not filed. It was reported to CMEV that three polling agents on duty at the Mountain 11th January – tar attack in Anuradhapura Temple Building Polling Station in Gampola were attacked by United People’s It was reported to CMEV that the residence of N.M. Nawaratna Banda, who is a Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Urban Councillor Dharshana Nayanatharanga and United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporter (No 530, Hurulu Nikawe- supporters. The three individuals S.G.H.M. Jayalal, S.L. Bandara and S. Prasad wa, Galenbindunu Wewa), was damaged by a tar attack by unknown people at Kumara were attacked soon after the ballot boxes were ready to be taken to the about 2 am. counting centres.

118 CMEV was formed in 1997 by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA), the Free Media Movement (FMM) and the Coalition Against Political Violence as an independent and non-partisan organisation to monitor the incidence of election related violence. Currently, CMEV is made up of CPA and INFORM Human Rights Documentation Centre.

All CMEV reports and communiqués can be accessed online at www.cmev.org

Dr. P. Saravanamuttu Co – Convenor

119 Post Election Violations Table I Alleged Perpetrators of Post-Election Offences by Area Date: [09/01/2015 - 16/01/2015]

UPFA-MR NDF-CC

AREA/PARTY TOTAL JSP FSP SLP SNF UPF SEP PNF USP ONF NSU PNG EOR DNM ELPP NSSP INDI 1 INDI 2 CMEV PA ELMSP CP NC POLICE OWORS NFF JVP DPF NDF NUA UNP MEP CWC SLFP LSSP DVJP UPFA UCPF EPDP SLMP ACMC JHU-CC JHU-MR ITAK-CC UNP- MR SLFP-CC SLMC-CC SLMC-MR

Western Colombo 0 Gampaha 1 1 1 3 Kalutara 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Western) 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 Central Kandy 3 3 1 1 8 Matale 1 1 Nuwara Eliya 1 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 Sub Total (Central) 4 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 10 North Western

Kurunegala 5 1 1 7 Puttalam 3 1 4 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Nor-Western) 8 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 11 North Central

Anuradhapura 1 2 1 5 9 Polonnaruwa 3 4 2 9 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 Sub Total (Nor-Central) 4 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 0 18 Southern

Galle 1 1 Hambantota 0 Matara 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Southern) 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 Uva Badulla 1 2 3 Monaragala 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Uva) 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 Sabaragamuwa

Ratnapura 1 1 Kegalle 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Sabara) 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 Northern

Jaffna 0 Vanni 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Sub Total (Northern) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Eastern

Batticaloa 1 1 Trincomalee 1 1 Digamadulla 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Sub Total (Eastern) 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 GRAND TOTAL 19 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 0 51 120 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Post Election Violations Table II Alleged Post-Election Offences by Party Date: [09/01/2015 - 16/01/2015]

Major Incidents Minor Incidents Remarks

Misuse of Damage Polling Cards Postal Attempted Grievous Threat & Major Election Minor GRAND Firearms Perpetrators Murder Hurt Assault State Robbery Arson Abduction to Bribery Mischief Threat Others Related Vote Murder Hurt Intimidation (Total) Offence (Total) TOTAL Involved Resources Property Incidents Related UPFA 1 3 8 1 1 14 1 4 5 19 PA 0 0 0 SLFP 0 0 0 NFF 0 0 0 JHU-MR 0 0 0 CP 0 0 0 UPFA-MR LSSP 0 0 0 MEP 0 0 0 EPDP 0 14 0 5 0 NUA 0 0 0 NC 0 0 0 UNP-MR 0 0 0 CWC 0 0 0 ACMC 0 0 0 SLMC-MR 0 0 0 DVJP 0 0 0 SLMP 0 0 0 UNP 1 5 2 1 9 1 1 10 JVP 0 0 0

NDF-CC SLMC-CC 0 0 0 DPF 0 0 0 SLFP-CC 0 13 0 6 0 NDF 2 1 1 4 2 3 5 9 JHU-CC 0 0 0 ITAK-CC 0 0 0 UCPF 0 0 0 JSP 0 0 0 OWORS 0 0 0 SEP 0 0 0 USP 0 0 0 ELMSP 0 0 0 SNF 0 0 0 UPF 0 0 0 FSP 0 0 0 SLP 0 0 0 NSSP 0 0 0 DNM 0 0 0 ONF 0 0 0 PNF 0 0 0 NSU 0 0 0 ELPP 0 0 0 INDI 1 0 0 0 INDI 2 0 0 0 POLICE 0 0 0 PNG 2 1 2 5 7 1 8 13 1 CMEV 0 0 0 EOR 0 0 0

TOTAL 1 0 6 0 14 5 0 0 3 0 3 0 32 10 9 0 0 19 51 1 0 0

121 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Post Election Violations Table III

Geographic Spread of Post-Election Offences by Type Date: [09/01/2015 - 16/01/2015]

Major Incidents Minor Incidents Remarks

Misuse of Damage Polling Cards Postal Total Attempted Grievous Threat & Major Election Minor Firearms Murder Hurt Assault State Robbery Arson Abduction to Bribery Mischief Threat Others No of Realated Vote AREA / OFFENCE (Total) (Total) Murder Hurt Intimidation Offence Incidents Involved Resources Property Incidents Realated

Western Colombo 0 0 0 Gampaha 1 1 1 3 0 3 Kalutara 0 0 0 Sub Total (Western) 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 Central Kandy 2 4 1 7 1 1 8 Matale 1 1 0 1 Nuwara Eliya 0 1 1 1 Sub Total (Central) 0 0 2 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 8 0 2 0 0 2 10 0 0 0 North Western Kurunegala 1 3 2 1 7 0 7 1 Puttalam 1 1 1 3 1 1 4 Sub Total (Nor-West) 1 0 1 0 4 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 10 0 1 0 0 1 11 1 0 0 North Central Anuradhapura 2 2 4 5 5 9 Polonnaruwa 1 1 2 4 3 7 9 Sub Total (Nor-Cen.) 0 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 9 3 0 0 12 18 0 0 0 Southern Galle 1 1 0 1 Hambantota 0 0 0 Matara 0 1 1 1 Sub Total (Southern) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 Uva Badulla 1 1 0 1 Monaragala 1 1 2 2 3 Sub Total (Uva) 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 2 4 0 0 0 Sabaragamuwa Ratnapura 1 1 0 1 Kegalle 0 0 0 Sub Total (Sabara) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Northern Jaffna 0 0 0 Vanni 0 0 0 Sub Total (Northern) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Eastern Batticaloa 1 1 0 1 Trincomalee 0 1 1 1 Digamadulla 0 0 0 Sub Total (Eastern) 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 GRAND TOTAL 1 0 6 0 14 5 0 0 3 0 3 0 32 10 9 0 0 19 51 1 0 0

122 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence Post Election Violations Table IV

Party Affiliations of Perpetrators vs. Complainants of Post-Election Offences Date: [09/01/2015 - 16/01/2015]

UPFA-MR NDF-CC

COM.by PARTY/ Against PARTY TOTAL JSP FSP SLP SEP SNF UPF PNF USP ONF NSU PNG EOR DNM ELPP NSSP INDI 2 INDI 1 CMEV PA ELMSP CP NC POLICE OWORS NFF JVP DPF NDF NUA UNP MEP CWC SLFP LSSP DVJP UPFA UCPF EPDP SLMP ACMC JHU-CC JHU-MR ITAK-CC UNP- MR SLFP-CC SLMC-CC SLMC-MR Complaints by UPFA against 1 5 6 12 24 United Peoples' Freedom Alliance (UPFA) Complaints by PA against 0 Peoples Alliance (PA) Complaints by SLFP against 0 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Complaints by NFF against 0 National Freedom Front (NFF) Complaints by JHU-MR against 0 Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU-MR) Complaints by CP against 0 Sri Lanka Communist Party (CP)

UPFA-MR Complaints by LSSP against 0 Lanka Sama Samaja Party (LSSP) Complaints by MEP gainst 0 Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP) Complaints by EPDP against 0 24 Eelam Peoples Democratic Party (EPDP) Complaints by NUA against 0 National Unity Alliance (NUA) Complaints by NC against 0 National Congress (NC) Complaints by UNP-MR against 0 United National Party (UNP-MR) Complaints by CWC against 0 Ceylon Workers' Congress (CWC) Complaints by ACMC against 0 All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Complaints by SLMC-MR against 0 Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC-MR) Complaints by DVJP against 0 Desha Vimukthi Janatha Party (DVJP) Complaints by SLMP against 0 Sri Lanka Mahajana Pakshaya (SLMP) Complaints by UNP against 9 3 12 United National Party (UNP) Complaints by JVP against 0 People’s Liberation Front (JVP) Complaints by against Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC-CC) NDF-MS SLMC-CC 0 Complaints by DPF against 0 Democratic People's Front (DPF) Complaints by SLFP-CC against 0 17 Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP-CC) Complaints by NDF against 5 5 New Democratic Front (NDF) Complaints by JHU-CC against 0 Jathika Hela Urumaya (JHU-CC) Complaints by ITAK-CC against 0 Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK-CC) Complaints by UCPF against 0 Up-Country People's Front (UPF) Complaints by JSP against 0 Jana Setha Peramuna (JSP) Complaints by OWORS against 0 Okkoma Wasiyo Okkoma Rajawaru Sanvidanaya (OWORS) Complaints by SEP against 0 Socialist Equality Party (SEP) Complaints by USP against 0 United Socialist Party (USP) Complaints by ELMSP against 0 Eksath Lanka Maha Sabha Pakshaya (ELMSP) Complaints by SNF against 0 Sri lanka National Front (SNF) Complaints by UPF against 0 United Peace Front (UPF) Complaints by FSP against 0 Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) Complaints by SLP against 0 Sri Lanka Labour Party (SLP) Complaints by NSSP against 0 Nawa Sama Samaja Party (NSSP) Complaints by DNM against 0 Democratic National Movement (DNM) Complaints by ONF against 0 Our National Front (ONF) Complaints by PNF against 0 Patriotic National Front (PNF) Complaints by NSU against 0 Nawa Sihala Urumaya (NSU) Complaints by ELPP against 0 Eksath Lanka Podujana Pakshaya (ELPP) Complaints by INDI 1 against 0 Independent 1 (INDI) Complaints by INDI 2 against 0 Independent 2 (IND2) Complaints by POLICE against 0 Police Complaints by PNG against 2 1 3 6 Party Not Given (PNG) Complaints by CMEV against 2 1 1 4 Centre For Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV) Complaints by EOR against 0 Election Official Related (EOR) 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 TOTAL 51 19 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 0

123 Source: Centre for Monitoring Election Violence

Total Number of Incidents by Type (51)

Major Incidents 63% Minor Incidents 37%

Figure 01

Major Incidents by Type (32) Minor Incidents b y Type (19)

Murder 44% Attempted Murder Hurt 47% Grievous Hurt Mischief 16% Assault Threat 53% 19% Threat & Intimidation Election Offence Misuse of State Resources Other 9% 3% Robbery 9% Arson Abduction Damage to Property Figure 02 Figure 03 124 Major Incidents-Alleged Perpetrators by Party (32)

PNG 20%

UPFA-MR 56% Total Number of Incidents-Alleged NDF-CC Perpetrators by Party (51) 24%

UPFA-MR Figure 05 PNG 37% 26% Minor Incidents-Alleged Perpetrators by

Party (19) NDF-CC 37% UPFA-MR 26%

PNG Figure 04 42%

NDF-CC 32%

Figure 06

125

Total Incidents by District (51)

9 9 9

8 8

7 7 Number of Incidents Incidents of Number

4 4

3 3 3

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Distric

Figure 07 126 A Comparison of Voter Turnout of Recent Three Elections

Presidential Election 2015 Presidential Election 2010 Presidential Election 2005

District Total No of votes Total Polled(%) Total No of votes Total Polled(%) Total No of votes Total Polled(%)

Colombo 1,586,598 1,311,694 (82.67%) 1,521,854 1,172,776(77.06%) 1,468,537 1,127,129 (76.75%) Gampaha 1,637,537 1,357,143 (82.88%) 1,474,464 1,174,608(79.66%) 1,364,180 1,101,001 (80.71%) Kalutara 897,349 760,365 (84.73%) 813,233 658,790(81.01%) 764,305 622,377 (81.43%) Kandy 1,049,160 866,901 (82.63%) 970,456 759,486(78.26%) 907,038 722,437 (79.65%) Matale 379,675 312,675 (82.35%) 342,684 267,085(77.94%) 321,876 254,405 (76.66%) N'Eliya 534,150 434,095 (81.27%) 457,137 352,844(77.19%) 447,225 361,285 (80.78%) Kurunegala 1,266,443 1,050,909 (82.98%) 1,183,649 930,537(78.62%) 1,089,482 834,043 (76.55%) Puttalam 553,009 408,150 (73.81%) 495,575 346,999(70.02%) 450,057 311,194 (69.15%) Anuradhapura 636,733 529,133 (83.10%) 579,261 453,823(78.35%) 536,808 423,997 (78.98%) Polonnaruwa 307,125 257,786 (83.94%) 280,337 224,647(80.13%) 263,609 212,032 (80.43%) Galle 819,666 684,327 (83.49%) 761,815 611,386(80.25%) 732,289 600,008 (81.94%) Hambantota 462,911 389,427 (84.13%) 421,186 339,782(80.67%) 396,595 322,853 (81.41%) Matara 623,818 520,041 (83.36%) 578,858 454,954(78.60%) 562,987 455,799 (80.96%) Badulla 620,486 514,941 (82.99%) 574,814 452,377(78.70%) 533,163 433,424 (81.29%) Monaragala 339,797 284,565 (83.75%) 300,642 231,856(77.12%) 276,109 224,086 (81.16%) Ratnapura 810,082 687,740 (84.90%) 734,651 596,856(81.24%) 668,217 560,584 (83.89%) Kegalle 649,878 543,286 (83.60%) 613,938 483,568(78.76%) 583,282 473,568 (81.19%) Jaffna 529,239 350,789 (66.28%) 721,359 185,132(25.66%) 701,938 8,524 (1.21%) Vanni 253,058 183,641 (72.57%) 266,975 107,680(40.33%) 250,386 85,874 (34.30%) Batticaloa 365,167 259,166 (70.97%) 333,644 216,287(64.83%) 318,728 154,615 (48.51%) Trincomalee 256,852 197,161 (76.76%) 241,133 164,504(68.22%) 238,755 152,428 (63.84%) Digamadulla 465,757 360,442 (77.39%) 420,835 309,474(73.54%) 396,453 288,208 (72.70%) Total 15,044,490 12,264,377 (81.52%) 14,088,500 10,495,451(74.49%) 13,272,019 9,797,680 (73.82%)

127

Profile of Voter Turnout of Recent Elections

120.00%

100.00%

80.00%

60.00% PE:2015 PE:2010 PE:2005

40.00%

20.00%

0.00%

128 Some of incidents captured by CMEV monitors

A section of people who demonstrated against the attack to the stage prepared for a meeting of the common candidate Maithripala Sirisena, and truck which transported sound equipment for the meeting, by the supporters of the SLFP Organiser and MP of Galle, Nishantha Muthuhettigama, on 24th December, 2014 at Wadhuramba, Galle

SLTB buses which were sent from Kandavil, Point Pedro and Karainagar depots, for a UPFA election rally held in Mullaitive, on 12/12/2014

Attacked stage prepared for a meeting of the common candidate Maithripala Sirisena, and truck which transported sound equipment for the meeting, by the supporters of the SLFP An election procession conducted by Nil Balakaya in support of the Presidential Candidate Organiser and MP of Galle, Nishantha Muthuhettigama, at 6.55 am near the Wadhuramba Mahinda Rajapaksa, on 31st December 2014, near the UPFA party o ce near public bus stand in Baddegama on 24th December, 2014 Nupe Junction in Matara, which caused much congestion in the area.

129 Member of the Central Provincial Council, Channa Galappaththi and his personal assistant, Person who was grievously hurt, by being assaulted on his head with a bottle, who were assaulted while returning home after a meeting, which was organised to support at Aralaganwila in Polonnaruwa, on 03/01/2015 Maithripala Sirisena, at Galpaya in Nawalapitiya, on 30/12/2014

A supporter of the common opposition candidate, former opposition Urban Council leader M.M. Dalhan, who was attacked by UPFA People who were assaulted at one of the polling supporters at the rally which was held with the participation of former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and Provincial centres in Gampola, on the day of the Councillor Miss Hirunika Premachandra at Beruwala Town on 6th December 2014 Presidential Election

130 A group of Sinhalese resettled in Keviliyamaduwa village in Batticaloa who protested UNP HQ 'Sirikotha' which came under attack, following a clash between UNP supporters and that their voting rights should be ensured and were attacked by the Police at 6.30 pm members of the Federation of National Organisations who protested on 24th December 2014 on 19th December 2014, in front of Batticaloa police station.

131 Media conference during the pre-election period of the Presidential Election 2015 Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, Co-Convenor - CMEV, addressing the media on the ndings of pre-election period Seated (Right to left) - C. Manimaran (Field Coordinator), D.M. Dissanayake (Chief Coordinator), Dr. P. Saravanamuttu (Co-Convener - CMEV), Udaya Kalupathirana (Co-Convener - CMEV), Manjula Gajanayake (National Coordinator)

132 Some moments captured at the debrie ng session, conducted for the counting centre observers, deployed by CMEV, with the patronage of the Elections Commissioner Mr. Mahinda Deshapriya, on 18th January, 2015

133 Centre for Monitoring Election Violence (CMEV)’s #IVotedSL campaign citizens

134 Some Print & Electronic Media Links Related to CMEV Election Monitoring-Presidential Election 2015

30-Oct-14 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=115123

2-Nov-14 http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141102/business-times/economic-issues-cost-of-living-priority-concerns-among-most-sri-lankans-cpa- survey-shows-125303.html

2-Nov-14 http://www.colombopage.com/archive_14B/Nov30_1417345225CH.php

6-Nov-14 http://colombogazette.com/2014/11/06/over-160-new-complaints-in-mullaitivu/

9-Nov-14 http://slkdiaspo.hypotheses.org/3950

11-Nov-14 http://lankaherald.com/2014/11/11/happysrilankans/

21-Nov-14 http://newusnews.com/suddenly-sri-lanka-presidential-elections-become-a-real-contest/

21-Nov-14 http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/22/world/asia/sri-lanka-presidential-elections.html?emc=edit tnt_20141121&nlid=68542801&tntemail0=y&_r=1

11-Dec-14 http://digathanews.com/mrs-election-campaign-full-of-violation-of-election-laws/

13-Dec-14 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=115883

14-Dec-14 http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2014/12/14/eu-monitors-rejected/

18-Dec-14 http://srilankabrief.org/2014/12/online-survey-sri-lankas-presidential-election-2015-maithri-gets-76/

20-Dec-15 http://www.asianmirror.lk/news/item/5811-dr-pb-fl outed-election-laws-with-hudson-samarasinghe-s-help-unp/5811-dr-pb- fl outed-election-laws-with-hudson-samarasinghe-s-help-unp 28-Dec-14 http://dbsjeyaraj.com/dbsj/archives/36681

28-Dec-14 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=116774

135 28-Dec-14 http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2014/12/28/concerns-over-fl oods-on-polls/

28-Dec-14 http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141228/news/no-violence-at-postal-voting-but-polls-law-violations-say-election-monitors-128961.html

28-Dec-14 http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141228/news/police-allowing-attacks-on-opposition-watchdog-charges-128962.html

28-Dec-14 http://www.srilankamirror.com/news/item/1233-remove-politicians-armed-security-siritunga

28-Dec-14 http://www.sundaytimes.lk/150111/news/monitors-give-thumbs-up-for-peaceful-poll-130348.html http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2010/01/201012605433776307.html http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2010/01/2010126133311974709.html

29-Dec-14 http://lankaherald.com/2014/12/29/one-china-policy-stops-taiwanese-election-monitors/

29-Dec-14 http://www.colombopage.com/archive_14B/Dec30_1419881151CH.php

29-Dec-14 http://oneislandtwonationsblogspotcom.typepad.com/blog/2014/12/opposition-supporters-threatened-by-prime-minister-and-his- supporters.html

29-Dec-14 https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/beruwala-attack-cbk-to-take-legal-action-against-igp/

29-Dec-14 http://oneislandtwonationsblogspotcom.typepad.com/blog/2014/12/police-instructed-beruwala-opd-doctor-not-to-admit- casualties-of-the-opposition.html

30-Dec-14 http://srilankabrief.org/2014/12/election-violence-cmev-communique-8/

30-Dec-14 http://www.colombopage.com/archive_14B/Dec30_1419961473CH.php

30-Dec-14 http://www.dailymirror.lk/59999/manifestos-and-the-political-pulse 30-Dec-14 http://digathanews.com/opposition-candidates-election-offi ce-attacked-in-trincomalee/

30-Dec-14 http://www.ft .lk/2014/12/30/attacks-on-opposition-at-mahiyanganaya-and-kurunegala/

31-Dec-14 http://www.lankanexpats.com/the-contest/

136 1-Jan-15 http://lfn.lk/local-news/item/5180-07/5180-07

3-Jan-15 https://www.ceylontoday.lk/51-81572-news-detail-fabricated-research-reports-and-canards-the-calling-card-of-the-govt.html

3-Jan-15 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=117091

4-Jan-15 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=117061

4-Jan-15 http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2015/01/04/new03.asp

4-Jan-15 http://srilankabrief.org/2015/01/military-attempts-obtain-details-polling-centres-mullaitivu-cmev/

4-Jan-15 http://colombogazette.com/2015/01/05/two-election-offi cers-assaulted/

5-Jan-15 http://sinhala.asianmirror.lk/local-news/item/8649-2015-01-06-16-40-00

5-Jan-15 http://presidentialelection2015blogaddress.blogspot.com/2015/01/polls-monitors-express-concern.html

5-Jan-15 http://www.colombopage.com/archive_15A/Jan05_1420441590CH.php

5-Jan-15 http://www.newsrt.co.uk/news/violent-incidents-mount-as-sri-lanka-heads-to-presidential-poll-2882345.html

5-Jan-15 http://news24now.net/news/violent-incidents-mount-as-sri-lanka-heads-to-presidential-poll

5-Jan-15 http://in.reuters.com/article/2015/01/05/sri-lanka-politics-election-idINKBN0KE0XX20150105

5-Jan-15 http://www.theepori.com/ta/post/6636

5-Jan-15 http://infocolombo.blogspot.com/2015/01/military-seeks-details-of-polling.html

5-Jan-15 http://www.colombomirror.com/?p=1826

5-Jan-15 http://www.ft .lk/2015/01/05/forces-attempt-to-obtain-details-of-polling-centres-from-assistant-election-commissioner-cmev/

5-Jan-15 http://www.asiaeu.com/uk/fears-of-violence-as-polling-stations-open-in-sri-lanka-election-h137717.html

137 5-Jan-15 http://www.voanews.com/content/sri-lankas-president-faces-tough-election/2586004.html

6-Jan-15 http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/01/06/uk-sri-lanka-election-idUKKBN0KF1C720150106

6-Jan-15 http://www.srilankanelections.com/index.php?page_cat=news&page=details&code_title=472

6-Jan-15 http://www.lankadaily.com/latestnews/item/3808-2015-01-06-14-29-59

6-Jan-15 http://www.vivalanka.com/newspage/825204ai-cmev-concerned-military-intervention-voting

6-Jan-15 http://www.colombopage.com/archive_15A/Jan06_1420560500CH.php

6-Jan-15 http://lankaherald.com/2015/01/06/military-gathering-details-of-polling-centres/

6-Jan-15 http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=29303

6-Jan-15 http://www.colombopost.net/more-political-news/item/453-election-offi cers-assaulted

6-Jan-15 http://www.siasat.com/english/news/monitors-military-presence-may-deter-sri-lankan-voters

6-Jan-15 http://topnews-uk.com/top-news/sri-lankan-president-appears-to-lose-election-new-york-times

6-Jan-15 http://www.huffi ngtonpost.com/huff -wires/20150106/as--sri-lanka-election/?utm_hp_ref=world&ir=world

6-Jan-15 http://in.reuters.com/article/2015/01/06/sri-lanka-election-idINKBN0KF1FD20150106

6-Jan-15 http://www.worldbulletin.net/todays-news/152368/sri-lanka-ruling-party-accused-of-violating-election-rules

6-Jan-15 http://www.paff rel.com/posters/141219171222JOINT%20STATEMENT1.pdf

7-Jan-15 http://www.nation.lk/edition/component/k2/item/36984-cmev-expresses-concern-on-military-presence-in-north-during-election. html

7-Jan-15 http://www.ft .lk/2015/01/07/cmev-concerned-over-possible-military-intervention-in-voting/

138 7-Jan-15 http://www.sannasa.net/sinhala/?p=2973

7-Jan-15 http://sinhala.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=48497

7-Jan-15 https://sinhala.srilankamirror.com/news/item/1781-2015-01-07-18-45-22

7-Jan-15 http://www.onlanka.com/news/sri-lanka-monitor-accuses-ruling-party-of-violating-election-rules.html

7-Jan-15 http://www.ft .lk/2015/01/07/plundering-for-polls/

7-Jan-15 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=117278

7-Jan-15 http://ceylon-ananda.com/polls-monitors-express-concern/

7-Jan-15 http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/monitors-amnesty-call-for-violencefree-sri-lanka-polls/article6764329. ece?homepage=true

7-Jan-15 http://telegraph.lk/from-forbes-to-the-hindu-international-press-covers-sri-lankan-presidential-election/

7-Jan-15 http://www.uktamilnews.com/?p=8052

7-Jan-15 http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2015-01-06/china-push-for-indian-ocean-infl uence-at-risk-as-sri-lanka-votes.html

7-Jan-15 http://blogs.aljazeera.com/blog/asia/quiet-colombo-sri-lankan-election

7-Jan-15 http://www.dailymirror.lk/60529/ents-of-election-violence-cmev

7-Jan-15 http://www.joshnicholas.com/ivotedsl/

7-Jan-15 http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/01/07/us-sri-lanka-election-idUSKBN0KG1ZI20150107

7-Jan-15 http://srilankaoneislandtwonations.tumblr.com/post/107461792271/cmev-concerned-over-possible-military-intervention

7-Jan-15 http://srilankabrief.org/2015/01/presidential-election-2015-trends-concerns-election-violence-cmev/

139 7-Jan-15 http://www.businessinsider.com/r-violence-against-sri-lanka-opposition-must-stop-as-polls-loom-rights-body-2015-1

7-Jan-15 http://www.euronews.com/newswires/2871502-violence-against-sri-lanka-opposition-must-stop-as-polls-loom-rights-body/

7-Jan-15 http://www.srilankanelections.com/index.php?page_cat=news&page=details&code_title=472

7-Jan-15 http://www.bbc.co.uk/sinhala/sri_lanka/2015/01/150107_monitors_training

7-Jan-15 http://www.omantribune.com/index.php?page=news&id=181928&heading=Asia

7-Jan-15 http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2015/1/91690.html

7-Jan-15 http://www.businessweek.com/news/2015-01-06/why-sri-lankas-election-matters-for-china

8-Jan-15 http://www.dailymirror.lk/60665/cmev-interim-campaign-report

8-Jan-15 http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2015/1/91740_space.html

8-Jan-15 http://forum.lankaninvestor.com/t3625-topic

8-Jan-15 http://www.lankanewspapers.com/news/2015/1/91721.html

8-Jan-15 http://srilankabrief.org/tag/free-and-fair-election/

8-Jan-15 http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/jan/08/fears-of-violence-as-polling-stations-open-in-sri-lanka-elections

8-Jan-15 http://www.ft .lk/2015/01/08/china-push-for-indian-ocean-infl uence-at-risk-as-sri-lanka-votes/

8-Jan-15 http://www.kwwl.com/story/27798984/challenger-sirisena-elected-sri-lankas-new-president

8-Jan-15 http://omanobserver.om/sri-lanka-votes-in-tightest-election-in-decades/

8-Jan-15 http://en.africatime.com/tanzanie/db/sri-lanka-votes-tightest-election-decades

8-Jan-15 http://www.everestheraldonline.com/en/sri-lanka-votes-in-tightest-election-in-decades/

140 8-Jan-15 http://www.asiantribune.com/node/86188

8-Jan-15 http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/international/2015-01-07/reports-emerge-of-violence-commando-deployment-ahead-of-sri- lanka-presidential-election/1404733

8-Jan-15 http://shanghaidaily.com/article/article_xinhua.aspx?id=262522

8-Jan-15 http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/world/2015-01/08/content_19274941.htm

8-Jan-15 http://srilankabrief.org/2015/01/election-violence-presidential-election-day-communique-1-cmev/

8-Jan-15 http://www.bbc.co.uk/sinhala/sri_lanka/2015/01/150108_putlam_election_prasad

8-Jan-15 http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2014/03/16/oostory.asp?sid=20150108_02&imid=Votting-ends.JPG&dt=%5BJanuary%2008%20 2015%5D

8-Jan-15 http://www.southeastasiapost.com/index.php/sid/229210645

8-Jan-15 http://www.vivalanka.com/newspage/827175ai-polls-chief-reads-riot-act-rupavahini-sajith-crossover-story-polling-day

8-Jan-15 http://www.vivalanka.com/newspage/827179ai-praise-peaceful-poll

9-Jan-15 http://www.abc.net.au/pm/content/2015/s4160096.htm

9-Jan-15 http://www.ktuu.com/sri-lankan-president-loses-reelection-bid/30609472

9-Jan-15 http://edition.cnn.com/2015/01/09/intl_homepage1/sri-lanka-elections-result/index.html

9-Jan-15 http://www.kvia.com/election-day-sri-lanka-at-a-crossroads/30590970

9-Jan-15 http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/challenger-sirisena-elected-sri-lankas-president-28105197

9- Jan- 15 http://www.ipsnoticias.net/portuguese/2015/01/ultimas-noticias/sri-lanka-elege-o-bom-desconhecido-e-nao-o-mau-conhecido/

9- Jan- 15 http://www.globalissues.org/news/2015/01/09/20486

141 9- Jan- 15 http://www.newstoday.com.bd/?option=details&news_id=2400005&date=2015-01-14

9- Jan- 15 http://www.menafn.com/1094069097/Sri-Lanka-votes-in-presidential-polls

9- Jan- 15 http://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/colombo-collective/

9- Jan- 15 http://fj enews.com/6965/equality/your-guide-to-sri-lankas-2015-presidential-election/6965

9- Jan- 15 http://www.southasiamail.com/news.php?id=117667

9- Jan- 15 http://www.eias.org/asian-news-outlook/sirisena-topples-rajapaksa-sri-lanka-elections

9- Jan- 15 http://www.ipsnews.net/2015/01/sri-lankas-minorities-choose-unknown-angel-over-known-devil/

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11-Jan-15 http://www.sundaytimes.lk/150111/news/tna-meets-new-president-tomorrow-130436.html

12-Jan-15 http://telegraph.lk/news/cmev-and-paff rel-wants-the-president-to-depoliticize-public-services/

12-Jan-15 http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=117546

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12-Jan-15 http://www.bloomberg.com/video/sri-lanka-is-not-kicking-china-out-saravanamuttu-O315OSSeSxuAkLYTp7VoKw.html

13-Jan-15 http://srilankabrief.org/2015/01/sri-lanka-democracy-stood-upon-razors-edge/

14-Jan-15 http://dmanewsdesk.com/sri-lankan-election-an-observers-view/

142 14-Jan-15 http://dbsjeyaraj.com/dbsj/archives/37294

14-Jan-15 http://www.dailymirror.lk/61197/why-change-is-essential

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15-Jan-15 http://evilportentsomens.blogspot.com/2015/01/evil-portent-for-sri-lanka-to-be.html

15-Jan-15 http://lanciburuwa.blogspot.com/2015/01/story-of-seventh-presidential-election.html

16-Jan-15 http://www.ft .lk/category/columns/dharisha-bastians/

16-Jan-15 http://www.ceylontoday.lk/90-82369-news-detail-story-of-the-seventh-presidential-election.html

18-Jan-15 http://www.uktamilnews.com/?p=8476

18-Jan-15 http://www.sundaytimes.lk/150118/news/govt-takes-action-to-stop-political-vendettas-mainly-by-unp-131228.html

18-Jan-15 http://www.nation.lk/edition/news-features/item/37464-post-election-violence.html

24-Jan-15 http://asiasociety.org/blog/asia/asia-21-young-leader-sri-lanka-election-off ers-greater-hope-truth-and-justice

24-Jan-15 http://www.tamilguardian.com/article.asp?articleid=13550

25-Jan-15 http://www.gndem.org/Sri_Lanka_Members_Mobilize_Milestone_Election

25-Jan-15 http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2015/01/25/fi rst-step-of-a-long-journey/

26-Jan-15 http://www.ft .lk/2015/01/28/sri-lankas-media-needs-reform-can-new-president-sirisena-deliver/

27-Jan-15 http://www.colombomirror.com/?p=2231

28-Jan-15 http://www.jdslanka.org/index.php/news-features/politics-a-current-aff airs/512-hope-un-will-not-let-us-down-this-time-tna

28-Jan-15 http://newsfi rst.lk/english/2015/01/absolute-tragedy-legislation-never-utilized-citizenry-dr-paikiasothy-saravanamuttu/75343

143 ISBN 978-955-4746-37-4