International Election Observer Mission of South Asia declares:Not a single incident
Posted on September 24th, 2013

Sandasen Marasinghe Courtesy The Daily News

Election conducted in a commendable manner :

Monitors did not observe any malpractice :

Not a single negative incident was observed in any polling centre or counting centre during the Provincial Council elections, said the members of the International Election Observer Mission of the Forum of Election Management Bodies of South Asia headed by team leader, former Chief Elections Commissioner of India N. Gopalaswami.

Gopalaswami stated that the election was conducted in a commendable manner and they did not see any misconduct at any polling centre or counting centre. He said that though various persons complained and certain media reported various incidents, their representatives did not observe any major incident. The report on the observations was to be handed over to the Elections Commissioner last night (Monday). The mission made this observation at a press conference at the Galadari Hotel.

The mission consisted of 20 members including the team leader. Gopalaswami added that one incident regarding an attack on a candidate was noted.

However, irrespective of whatever complaints made by others and reports carried by certain media institutions, they did not have first hand experience of such incidents. Certain institutions made representations about such incidents as well.

Gopalaswami said that the mission also observed that some electronic media had misused media freedom.

He further said the election laws were implemented in an impressive manner at the election.

He also praised the role of the Elections Commissioner and his staff.

He also added that the knowledge of the Elections Commissioner-â„¢s staff and the public servants-â„¢ on the election procedure was commendable.

Gopalaswami added that the mission observed that the Elections Commissioner took further measures even to reduce the minimal possibility of malpractices and misconduct by shuffling the numerical order of the ballet boxes.

He also added that another commendable measure taken was to provide transport services to voters to and from the polling stations.

– See more at: http://www.dailynews.lk/local/not-one-incident#sthash.hMEnNY2I.dpuf

9 Responses to “International Election Observer Mission of South Asia declares:Not a single incident”

  1. Ananda-USA Says:

    Nice SPEECH, Mr. President …especially the statements

    It is disturbing to observe the growing trend in the international arena, of interference by some, in the
    internal matters of developing countries, in the guise of security, and guardians of human rights. Therefore,
    we continue to witness agitations the world over, leading to violence and forcing political change
    accompanied by turmoil.

    It is timely to contemplate whether such movements have led to better stability in these countries, or
    produced different results, due to inappropriate external factors. In fact, the positive outcomes envisaged by
    those responsible have not come to pass, but indeed contributed to making those countries unstable. Does
    this not erode the authority of the Security Council because of unilateral or group actions?

    This trend needs to be arrested, as it has now extended into areas, detrimental to the wellbein8 of
    populations. This turmoil results from attempts to impose a type of democracy, upon countries with
    significantly different cultures, values and history. The world needs no policing by a few States, particularly
    when the UN is mandated to ensure international security, through multilateral engagement. This
    engagement, to be complete in our time, must ensure protection of the human race against the flagrant abuse
    of modern science in such forms as nuclear and chemical weapons.

    But, it is Not ENOUGH! Fancy Speeches at the UN criticizing our Tormentors, cannot replace Firm Action at Home against the Separatists.

    BUT, the FACT REMAINS we Sri Lankans SCREWED OURSELVES holding Provincial Council Elections on September 21, 2013 and handing over CONTROL of the Northern Province to the Tiger Nominated Agents of the TNA even as they issued a Racist “Mein Kampf” of a Manifesto affirming their unwavering commitment to create a SEPARATE STATE of Eelam, placating India with the realization of her design to divide and render Sri Defenceless!

    Now that we have inserted a dagger into the heart of Mother Lanka, we will find that we have NOT EARNED ANY REPRIEVE from our Eelamist and Western Critics as they continue to twist the dagger with relish.

    Likewise, we will soon host the CHOGM, for which we sacrificed Sri Lanka’s Sovereignty by FAILING TO REVOKE the 13th Amendment, and will EARN NO SUPPORT for preserving the integrity of Sri Lanka. Instead, we will face a Litany of Criticisms and Foreign Demands to further Police of our Sovereign nation in support of its SEparatist anti-national enemies.

    Oh My God, WHAT have we DONE?
    ……………………………………..
    Statement by H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa

    President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
    During the General Debate of the 68th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations
    820 Second Avenue, End Floor, New York, NY 10017 * Te!: (2t2) 986-7040 o Fax: (212) 986-t838

    Mr. President, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

    I warmly congratulate Your Excellency John William Ashe, on the assumption of the Chair of the 68th
    Session of the UNGA, and also thank His Excellency Vuk JeremiE, for effective stewardship of the last Session.

    Mr. President,
    The UN has consistently ensured cooperation between States, and provided a universal platform for
    discussions on a range of issues, contentious or otherwise. It is imperative that we jealously protect and abide
    by, the principle of equal treatment of countries, which has been the very basis of this global organization. Be
    it economic or political issues, equality must form the bedrock of all international interaction.

    Reflecting on the work of the UN, matters of a political nature have overridden the most basic issues,
    which affect the underprivileged and marginalized, who dominate world society. The commitment to the
    Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) brought a real sense of optimism. The theme for this session is
    timely, as progress in MDGs could be evaluated with its deadline fast approaching.

    Appreciable progress has been made in the MDGs, with the results being uneven among and within
    countries. According to World Bank projections, by 2015, Sub Saharan Africa and Southern Asia will be home
    to approximately 40% of the developing world’s population, living in extreme poverty. This only diminishes
    the sense of our optimism. It is fitting for the UN system to examine the causes for the failure in improving
    the lot of the deprived.

    in the context of Sri Lanka, my vision has been to distribute the benefits of growth across all segments
    of the population and prevent inequalities, social exclusion and adverse environmental effects. Socio-
    economic achievements in my country are the results of people centric government policies.

    Mr. President,

    Despite contending with one of the most ruthless terrorist groups in the world, the 2004 tsunami and
    the global food, energy and financial crises, Sri Lanka’s attaining the MDGs is salutary. Statistics speak for
    themselves. Sri Lanka was ranked 92nd out of 287 countries in the Human Development Index in 2022.
    Absolute poverty in Sri Lanka declined to 6.5% in 2012 from 25.2%, over a period of five years, surpassing the
    MDG mid- term target.

    The goal of universal primary education will be easily achieved by 2015. The key dividend from this
    strong educational infrastructure has been a drastic reduction in the unemployment level. Sri Lanka’s
    accomplishments in healthcare include the infant mortality rate of 9.4 per EO00 live births, highlighted by
    UNICEF as a success story.

    The early recognition of the crucial role women play in political and socio-economic development,
    amply warrants Sri Lanka’s sense of pride with the world’s first elected woman Prime Minister, the late Mrs.
    Sirimavo Bandaranaike. Sri Lanka has been rated 16th in the World Gender Parity Index.

    Mr. President,

    Sri Lanka has mainstreamed youth in its post 2015 development agenda, and is at the forefront of
    advocating internationally the interests of youth. Sri Lanka will be hosting the Commonwealth Youth Forum
    2023, this November and the UN World Conference on Youth, in May 2014.

    I also call upon the United Nations to declare an International Skills day as recognition of skills
    development of youth, paving the way for reduced poverty. An innovative development has been the
    establishment of a Youth Parliament to sharpen the awareness of democracy and skills of the new
    generation and prepare them to assume leadership.

    It is of the foremost importance that Member states decide individually the means for achieving these
    MDGs. The unique socio-cultural practices and traditions of countries should be taken into account when
    designing these processes.

    Mr. President,

    The post 2015 Development Agenda needs to be an intergovernmental process, in line with the
    outcomes and agreed principles of Rio + 20. Centuries of growth in advanced economies have left little carbon
    space for the developing world, challenging their growth. The thin lines of balancing economic development
    and protection of the environment will remain a great challenge, in future development policy setting. It is
    therefore critical that developed countries honour their commitments and compensate damage to the
    environment, on the basis of common but differentiated responsibilities.

    Eradication of poverty must be the primary goal of the post 2015 Development Agenda, and promote
    accelerated economic growth in developing countries. Ensuring sustainable growth with social equity,
    demands a balanced approach towards development. High rates of investment, strengthening the quality of
    human capital, and technology transfers are crucial for sustainable growth.

    Mr. President,

    The mechanisms on financing and technology mandated by Rio + 20, need to be urgently
    implemented. The sustainable development financing strategy in its formulation, must seek to provide for
    enhanced and predictable financial support to developing countries. Sri Lanka supports the establishment of a
    Technology Facilitation Mechanism under the UN, recommended in the UNSG’s report. The mighty advocates
    of the rights based approaches, should also honour their international commitments relating to development
    financing.

    Calls for reforms in the current international financial institutions continue to be relevant. Their ad-
    hoc policies prove to be untenable in the long run. It is imperative for the international monetary and
    financial institutions, to give expression to the solid voice of the developing world. Also, those countries that
    are economically blessed must shed their practices of leveraging through these institutions. A comprehensive
    structural reform of the existing imperfect global economic order, needs to be fully addressed to reflect
    current realities.

    The world is in need of a fair international economic system to revitalize partnerships for
    development. This includes State and non-State actors and blue-chip companies, emerging as new partners.
    Moreover, “South-South Cooperation” is crucial due to the shift in economic power, which should be actively
    promoted to complement “North-South Cooperation”.

    Mr. President,

    It is disturbing to observe the growing trend in the international arena, of interference by some, in the
    internal matters of developing countries, in the guise of security, and guardians of human rights. Therefore,
    we continue to witness agitations the world over, leading to violence and forcing political change
    accompanied by turmoil.

    It is timely to contemplate whether such movements have led to better stability in these countries, or
    produced different results, due to inappropriate external factors. In fact, the positive outcomes envisaged by
    those responsible have not come to pass, but indeed contributed to making those countries unstable. Does
    this not erode the authority of the Security Council because of unilateral or group actions?

    This trend needs to be arrested, as it has now extended into areas, detrimental to the wellbein8 of
    populations. This turmoil results from attempts to impose a type of democracy, upon countries with
    significantly different cultures, values and history. The world needs no policing by a few States, particularly
    when the UN is mandated to ensure international security, through multilateral engagement. This
    engagement, to be complete in our time, must ensure protection of the human race against the flagrant abuse
    of modern science in such forms as nuclear and chemical weapons.

    Mr. President,

    Deepening uncertainties in the Middle East are disturbing. We eagerly await for Palestine and Israel
    to co-exist on the basis of pre – 1967 borders. Sri Lanka looks forward to welcoming Palestine as a full member
    of the UN.

    We salute the people of Africa in their efforts to achieve better living conditions and economic
    prosperity. Sri Lanka continues to demonstrate solidarity with the African people, in their pursuit of further
    socio-economic growth.

    Mr. President,

    Unilateral measures such as embargoes and economic sanctions, imposed on countries are disturbing.
    Such initiatives bring suffering not only to those specifically targeted but to a wide range of humanity without
    any justification. Yet again, I stand in support of the people of Cuba in overcoming economic hardships and
    full access to economic opportunity.

    Mr. President,

    Permit me to consider briefly the post-conflict developments in my own country. I am proud that Sri
    Lanka has eradicated separatist terrorism, spanning three decades, and is in the process of addressing the
    issues of development and reconciliation. Sri Lanka’s government, at all times responsive to the priorities
    reflected in domestic public opinion, is engaged in all measures required for meaningful progress in these
    fields.

    A significant event in this regard is the opportunity which the people of the Northern Province enjoyed
    at the elections, held three days ago, to elect their representatives in the Provincial Council. It is a matter of
    legitimate satisfaction to me that this was made possible after the lapse of almost a quarter of a century.
    There can be no doubt regarding the crucial importance of this measure in the context of political
    empowerment and reconciliation. It is clearly the responsibility of the international community to assist with
    these efforts and to ensure their success for the benefit of all the people of Sri Lanka.

    Mr. President,

    In spite of the visible progress made, and consistent engagement with UN mechanisms, many
    countries are surprised at the disproportionate emphasis on Sri Lanka, and the unequal treatment through the
    multilateral framework. The basis for this relentless pursuit is also questioned. It is my conviction that the UN
    system should be astute to ensure the consistency of standards applied so that there is no room for suspicion
    of manipulation of the UN System by interested parties to fulfil their agendas.

    By nature, human beings have the capacity to achieve the most challenging and noble goals in life,
    through strong commitment and dedication. I am confident that, by our own collective efforts these results
    would prove to be beneficial to all humanity. As Buddha, the Enlightened One said,

    “Atta hi attano natho”
    “Oneself is one’s own benefactor”

    Let these timeless words of wisdom guide the destiny of the world.

    May the Noble Triple Gem Bless you all.

    Thank you.

  2. Lorenzo Says:

    Appealing to the UN, olive branches NEVER brought peace and prosperity to SL.

    It is a FACT.

    We must ACT. LIQUIDATE the enemies of SL EARLY. They are so few in number.

  3. Lorenzo Says:

    From the UN speech,

    ““Atta hi attano natho”

    “Oneself is one’s own benefactor””

    I hope this will be put to practice.

    WE have to do whatever is needed to save SL nation, its unique culture, religion, etc. without waiting for international community, divine power, mother nature, compassion from our enemies, etc. Those will NEVER happen.

    IF king Dutugemunui waited for a peaceful resolution of Ellalan invasion, SL IS NO MORE today!!

    IF MR waited for a peaceful resolution of LTTE invasion and continued with the PEACE PROCESS (LOL!!!), SL IS NO MORE today!!

    Action is what is needed to LIQUIDATE the enemies of SL violently as it is the ONLY solution ever worked.

    Our enemies are VERY STRONG in the international community, in the north, in the courts, in business, etc. The ONLY advantage we have is the ability to liquidate ANY enemy in SL using non state actors. We MUST use the ONLY advantage we have to defend the nation COMPLEMENTED by other means.

  4. SA Kumar Says:

    IF king Dutugemunui waited for a peaceful resolution of Ellalan invasion, SL IS NO MORE today!!

    Elara( Eela Raja) ruled only his Kingtom 32 years at Polanaruvai (in Maha vamsam )!

    Racistion have only short life (may be not longer than 33 years like VP time) !

    We do not have enemy !

    live & let live !

    Forget & forgive !

    why this Kolaveri !!!

  5. Fran Diaz Says:

    The Enemy Within is the worst for any country. Fear & Greed feeds both the Enemy Within & Without.

  6. Fran Diaz Says:

    President MR’s speech is a fine one. We hope it is received in the same spirit as it was delivered, i.e. one of Reconciliation and Reconstruction with Ethics, not only for Sri Lanka but for the entire world.

    The 13-a was foisted on Sri Lankan President JRJ, and continues to this day at the same status of being Enforced.

  7. Lorenzo Says:

    Fran,

    The enemy within has PAVED THE WAY for LTTE (TNA) to take control of part of the country even WITHOUT A FIGHT!!

  8. Fran Diaz Says:

    The article re-printed below from the Daily News of 25 Sept 2013, speaks for itself, of a portion of the Enemy Within. “Profits before People” is not the way to go. “People first & Profits too” makes a fine team. That is future way to go for the whole world, not just for Sri Lanka.

    We salute Minister Maithripala for his firm and just stand.

    “Health Minister drops a bombshell:
    ‘TRIED TO BRIBE ME FOR 15 GENERATIONS’
    Nadira Gunatilleke

    Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena revealed that tobacco companies offered him money enough to buy properties for 15 generations of his family in one of world’s ‘happiest’ countries, but he rejected this offer outright because he values his country and the people. A so called ‘study’ maintains that Sri Lanka stands at the 137th position among 194 in a list of the ‘world’s happiest countries’, Minister Sirisena noted.

    Sirisena said he had been offered money by tobacco companies not to introduce pictorial warnings on cigarette packaging, but he spurned this offer. “The company representatives continuously tried to approach me when I was in Parliament, at home and in office. But I did not meet them because I do not have anything to talk with them,” Minister Sirisena said. He said in terms of past history, all who fought against multinational companies were killed.

    “There is a possibility of assassinating me or my character. May be this decision will decide my political destiny. I will never ever give into them. There are many organisations and the public who are supporting my crusade. I will somehow implement the 80 percent pictorial warning on cigarette packets with their assistance,” the minister said.

    He said arrangements will be made to educate schoolchildren in Sri Lanka on the harmful effects of smoking.

    Children, wives and shop owners will be asked to prevent their loved ones and the public from smoking Minister Sirisena added.

    He expressed these views during a felicitation ceremony in Polonnaruwa with the participation of schoolchildren.

    The children were from Royal College, Rajarata Vidyalaya and Palugasdamana Vidyalaya, Polonnaruwa”.

  9. Fran Diaz Says:

    Lorenzo,

    Under a Democracy, we have to use Democratic norms to combat the none life supportive items of our time.

    Eliminating the wrong ways of thinking in any matter cannot be achieved through violence, Fascism/Dictatorships. It can only be achieved in a lasting manner by the proper use of Media, Education, Meditation leading to God or Self Realisation (ultimate Goal for Mankind), adults setting an example to children, etc. That is the Winning Way.

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