The release of a United Nations report on mass atrocities committed by Sri Lankan troops influenced the decision by the Sri Lankan government to hold parliamentary elections in August, reports Reuters quoting government sources.
The UN report, widely expected to details massacres of Tamil civilians by Sri Lankan soldiers during the final phase of the armed conflict, is due to be released in September. With the possibility of a late August leak, incumbent Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena announced elections for August 17, well before any release is expected.
In doing so Mr Sirisena is attempting to stop an expected rise in popularity for former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was in power during the final massacres. A report that criticises Sri Lankan troops is believed to strengthen his popularity, reports Reuters.
"Even if is not said openly, the U.N. report was considered when deciding the date," said government minister Champika Ranawaka.
Reuters also quoted foreign diplomatic sources as saying Western states also urged Mr Sirisena not to delay with holding parliamentary elections, pre-empting a rise in Mr Rajapaksa’s popularity.
"People have the confidence that if Mahinda Rajapaksa comes to power, national security would be his top priority ... He is still the leader who won the war and brought the development to villages," said parliamentarian Sehan Semage.
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