UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said he had “strong expectations” that the Sri Lankan government will ensure “the peaceful and credible conduct” of the presidential election, during a telephone conversation with External Affairs Minister GL Peiris.
The secretary general also reaffirmed the UN’s continued support for accountability, political dialogue and reconciliation, noting the importance of inclusive participation of all voters, including from minority communities, in the election process without fear.
Election related violence has already erupted in some locations, as the race between incumbent President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his challenger Maithripala Sirisena heats up as the election approaches.