NPOC appeals to contesting groups

The National Polls Observation Centre (NPOC) in a statement yesterday requested all political parties and independent groups contesting the forthcoming Provincial Council elections to refrain from conducting their campaigns and propaganda on communal or religious (sectarian) lines.

The NPOC involved in observation activities has received reports that political parties and independent groups contesting the elections particularly in the Eastern Province are engaged in a campaign based on communal or religious (sectarian) lines.

“At a time when peace has dawned in the country after ending the 30 year war, all political parties and independent groups should refrain from inciting communal or religious tension and transform the election campaign to one which will win the hearts and minds of the voters by their party or independent policies and plans,” the statement said.