According to M. P. Sumanasekara, the Returning Officer for the Hambantota District, nine government officials have been removed from election duties for endorsing presidential candidates against the rules outlined in the Establishment Code. Sumanasekera, when reached for a statement, mentioned that these individuals were part of a group of 19 officers currently being investigated for the same offence.
Among the officials were three physicians, one public health inspector, nine school principals, a deputy principal, four educators, and a manager from a Samurdhi Bank.
Sumanasekara highlighted that Public Administration Circular 32/2017 categorised Staff Grade Officers and Non-Staff Grade Officers in the Public Service and Provincial Public Service. He noted that this circular, along with the Establishment Code, clearly stated that such officials were not permitted to engage in political activities beyond voting, and outlined the protocols for addressing errant officials.
“Section 1:2 of Chapter XXXII of the Establishment Code explicitly prohibits officers without political rights from participating in any political endeavours except for voting in specific elections such as Presidential, Parliamentary, Referendum, Provincial Council, or Local Authorities Elections,” he remarked.
Following investigations, nine of the 19 officials were relieved of their election duties.
District Returning Officer Sumanasekara stated that the vacancies created by their removal have already been filled.
Source: Ada Derena
