Speaking in Hakmana yesterday (Nov 15), Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said that the announcement for a presidential election will be made in the next 72 hours.
The Minister further stated that the President will make the particular announcement. Nearly 20 hours have passed since the Minister made the particular statement.
Accordingly, the announcement on the election will be made in next 48 hours approximately.
In an inquiry made later, Minister Dullas Alahapperuma reconfirmed his statement.
Handing over of nominations on 4th
Accordingly, the handing over of nomination papers might take place at Election Secretariat in Rajagiriya on 04th or 05th of December.
The handing over of nomination papers should take place 16 days after the gazette notification with regard to it is issued.
Accordingly, the presidential election will be definitely held on 07th or 08th of January.
The least number of days for election campaigns, 33 days, were provided during the elections held in 1982 and 1994.If similar amount was provided for this election the election should be held in one of the two dates mentioned above.
The Election Commissioner is vested with the power to decide the date of obtaining nomination and the presidential election.
Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing an event held in Kurunegala yesterday stated that he had informed the opposition of the presidential election providing them enough time to prepare.