The church also denied claims by an opposition lawmaker that the pontiff had cancelled his January 13-15 visit because a presidential election was being held just days earlier.

"We categorically state that the visit of the holy father will go ahead as scheduled," the church said in a statement. "We ask legislators not to make irresponsible statements and mislead people."

The church itself had earlier expressed doubts over the visit so close to a national election.

Roman Catholics account for around six percent of Sri Lanka's 20 million population and their block vote is seen as crucial to secure the presidency in the January 8 vote.

The church statement said authorities had been asked to remove all campaign posters with the image of the pope and other church symbols.

It said a previous request to political parties appeared to have been ignored.

Posters which have been displayed in Catholic-populated areas show President Mahinda Rajapakse at a recent audience with the pope.

Rajapakse, a member of the majority Buddhist community who is seeking an unprecedented third term, is being challenged by his former health minister Maithripala Sirisena, who is also a Buddhist.

(AFP)