NPP warns of non-allocation of funds for local bodies controlled by Opposition

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Rohini Kaviratne in a letter addressed to Secretary Election Commission and Assistant Commissioner Matale District has lodged a complaint against a leaflet that has been distributed by the ruling National People’s Power (NPP) which indicates that funds for the local bodies which will be secured by the opposition at the Local Government polls will be blocked.

 

She had apparently urged the commission to halt the distribution of this leaflet.

 

Ms. Kaviratne said the following in her letter

 

The leaflet which is attached with my letter says that local bodies gets funds from the Central Government. Won’t the administration of a local body fall if it is won by another party. There will no connection between the Central Government and the local body in such an eventuality. Even President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has also come up with a similar remark at a recent meeting.

 

Funds have not be allocated for majority of local bodies in Matale District. However, the Central Government collects whatever funds earned by the local bodies in the district

 

There are legislations that govern funding of local bodies. Guidelines on funding of local bodies have also been specified by the 13th Amendment to the constitution. The Executive does not enjoy powers over the funds of local bodies as per the Municipal Ordinance and the Pradeshiya Sabha Act.

 

This particular leaflet will no doubt affect the people’s right for franchise. Blocking funds for local bodies run by the Opposition is a principle which is far from being democratic.

 

I hope that the Election Commission will carry out its duty and safeguard the rights of people in Matale. Therefore, I request the Election Commission to get the NPP to stop distributing this particular leaflet.