Sri Lanka: Postponed parliamentary elections to be held on August 5

Event

On Thursday, June 11, the National Election Commission in Sri Lankan announced that the 2020 parliament election will take place on Wednesday, August 5. The poll has been twice postponed due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Political rallies and demonstrations are expected in the weeks leading up to the election. Protests are also likely at polling stations on the day of the election.

Context

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, elected to office on November 16, 2019, dissolved parliament on March 2, 2020, and has called for new parliamentary elections aiming to obtain a majority.

Advice

Individuals in Sri Lanka are advised to monitor developments, avoid all political gatherings as a precaution, anticipate a heightened security presence, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.