An online campaign finance observation tool has been introduced for the first time to observe the campaign expenditures of candidates at the presidential polls.
The launch of ‘Chanda Salli Meetare’ (Campaign Finance Meter) has taken place in Colombo.
It was introduced by six local election observers - Transparency International Sri Lanka, People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections, Campaign for Free and Fair Elections, Centre for Monitoring Election Violence, Hashtag Generation, and the Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies.
It aims to advocate for the effective implementation of the Regulation of Election Expenditure Act of 2023, empower citizens with vital information to make informed voting decisions, ensure a level-playing field for all candidates, and foster a free, fair and inclusive electoral environment that upholds democratic values.
The launch at the BMICH in Colombo was attended by officials of the Election Commission among others.
Meanwhile, election commissioner general Saman Sri Ratnayake said leading candidates have requested for a maximum campaign expenditure of Rs. 1,000 per voter.
He said a decision would be announced by gazette notification.
