Speaking on the matter, he highlighted that it has been over 14 years since some councils last held elections, with the Uva Provincial Council election last held in 2014 and the Eastern Provincial Council in 2012.
Hettiarachchi pointed out that despite the government's policy statement (on page 128) promising to conclude both Local Government and Provincial Council elections within a year, there has been no visible preparation even after a year and a half in power.
He criticized the practice of appointing committees to study election methods, noting that for the past 15 years, numerous reports and recommendations from civil organizations and political parties have already been compiled.
The PAFFREL chief emphasized that since the opposition has already expressed its stance—even proposing private members' bills to return to the old election system—the responsibility now lies solely with the government. He stated that with a two-thirds majority in Parliament, the government could pass the necessary legal amendments within just three months if there was genuine political will.
In addition to his call for elections, Hettiarachchi urged citizens to verify their registration in the 2026 electoral register. The revision process is currently underway from May 5th to June 1st. He encouraged the public to use the online facilities provided by the Election Commission or visit Grama Niladhari offices to ensure their names are included, stressing that safeguarding the right to vote is a vital civic duty.
