The National Election Commission says the prevalent crisis in the country must be brought to end in order to conduct free and fair elections.
Chairman of the Election Commission Nimal Punchihewa said he is prepared to conduct an election once the major issues faced by the general public due to the current crisis are solved.
Speaking to media after members of the Election Commission called on the Chief Prelates of the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters, Punchihewa said the Commission is obligated to conduct a free and fair election.
He added the public is not in a mindset to vote in a free manner noting at present the public is languishing in fuel queues.
He questioned if polling booths could be established beside fuel queues.
Nimal Punchihewa said Parliament should pass a vote to conduct a General Election with a majority if an election was to be conducted under the approval of the President.
However, Nimal Punchihewa said seeking solutions to the issues faced by the public should be prioritized over conducting elections.
Meanwhile, Commissioner General of Elections Saman Ratnayake said the voter list for 2022 is currently being prepared.
He said the list is expected to be certified by October.
He noted although the government had changed, the state remained intact.
Speaking on whether foreign funds will be used to conduct an election Ratnayake said the President and Cabinet of Ministers have the responsibility of providing funds for the conduct of an election.
