Rohana Hettiarachchi, the Executive Director of the People’s Action for Free and Fair Elections (PAFFREL), has observed a significant decline in political engagement during this year’s General Election. Despite 8,888 candidates vying for positions, fewer than 1,000 are actively campaigning, reflecting a notable shift in public participation.
Hettiarachchi attributes this trend to changing public perceptions about the benefits of political involvement, coupled with growing disillusionment with traditional party structures. He further pointed out that while nearly 600,000 regional party offices could be established to accommodate the voter base, only 9,291 are currently operational, mirroring the low turnout in the campaigns.
The PAFFREL Executive Director also noted that while reports of public resource misuse and violations of public property persist, they have not reached alarming levels. However, 25 violent incidents have been recorded so far, although they have not escalated into a severe situation.
Additionally, Hettiarachchi highlighted the increasing inactivity among regional representatives of political parties, with many showing signs of disengagement. A key factor behind this trend, he explained, is the growing public realization that the rewards once associated with political loyalty may no longer be as accessible as they once were.
