President makes a stirring call to masses to desist from violence in forthcoming General Elections
[30 September 2000]

The President Her Excellency Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunge in an address to the nation last night stated "We have embarked on an era that has left behind a period of 17 years of bitter experiences of election violence. Let us join hands for a new political culture devoid of violence and terrorism. Let us dedicate ourselves to hold the forthcoming General Election in a free and fair manner."

Her Excellency strongly stated, stringent action will be taken against those who engage in violence, regardless of whether a supporter, member or a candidate of the PA. She urged all other contesting party leaders to instruct their supporters, not to engage in any form of violence to hold the forthcoming elections in a free and fair manner.

Strongly stresssing on the importance of a free and fair election, Her Excellency stated that it is her responsibility to draw this matter in to the attention of her country men. 

President further stated, "The General Elections will be held on 10 October to elect my next Government. The Government elected by this election should be very clean. It should not be a Government blemished by violence, allegations of corruption and fraud."

President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunge took this opportunity express her sorrows to the members of the families of those who were victims of the incidents that took place during last few days. 

Finally she stated "We should change our concepts and attitudes within a such great transformation. If not we will not be able to reap the fruits of this great intellectual revolution. Peace is our goal as well as of the entire world today. Peace can only be achieved by eschewing violence." 

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