The government yesterday (Jan 12) strongly condemning the shooting incident at Tangalle said that it will not tolerate any such acts of violence, in the midst of this democratic electoral process.

"Instructions have been given to the authorities to bolster security at political events up to and on polling day to ensure that all Sri Lankans can participate safely in the electoral process", a government statement said.

Full text of the statement :

The Government of Sri Lanka is appalled at this tragedy, vehemently condemns it, and will not tolerate any such acts of violence, in the midst of this democratic electoral process.

All steps are being taken to bring those responsible to justice.

Instructions have been given to the authorities to bolster security at political events up to and on polling day to ensure that all Sri Lankans can participate safely in the electoral process.