President Mahinda Rajapaksa warned those who engaged in undemocratic activities during the election that they would be severely dealt with according to the law. Addressing a massive election rally at the Bandarawela UC grounds yesterday (January 22), he said that a political party which is well-known for creating a fear psychosis among the people in the past in trying to sow the seeds of discontent and fear among the people again.

The President emphasized that he has ordered law enforcement authorities to arrest anybody engaged in undemocratic activities, irrespective of their status.

“I will not allow such unscrupulous elements to breach democracy nor disrupt the peace and co-existence among the people under any circumstances,” he said.

The President stressed he has already ordered the Police to take stern action against the elements engaged in activities detrimental to peace and democracy in the country.

“I will not hesitate to call for the Armed Forces if the Police and the STF fail to ensure peace and democracy in society,” he said.

President Rajapaksa added that the people should not be in fear as all measures have been taken by the Government to ensure peace and security in society during the election.

He said a political party is trying to bring back the country to terror in defiance of the UNP’s claims not to do so.

He said this particular group identified the persons who were killed by themselves as traitors and the family members of the victim were ordered to bring their corpses to the graves.

The President said Government officials should carry out their duties with bias to none. He said Government officials have a responsibility to ensure that democracy is always protected by the people.

He said Government officials should discharge their duties without being intimidated by elements with vested interests.

Heathcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, Deputy Health Minister Vadivel Suresh, Nation Building Minister Jagath Pushpakumara and Uva Province Chief Minister Shashendra Rajapaksa were present.