I respectfully call upon our people to safeguard democracy and the dignity of the motherland by united, resolute, calm and peaceful behaviour to ensure Sri Lanka's position in the community of nations as one that respects human rights and protects democracy, states President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in a statement on the eve of the Presidential Election.

All necessary instructions have been given by me for the maintenance of law and order, the President further states.


Following is the full text of the statement of President Mahinda Rajapaksa

I have decided to call for a Presidential election, two years prior to the completion of my term as I have the fullest confidence in and respect for democracy.

All campaigning for this election is now concluded. It is a duty and responsibility of all citizens of our country who value democracy to extend their fullest co-operation to the Commissioner of Elections to conduct a free and fair election.

All necessary instructions have been given by me for the maintenance of law and order. I call upon you to go early tomorrow (26) to your polling station and cast your vote.

I respectfully call upon our people to safeguard democracy and the dignity of the motherland by united, resolute, calm and peaceful behaviour to ensure Sri Lanka's position in the community of nations as one that respects human rights and protects democracy.