Injunction against LG Elections’ activities in some areas including Colombo Municipal Council

The Court of Appeal today (07) issued a stay order temporarily halting further action related to the conduct of elections for several local government bodies, including the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC).

The suspension applies to election-related activities in the Colombo Municipal Council, Harispaththuwa, Panwila, Pathadumbara, Uda Palatha, and Kuliyapitiya Pradeshiya Sabhas.

This interim order was issued after the court granted leave to proceed with writ petitions filed by several political parties and independent groups challenging the rejection of their nominations.

The Court directed that objections to the petitions be submitted by May 5, with any counter-objections to be filed by May 7. The hearing of the petitions has been scheduled for May 16, and the stay order will remain effective until that date.

The petitions argue that the decisions by returning officers to reject their nomination papers, on the grounds of late submission, are unlawful.

The Court of Appeal today (07) issued an interim injunction preventing further action regarding the conduct of local government elections in several local authorities, including the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC).

Justice Lafar stated that the court is ready to expedite the hearing and deliver a decision promptly. While the Deputy Solicitor General requested three weeks to file objections, the court ordered that objections be filed by May 5, with counter-objections due by May 7. The petitions will be heard on May 16.

After hearing both sides, the Presiding Judge announced that a decision on whether to permit the hearing of the newly filed petitions will be delivered on April 10.