During a media conference on September 19, Election Commission (EC) Chairman R. M. A. L. Rathnayake announced that the official results for the 2024 Presidential Election, including the declaration of the winning candidate, are expected to be finalized by September 22. The conference, held at the Department of Government Information, included members of the Election Commission, Elections Commissioner General Saman Sri Rathnayake, and Police Media Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa. A team of European Union election observers was also in attendance.

Elections Commissioner General Rathnayake noted that first-time voters aged 18 and over who do not have National Identity Cards can use temporary ID documents with their photos, issued by the Department for Registration of Persons, as valid identification at polling stations.

Chairman Rathnayake emphasized that voters are strictly prohibited from bringing mobile phones into polling booths, a point reiterated by DIG Thalduwa. He also announced that temporary election offices for all presidential candidates must be dismantled by midnight on September 19, warning that any violations, including non-compliance with these rules, will result in strict penalties, including potential arrests.

The Election Commission Chairman announced plans to start counting postal votes around 4 PM and votes cast on Election Day at approximately 7 PM. He clarified that a candidate must secure a clear majority of 50.1% of the total votes to be declared the winner. If no candidate achieves this, the counting will proceed with preferential votes for the top two candidates based on the valid ballot papers from other candidates.

To ensure a fair election process, all outdoor election propaganda and activities near polling centers aimed at influencing voters are strictly prohibited. The Police have been instructed to arrest anyone engaging in these illegal actions. Police Media Spokesman DIG Thalduwa added that public screenings of election results on large screens, as well as crowd gatherings, are banned. He urged the public to remain indoors and view the results privately. Measures are being implemented to prevent violence during the election result announcements, with plans to confiscate any screening equipment and disperse crowds if necessary.

DIG Nihal Thalduwa announced that 63,000 police officers will be deployed to ensure the security of the presidential election. Their responsibilities will include safeguarding polling and counting centers, as well as providing special protection for sealed ballot boxes during transportation to counting centers across all districts. This security plan includes measures to protect against natural disasters and other potential threats.

Thalduwa emphasized that heightened police presence and security will be maintained nationwide until the announcement of the election results. Additionally, 10,000 civil defense personnel will assist the police, and officers from the Police Special Task Force (STF) will conduct mobile monitoring trips on Election Day. He warned that police are prepared to use maximum force against any individuals causing disturbances at polling centers, including making arrests for unlawful behavior.

In conclusion, the comprehensive security measures outlined by DIG Nihal Thalduwa highlight the commitment to a peaceful and orderly presidential election process. With the deployment of thousands of police officers and civil defense personnel, along with strict protocols for monitoring polling centers, authorities aim to ensure the integrity of the election and protect voters. The emphasis on swift action against any disruptions underscores the importance placed on maintaining a secure environment as the nation approaches this critical democratic event.