CaFFE condemns attempt to intimidate Ven Aturaliye Rathana Thera

Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) says that it strongly condemns the attempt to intimidate Jathika Hela Urumaya's (JHU) Ven ASturaliye Rathana Thera today, a short time before president signed a proclamation declaring his intention to contest for a third term.

Issuing a press release, the organization says that an unidentified group have gathered near Jathika Hela Urumaya's (JHU) Ven ASturaliye Rathana Thera's temple in Gothami Road, Rajagiriya. Police have dispatched a number of mobile units to the site to provide security.

Rathana Thera was one of the leading figures attempting to field a common opposition candidate for the coming presidential election and in recent weeks has emerged as one of the most important and impactful critic of the government. 

CaFFE further says that it believe this attempt to be a part of government's moves to intimidate opponents of the government and an attempt to thwart the fielding of a common opposition candidate.

CaFFE urges the law enforcement authorities to take immediate action to assure the safety of opposition party leaders and supporters.