Secret ballot to elect new Colombo Mayor amid heated debate

A secret ballot is currently underway at the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) to elect the city’s new Mayor, following tense exchanges over the voting method during the Council’s inaugural session.

The session commenced at 9:30 a.m. under the patronage of Sarangika Jayasundara, Commissioner of the Department of Local Government of the Western Province.

A heated situation arose early in the proceedings over whether the Mayor should be chosen through an open or secret vote.

The Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and the United National Party (UNP) pushed for an open vote, while members of the National People’s Power (NPP) insisted on a secret ballot.

After prolonged deliberations, councillors agreed to proceed with a secret ballot.

Two nominees are in contention are Vraie Cally Balthazaar, proposed by the NPP, and Riza Zarook, nominated by the SJB. T