(Commonwealth_ As dawn broke over Sri Lanka’s polling stations in September, millions of citizens gathered to cast their votes in the presidential election. Among them were Commonwealth observers, marking the organization’s 200th election observation mission. Their presence underscored a commitment to fostering electoral integrity, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring that the electoral process remains free and fair. By monitoring the elections and making key recommendations, these observers play a crucial role in bolstering public confidence and supporting transparent governance.
A Meeting of Generations at the Ballot Box
In Colombo’s bustling suburbs, two women from different generations stood side by side, united in their shared democratic right to vote. Samanmalee Gunawardena, a 76-year-old retiree, was born in the very year Sri Lanka achieved independence. For her, voting was a reaffirmation of the freedoms secured decades ago. In contrast, Dilushi Wijesinghe, a 22-year-old journalist, was casting her vote for the first time. With strong opinions on what the next President should prioritize, Dilushi believed tackling national debt and providing greater support for the elderly and marginalized communities were essential issues that needed urgent attention. Despite their half-century age gap, the two women found common ground in their dedication to democracy. Both recognized the significance of their votes and the impact they could have on the nation’s future.
“I had never entered a polling station before, nor was I familiar with the procedure—from standing in line to hearing election officers loudly call out my name and verify my identity. I felt the responsibility to make an informed decision about whom to vote for, knowing that my participation would contribute to the final outcome of the election.”
Like many Sri Lankans, Dilushi was acutely aware of the pressing challenges facing the country, including economic stability, social cohesion, and governance reforms. She viewed her vote as a tool for shaping the nation’s direction.
Gratitude for Commonwealth Observers
Samanmalee, having witnessed decades of elections in Sri Lanka, expressed her appreciation for the Commonwealth’s role in monitoring the electoral process. As she cast her vote, she took a moment to acknowledge their presence, stating:“Thank you for watching.”
Her words resonated with many others in the queue, who patiently waited their turn to exercise their right to vote. Their appreciation reflected a broader understanding of the importance of international electoral oversight in upholding democracy.
The Commonwealth’s Role in Strengthening Democracy
For decades, the Commonwealth Secretariat has played a pivotal role in promoting democratic values across its member states. Election observation is one of the most visible and impactful aspects of the Secretariat’s work, serving as a tangible demonstration of Commonwealth principles.
The Secretariat follows a two-pronged approach to its mission of strengthening democracy:
Election Observation Missions – Deploying independent observers to assess electoral processes, ensuring they align with democratic norms and best practices.
Targeted Assistance to National Stakeholders – Providing expert guidance to electoral commissions, political parties, and civil society groups to enhance governance and democratic resilience throughout the election cycle.
This comprehensive approach allows the Commonwealth to support nations in fortifying their democratic institutions, ultimately fostering peaceful, prosperous, and progressive societies. By working alongside governments and civic organizations, the Commonwealth continues to champion transparent elections and accountable governance.
As Sri Lanka moves forward from its latest presidential election, the observations and recommendations made by Commonwealth monitors will serve as valuable insights for improving future elections. Whether addressing concerns about electoral procedures, voter education, or governance reforms, these insights contribute to enhancing democracy in Sri Lanka and beyond.
With more than 2.7 billion citizens across its 56 member nations, the Commonwealth remains a steadfast advocate for democracy. The 200th election observation mission in Sri Lanka stands as a testament to this enduring commitment, reinforcing the belief that every vote counts, every election matters, and democracy thrives when citizens are actively engaged in shaping their future.
