EC warns parties against making unverified allegations

The Elections Commission has urged political parties to refrain from making unsubstantiated claims during political activities and meetings.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the commission said it had observed instances in which claims that could not be substantiated were being made during political party activities and meetings in violation of the law.

The commission said making accusations against a political party or its members on the basis of allegations that cannot be proven is contrary to the code of conduct political parties are required to follow under Article 45(r) of the Political Parties Act.

While freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution, the commission urged political parties to exercise that right responsibly and conduct their activities in accordance with the law.

It also advised parties to comply with the standards of conduct set out in Article 45 of the Political Parties Act and to avoid activities prohibited under Article 7(h) of the law.

The statement comes after former President Abdulla Yameen made claims at a People’s National Front (PNF) gathering last week about a fire that affected a building housing three government ministries on December 12, 2024.

Yameen had said the fire was deliberately set and claimed police knew who was responsible and had evidence related to the incident.

Police later said Yameen’s remarks contained information relevant to their investigation and sought to summon him to provide further details.

However, Yameen subsequently said he did not have any information about the fire beyond what he had already stated publicly and objected to accepting the police summons.

The Elections Commission did not name Yameen or the PNF in its statement.