Voting for the 2024 presidential election began at 7.00 am today (Sep. 21) and will continue until 4.00pm.

How to vote :

According to the Election commission, the ‘mark X’ as well as the Arabic numerals are accepted when marking their votes.

Commissioner General of Elections, Saman Sri Ratnayake has said : voters can use the ‘X’ mark to cast their votes. Similar to previous elections, the ‘X’ mark will be accepted by the Election commission. In addition, the Arabic numeral ‘1’ is also valid for marking the vote”, he added.

He has further stated that for those wishing to indicate preferences can mark their first choice with the Arabic numeral ‘1’ and their second choice with the Arabic numeral ‘2’. To express all three preferences, voters must use Arabic numerals ‘1’, ‘2’, and ‘3’. Any other markings will be considered invalid, he said.

Valid ID : 

Before arriving at the polling station, voters must present one of the following official identification documents:

• National Identity Card (NIC)
• Valid passport
• Valid driving license
• Senior citizens’ identity card
• Government pensioners’ identity card
• Identity card for clergy
• Temporary identity card issued by the Election Commission, available through your local Grama Niladhari

Prohibited actions :
The Election Commission has also emphasized that the following illegal activities are strictly prohibited at polling stations :

• Photographing or filming polling stations and marked ballot papers
• Sharing them on social media platforms
• Carrying firearms
• Smoking or consuming alcohol