Sri Lanka's Presidential Election: Security Measures in Focus Post-Trump Attack

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has proposed the formation of a committee that will oversee the personal security of candidates running in the upcoming presidential election, following an assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump.

The proposed committee will be chaired by the Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security and include the Chief of Defence Staff, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Chief of National Intelligence, and Senior Deputy Inspector General (SDIG) of Police in charge of Elections.

The Cabinet paper, submitted by Wickremesinghe, aims to ensure the safety of all presidential candidates. However, the date for the much-anticipated election will be announced by the end of this month, amidst petitions filed in the Supreme Court, which the opposition views as attempts by the government to avoid the election.

Wickremesinghe has emphasized the urgency for enhanced security measures, citing recent attacks on former US President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania as a significant concern.

Additionally, the President has proposed directing the IGP to appoint a police officer of no less than DIG rank to manage all security matters related to the presidential candidates and former Presidents during the election period.

(With inputs from agencies.)