Kelepotha Vithanage Ariyaratne et al. v. S.T. Kodikara et al. – SC WRIT APPLICATION NO. 12/2018-2019

In the case between candidates and party officials of the Democratic United National Front (petitioners) and the Returning Officer, Election Commission members, and other election officials (respondents), the court addressed whether a Nomination Paper for the Elpitiya Pradeshiya Sabhawa election had been validly “delivered” in compliance with Section 28(5) of the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance. The dispute centered on whether the statutory requirement was satisfied when the Nomination Paper, while physically handed over by the 2nd petitioner, was done so under the direct control and presence of the authorized agent, the 1st petitioner. Based on affidavits, documentary evidence, and legal precedents, it was determined that Section 28(5) had been complied with. The court granted writs