Vettivel Uthayanath vs R. M. A. L. Rathnayake – CA/WRIT APPLICATION NO: 299/25-2025

The case between Vettivel Uthayanath and the Returning Officer of Vavuniya addressed the issue of compliance with the requirements for nomination papers under the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance. It was determined that nomination papers must be accompanied by a certified copy of the birth certificate in accordance with Section 28(4A), and that the submission of uncertified photocopies fails to satisfy the statutory mandate. The holding reaffirmed the principle that strict adherence to statutory requirements is essential to ensure the integrity of electoral documentation and to prevent potential fraud.

M. T. Mohammed Laffar, J.: It was determined that the submission of uncertified photocopies contravenes Section 28(4A) of the Local Authorities Elections Ordinance, and that the mandat