4.3. General Election 2015 Sri Lankans voted to elect a new Parliament on 17th August 2015. The Human Rights Commission and Department of Elections have different mandates, but they both have the objective of working towards justice and equity. In order to achieve these different initiatives were taken by the Commission in collaboration with the Department of Elections and/or with Civil Society organizations to ensure a free and fair election. I - Reservation of public places for election meetings with political parties The Human Rights Commission conducted meetings with the participation of Elections Commissioner, Local Authorities and relevant Secretaries to the Ministries. Prepared guidelines in relation to the said issue, to ensure fair play devoid of favoritism to ensure first come first served within the legal frame. A Committee headed by District Secretary was appointed to supervise the implementation of these guidelines. II - Leave for private sector employees There was a loophole with regard to granting leave for private sector employees to vote. The Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and the Elections Commission were summoned to discuss the issue. The Human Rights Commission together with the Elections Commissioner forwarded appropriate proposals for granting leave. These proposals were accepted and a recommendation was issued to the Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and Commissioner of Labour. Finally, the Minister of Labour issued a public notice to all the private sector employees with regard to leave entitlement of private sector employees for voting. 32