The JVP yesterday said that though the Local Government elections in the east could not be a 100 percent democratic exercise, it was at least the first step towards reviving democracy in the Eastern Province.

JVP Parliamentary Group Leader Wimal Weerawansa told The Island that his party was happy that were held, but he believed that it could be totally free and fair as certain groups were seen carrying arms, but it was a start.

He said the people of the Vanni and Kilinochichi should also have the opportunity to elect representatives of their own choice at a democratic election, but the LTTE carrying arms still prevented such a step being taken. Normal democratic activity could be revived when armed groups engaged in politics were disarmed Weerawansa said.