UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Association, Clement Voule has raised concerns over the declaration of High-Security Zones in Sri Lanka.
In a Twitter message, Clement Voule said the move is considered as prohibiting public gatherings.
Sri Lanka authorities must respect the people’s rights to protest, the UN Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Association urged.
Clement Voule further called on the authorities to ensure any restrictions, including these, are justified, necessary, and proportionate.
Last week (23), a Gazette notification was released under President Ranil Wickremesinghe declaring High-Security Zones in Colombo.
As per the Gazette, the High-Security Zones include the Parliament, Supreme, High court & Magistrate Court- Colombo, AG’s Dept, Presidential Secretariat, President’s House, Navy, Air Force & Police HQs, Ministry of Defence, SL Army Hq- Akuregoda, PM Office, Temple Trees, Official Residencies of Defence Sec & Commanders of Tri Forces.
Objections have been raised by local and international officials over the declaration of High-Security Zones in Colombo, which is deemed as a restriction on the public’s freedom. (NewsWire)