The Sri Lanka Working Journalists Association (SLWJA) has strongly opposed the proposed “Protection of the State from Terrorism Act,” warning that it poses a serious threat to democracy and fundamental human rights.
Issuing a statement, the Association said this so-called Protection of the State from Terrorism Act contains a structural framework aimed at severely curtailing democracy and fundamental human rights and at entrenching authoritarian power.
“We urge the government, if it truly values democracy, to withdraw this proposed anti-democratic legislation immediately,” it said.
The Association also raised alarm over several provisions in the bill, including the vague and exclusionary definition of terrorism, prolonged detention without trial, and the militarization of law enforcement.
“The Act threatens freedom of speech, expression, and privacy, endangering democratic values and rights of journalists, activists, and civil society,” it added.
Calling for collective resistance, the Association urged all individuals and groups who value democracy and fundamental human rights to unite and stand in opposition to this dangerous proposed Act. (Newswire)
