Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has held discussions with representatives of diplomatic missions and international organisations in Colombo over concerns surrounding the government’s proposed anti-terrorism and organised crime legislation.
According to a statement issued by the Office of the Leader of the Opposition on October 25, the meeting focused on the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill and the Prevention of Organised Crimes Bill, particularly their implications for fundamental rights, judicial independence and constitutional safeguards.
Former MP M.A. Sumanthiran and other serving and former parliamentarians also raised concerns over the proposed legislation during the discussion.
Premadasa stressed that while effective laws were necessary to combat terrorism and organised crime, such measures must include adequate judicial oversight and safeguards against the abuse of executive powers.
The meeting also highlighted concerns raised by the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL), which, in a statement dated October 21, described the proposed organised crime legislation as “wholly incompatible” with the fundamental rights chapter of the Constitution and Sri Lanka’s international human rights obligations.
The Commission warned that the proposed legislation could be more draconian than the Prevention of Terrorism Act of 1979 and called for its withdrawal and substantial revision.
Among the concerns highlighted were provisions relating to confessions made to senior police officers, executive-authorised detention, broad definitions of serious crimes and restrictions on judicial discretion over remand and bail.
Separately, the HRCSL raised concerns about the proposed terrorism legislation, calling for narrower definitions of terrorism, judicial supervision of detention orders, access to legal representation and stronger safeguards for granting bail.
The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has also called for the withdrawal of the organised crime Bill and the withdrawal or amendment of the proposed terrorism legislation in its present form.
Premadasa called for the publication of expert committee recommendations and wider consultations with the HRCSL, BASL and other stakeholders before the proposed legislation proceeds.
He emphasised that constitutional safeguards were essential not only for politicians and activists but also for ordinary citizens who could come into contact with the criminal justice system.
The Opposition Leader also reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, stressing that domestic legal issues should primarily be addressed through Parliament, the judiciary and national institutions, while maintaining constructive engagement with diplomatic representatives.
He reiterated the Opposition’s willingness to support effective security legislation that protects the public while upholding constitutional democracy, judicial independence and individual liberties. (Newswire)