Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has outlined five key proposals concerning Sri Lanka’s proposed security legislation, calling for greater transparency, judicial safeguards and the protection of fundamental rights.
The proposals were presented during a meeting with representatives of diplomatic missions and international organisations at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition in Colombo 7.
The discussion primarily focused on the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill and the Prevention of Organised Crime Bill.
Premadasa called for the following five safeguards to be incorporated into the proposed legislation:
- Publication of expert recommendations relevant to the proposed legislation.
- Clear and proportionate definitions of offences under the proposed laws.
- Meaningful judicial discretion over detention, remand and bail.
- Safeguards against coerced confessions and arbitrary searches to protect fundamental rights.
- Consultations with the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) and other relevant stakeholders before enacting the legislation.
During the meeting, Premadasa highlighted concerns raised by the HRCSL regarding the Prevention of Organised Crime Bill.
In its October 21 statement, the Commission assessed that the proposed legislation was incompatible with constitutional fundamental rights protections and Sri Lanka’s international human rights obligations, warning that it could be more draconian than the Prevention of Terrorism Act of 1979.
The HRCSL has recommended withdrawing and substantially amending the Bill to ensure compliance with constitutional and international human rights standards.
Meanwhile, the BASL has also called for the withdrawal of the Prevention of Organised Crime Bill and the withdrawal or amendment of the proposed anti-terrorism legislation in its current form.
Former MP M. A. Sumanthiran and other current and former parliamentarians who attended the meeting also expressed concerns over the potential implications of the proposed laws for fundamental rights and the rule of law.
Premadasa emphasised that national security measures must be accompanied by effective judicial oversight and respect for civil liberties.
He further stressed that the proposed safeguards were intended to protect all citizens, rather than provide special privileges to politicians or activists.
The Opposition Leader reiterated his commitment to supporting effective security legislation that protects the public from serious crime while safeguarding constitutional democracy, judicial independence and individual freedoms. (Newswire)