Former Parliamentarian Udith Lokubandara has called on the government to reconsider the proposed Protection of the State from Terrorism Act (PSTA), warning that national security legislation must not undermine democratic freedoms and constitutional rights.
In a detailed statement, Lokubandara, who serves as the Sri Lanka Freedom Party’s (SLFP) Foreign Affairs Coordinator and Wanni District Leader, said the party opposes the proposed legislation in its present form due to concerns over fundamental rights and the potential misuse of state powers.
He stressed that the SLFP’s position should not be interpreted as opposition to counterterrorism legislation, but rather as a call for stronger legal safeguards.
Lokubandara said the proposed PSTA, intended to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) of 1979, must address the shortcomings of the existing law rather than reproduce them under a different name.
He highlighted concerns surrounding the definition of terrorism, arrest and detention powers, executive authority and the adequacy of judicial supervision.
According to Lokubandara, counterterrorism legislation must clearly distinguish genuine terrorist activities from peaceful protests, trade union action, political expression and legitimate public dissent.
He also called for meaningful consultation with legal professionals, constitutional experts, human rights institutions and communities affected by previous counterterrorism measures before the legislation is advanced.
Referring to Sri Lanka’s history, Lokubandara acknowledged that the PTA had remained in force under successive governments, including SLFP-led administrations.
However, he argued that past security challenges should not prevent political leaders from recognising shortcomings in existing legislation and strengthening protections against abuse.
Drawing on his experience as a former MP, Monitoring MP for the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development, and Chief of Staff to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Lokubandara said accountability must accompany the exercise of state power regardless of which political party holds office.
He further warned that the proposed legislation could have implications for Sri Lanka’s international commitments, including obligations relevant to the European Union’s GSP+ trade preferences.
Lokubandara urged the government and Parliament to examine the contested provisions carefully and ensure that any replacement for the PTA represents genuine progress in protecting individual freedoms.
He emphasised that protecting the country from terrorism and safeguarding democratic rights are not competing objectives.
“Sri Lanka does not have to choose between national security and democratic freedom,” he said.
The former parliamentarian maintained that the ultimate objective of national security legislation should be to protect citizens, their freedoms and the democratic principles of the country. (Newswire)