Former Minister and Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Head of Operations Johnston Fernando has accused certain officials of allegedly fabricating evidence and misusing legal processes to target individuals who oppose or challenge the government.
Speaking to journalists near the Fort Magistrate’s Court, Fernando alleged that a small group of officials was acting in line with the government’s political agenda, while maintaining that he continued to have confidence in the country’s judiciary.
“We have never had a conflict with the courts. However, even the courts are rendered helpless when fabricated evidence is presented before them. That is the reality,” he said.
Fernando claimed that individuals who secure bail in ongoing cases are subsequently subjected to fresh legal proceedings, alleging that this has become a recurring practice.
He further accused the government of using the arrest, remanding and imprisonment of political opponents as a means of generating publicity, rather than highlighting development initiatives or measures aimed at easing the cost of living.
“They have no news to share about building roads or bridges, constructing a port or an airport. So, the only news they have is about remanding people,” he remarked.
Commenting on the role of political leaders in law enforcement, the former minister stressed that the responsibility for implementing the law rests with the relevant legal authorities and independent institutions, rather than politicians.
“A President does not need to personally step in to enforce the law. The country has laws, and the relevant legal authorities enforce them—not politicians. That is how it should be,” he said.
Fernando warned against political interference in law enforcement, stating that allowing politicians to take the law into their own hands could set a dangerous precedent.
“Independent institutions must function as independent institutions,” he added. (Newswire)