Amnesty International has called on Sri Lanka's candidates in the forthcoming presidential elections to respect international human rights obligations and prosecute those suspected of committing crimes under international law.

In a statement released ahead of the presidential elections next month, the non-governmental organisation said it “calls on all candidates to make a firm commitment to end the widespread human rights violations that have plagued Sri Lanka for decades, eliminate the climate of impunity which facilitates these violations and abuses and combat ethnic, religious and gender-based discrimination and violence.”

“Sri Lanka’s new president can demonstrate his commitment to respecting human rights and bringing an end to impunity by committing publicly to ensure the investigation of serious violations and abuses of international human rights and humanitarian law and, where sufficient evidence exists, the prosecution of those suspected of committing crimes under international law, irrespective of the identity of the victim or the suspect including their rank, political status or influence.”

Amnesty International highlighted areas of concern that it urged candidates to act on, including the Prevention of Terrorism Act, Buddhist hardline organisations and the culture of impunity on the island.

Calling on Sri Lankan authorities to repeal Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), Amnesty International noted that “people have thus been held for years as they wait for detaining authorities to frame a case against them that often never materializes.”

Highlighting concern over attacks on minorities, Amnesty also said, “Buddhist hardline nationalist organizations have organized protests and attacks against religious minorities and places of worship, as well as issuing threats and smear campaigns against human rights defenders, political activists, and international visitors advocating human rights accountability in Sri Lanka.”

“The culture of impunity that was fostered in Sri Lanka before and during the armed conflict continues to undermine the rights of victims and rule of law,” continued the organisation.

“Victims of crimes under international law have not received truth, justice and reparation. For example, the Government of Sri Lanka has failed to provide families with information regarding the fate and whereabouts of victims of enforced disappearances. Those who have sought to publicize their grievances have been targets of threats, intimidation and attacks.”

“Ending impunity, which exists at all levels, is crucial, but it is only part of the challenge Sri Lanka faces in repairing its human rights record and restoring public faith in its justice system and the rule of law.”

See the full statement here.