Sri Lanka’s president praised the “experience and leadership” of Shavendra Silva, the military’s latest chief of staff and commander who led an army unit accused of committing grave crimes against humanity, in an offensive that killed tens of thousands of Tamils.
“It is my pleasure to congratulate Major General Shavendra Silva on his appointment as Chief of Staff,” said Maithripala Sirisena, as Silva took up the promotion this week.
“I am sure your experience and leadership will bring strength and courage to Sri Lanka's defence forces.”
The appointment of Silva has provoked widespread criticism, as Sri Lanka continues to refuse to hold military and political leaders to account for the crimes committed in 2009.
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