Human Rights Watch (HRW) have called on Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe to immediately end the use of the notorious Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) which has been used recently to detain anti-government protesters.
Since taking office, Wickremesinghe has clamped down on protesters by imposing a one month state of emergency and carrying out a series of arrests.
“President Wickremesinghe’s use of antiterrorism legislation to lock up people peacefully calling for reform sends a chilling message to Sri Lankans that rights won’t get priority during his administration,” Meenakshi Ganguly, HRW's South Asia director said.
“The president’s suppression of dissent at home flies in the face of his pledges to allies abroad.”
Last month, Wasantha Mudalige, Convenor of the Inter University Students’ Federation (IUSF), Galwewa Siridhamma Thero, Convener of Inter University Bhikku Federation, and Hashantha Jawantha Gunathilake, a member of the Kelaniya University Students’ Union were arrested and detained under the draconian legislation after a protest on August 18.
HRW noted that lawyers representing the men said that they are being held in "poor conditions" at Tengalle jail and "have not been able to speak to lawyers without guards present, in violation of international standards."
“President Wickremesinghe seems intent on disregarding calls by Sri Lankans for political reform and accountability, and those by his allies abroad to improve respect for human rights,” Ganguly added.
“While people inside the country suffer repression and economic hardship, Sri Lanka’s international partners need to make sure that Wickremesinghe can’t ignore their message.”
Last week, Sri Lankan cabinet spokesman Bandula Gunawardena informed reporters of plans to replace the PTA which has been linked to torture and disappearances, with a new National Security Act. The announcement comes just weeks before the 51st session of the UN Human Rights Council where Sri Lanka's human rights record is to be discussed.
Despite pledges from various Sri Lankan governments to repeal the PTA, the legislation continues to be used disproportionately against Tamils and Muslims.
Read HRW's full statement here.
