TISL condemns ongoing suppression of civic activism

Tuesday, 6 September 2022 03:22 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Urges President and Govt. to revoke detention orders and take immediate steps to establish a democratic society where citizens can freely exercise fundamental rights without fear of reprisals

The Transparency International Sri Lanka (TISL) yesterday in a statement unequivocally condemned the arrests and oppression of citizens who raised their voices in peaceful protests to challenge those responsible for the country’s governance.

TISL also denounced the destruction of public property that belongs to all citizens, under any circumstance.

TISL observed with concern that the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and provisions of other laws are being misused arbitrarily and without reasonable suspicion to arrest and question citizens who took a stand for a corruption-free country.

“Such arbitrary application of the law creates a chilling effect and discourages citizens from exercising democratic rights, leading to dire consequences for Sri Lanka,” TISL said.

“Arrests and questioning that are sanctioned only under the temporary provisions of the PTA, disregarding the constitutionally enshrined freedom of expression, freedom of association and freedom of assembly, can be viewed as a misuse of the Executive and State powers that should be used for the well-being of citizens and not against them,” it added.

TISL said every citizen is equal in the eyes of the law, and the law should not be used as a weapon to suppress legitimate political dissent. At present, the application of the law cannot be viewed as equal when those accused of high-level corruption roam free while others are dealt with the full force of anti-terrorism laws. TISL emphasises that the Executive should be accountable to ensure equality of all citizens before the law.

TISL said it stands with the citizens and civil society activists who raised their voices within legal bounds to eliminate corruption for true systemic change. TISL also urged the President and the Government to revoke detention orders and to take immediate steps to establish a democratic society where citizens can freely exercise their fundamental rights without fear of reprisals.