Cabinet approval to gazette Anti-Terrorist bill

• Anti-Terrorist Bill set for overhaul following public concerns

The Cabinet of Ministers approved the resolution put forth by the Justice, Prison Activities, and Constitutional Reforms Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe to publish the revised Anti-Terrorist Bill in the Government Gazette and subsequently submit it to the Parliament for deliberation for approval.

Sri Lanka’s legal landscape is poised for significant change as the Government responds to concerns and feedback from both local and international stakeholders regarding the draft of the new Anti-Terrorist Act. 

The revised draft Bill marks a crucial step toward repealing the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). These revisions were made to address the concerns and align the proposed legislation with international best practices.

On 5 September 2022, the Cabinet of Ministers approved publishing the draft Bill prepared by the Legal Draftsman. The aim was to introduce a modernised Anti-Terrorist Act, replacing the long-standing Prevention of Terrorism Act. Subsequently, on 22 March 2023, the draft Bill was officially published in the Government Gazette, marking a significant milestone in the legislative process.

However, the release of the draft Bill was met with concerns and reservations from various quarters, both domestically and internationally. In response to these concerns, the Justice, Prison Activities, and Constitutional Reforms Ministry formally called for views and proposals from interested parties through electronic media. 

Furthermore, the Justice, Prison Activities, and Constitutional Reforms Minister engaged in discussions with select parties to gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.