SLPP alleges political persecution, misuse of state institutions
Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) General Secretary Sagara Kariyawasam has accused the government of politically targeting its opponents and misusing state institutions, claiming that the independence and neutrality of key institutions are being undermined.
Kariyawasam made the allegations at the launch of the SLPP’s nationwide “Yukthiya Wenuwen Nagitimu” (Rise Up for Justice) seminar series in Kalutara, organised together with former MP Sanjeeva Edirimanne and local party representatives.
Addressing the gathering, Kariyawasam claimed that institutions responsible for upholding justice, including the Sri Lanka Police, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), the judiciary and the Department of Prisons, were increasingly losing the political neutrality expected of them.
He cited several recent appointments and administrative decisions to support his allegations, including the appointment of a retired police officer to head the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Kariyawasam alleged that the officer had previously participated in National People’s Power (NPP) political activities.
The SLPP General Secretary also raised allegations concerning CIABOC, referring to past statements attributed to late former JVP General Secretary Nandana Gunathilake regarding the political affiliations of its Director General.
Kariyawasam further alleged that witnesses had been pressured to sign false statements implicating former President Mahinda Rajapaksa and SLPP National Organiser Namal Rajapaksa.
He also criticised the Ministry of Justice over what he described as its failure to implement an order by the Human Rights Commission concerning former Commissioner General of Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya.
Turning to the detention of Namal Rajapaksa, Kariyawasam claimed that the legal proceedings relating to an incident dating back 13 years represented a departure from established legal procedure. He alleged that Rajapaksa remained in remand custody without formal charges or a concluded trial.
Kariyawasam said the SLPP was not seeking special treatment, but insisted that established legal procedures should be followed, including conducting investigations, informing suspects of the allegations against them, filing charges and holding a fair trial before punishment is imposed if guilt is established.
He also warned against what he described as the politicisation of law enforcement, arguing that the abuse of state power could ultimately threaten the rights and safety of ordinary citizens.
The SLPP launched the nationwide seminar series with a call for the public to speak out against what the party describes as political persecution and threats to democratic rights and the rule of law. (Newswire)
The post SLPP alleges political persecution, misuse of state institutions appeared first on Newswire.