By Meenakshi Ganguli Deputy Director of Human Rights Watch Asia points out that instead of focusing on social justice and rights, the new government, led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, is focused on suppressing dissent and limiting international attention on human rights.
Authoritarian Policies
She points out that Wickremesinghe, who had previously politically opposed the Rajapaksa-led party, was expected to reverse the authoritarian policies of the previous government, address entrenched corruption, stabilise the economy and even comply with international pledges to bring long-awaited justice for violations during the 1987-’89 insurgency in the south, and the 1983-2009 civil war in the north
“Instead, Wickremesinghe has moved forcefully to stifle criticism with a raft of new, repressive laws as the country prepares to hold a presidential election later this year. The Online Safety Act, adopted by parliament in January, creates vague and broad speech-related offenses punishable with lengthy prison terms.”
Meenakshi Ganguli points out that The Anti-Terrorism Bill currently before parliament contains draconian powers and a draft law to regulate non-governmental organizations, circulated by the government in January, could make it impossible for civil society organizations to function freely.
Meenakshi Ganguli points out that The Anti-Terrorism Bill currently before parliament contains draconian powers and a draft law to regulate non-governmental organizations, circulated by the government in January, could make it impossible for civil society organizations to function freely.
“Disappeared”
She also blames Wickramesinhe for keeping to the pledge to provide answers to families of the “disappeared”, and to provide reparations for victims of abuse.
“Successive Sri Lankan governments have appointed at least 10 commissions since the 1990s to examine human rights violations and war crimes. The new law simply replicates previous failed efforts, ignores the needs of victims, and falls far short of meeting Sri Lanka’s international legal obligations.” Said Meenkshi Ganguli
She also blames Wickramesinhe for keeping to the pledge to provide answers to families of the “disappeared”, and to provide reparations for victims of abuse.
“Successive Sri Lankan governments have appointed at least 10 commissions since the 1990s to examine human rights violations and war crimes. The new law simply replicates previous failed efforts, ignores the needs of victims, and falls far short of meeting Sri Lanka’s international legal obligations.” Said Meenkshi Ganguli
Accountability
“Wickremesinghe is afraid of Sri Lankans holding their government accountable. International partners, whom he relies upon to support his economic program, need to vigorously support democratic norms and the rule of law to points out the Deputy Director of Human Rights Watch- Asia.
