UK MP of Indian origin wants Gen. Shavendra brought under int’l sanction regime

‘Sanctions are one response among a number of tools we can deploy’

By Shamindra Ferdinando

The British government says sanctions in respect of Sri Lanka Army Commander General Shavendra Silva, who is also the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), are among a variety of tools available to them.

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Minister Vicky Ford said on March 09: “We are grateful for the submission by the International Truth and Justice Project on General Shavendra Silva. We keep all evidence and potential designations under close review. However, it is not appropriate to speculate on future designations under the Global Human Rights Sanctions regime, as doing so could reduce their impact. Sanctions are one response among a number of tools we can deploy.”

The Minister said so in response to a query raised by Labour MP Virendra Sharma of Indian origin. The MP has asked the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what discussions her Department has had with the US Administration on designating Gen. Shavendra Silva under the Global Human Rights (GHR) Sanctions regime.

Minister Vicky Ford said the UK Government, alongside our partners in the Core Group on Sri Lanka including the US, has led international efforts to promote accountability and human rights in Sri Lanka. This effort includes the passing of Resolution 46/1 in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to promote and protect human rights, and truth, justice, reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka. We will continue to seek increased accountability and respect for human rights, including through activities funded under our Conflict, Security and Stability Fund programmes.

The Labour Party raised the issue in the wake of the Geneva-based United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) taking up Sri Lanka accountability issue. The UK in its capacity as the leader of Sri Lanka Core Group at Geneva spearheaded the campaign against Sri Lanka.

The US designated General Silva in Feb 2020. Since then, the US has stepped up pressure with retired Maj. Gen. Udaya Perera was brought under the US sanctions regime while throwing its weight behind the UK led project at Geneva, defence sources told The Island.