News
Bar Association complains of spike in arbitrary acts by authorities
The Executive Committee of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), on Friday (05) observed a rise in arbitrary arrests and criminal activity in recent times. The BASL, in a statement, said the legal system provides for investigation, inquiry, trial, and punishment by proper authorities which is the base of democracy and the Rule of Law, and the credibility and transparency of such process must be diligently and fiercely preserved.
Given below is the statement in full: “The BASL firmly condemns the regrettable shooting incident that transpired in Weligama, resulting in the tragic demise of a Police Sergeant and the injury caused to a Sub Inspector from the Colombo Crimes Division (CCD).
“This incident purportedly occurred within the context of an operation aimed at apprehending a group allegedly engaged in illicit drug activities.
BASL underscores the utmost significance of adhering to due process and upholding the rule of law.
“The police raids, including the demolition of property carried out without valid search warrants and/or valid search orders, whilst flagrantly violating established legal protocols, render them unlawful.
“Such actions not only undermine the bedrock principles of justice, but also erode public confidence in the integrity of law enforcement agencies.
“In terms of Article 13 (4) of the Constitution, no person shall be punished with death or imprisonment except by order of a competent court.
“Hence, even a convicted criminal has a right not to be arbitrarily deprived of his life except in accordance with procedure established by law.
“The prospect of extrajudicial killings and arbitrary arrests presents a deeply disconcerting opportunity for the abuse of power.
“Our collective legacy will harshly judge us if we remain silent in the face of such grave transgressions. It is imperative that the authorities act in full accordance with the law, ensuring that justice is served for both the victims and the accused parties involved.
“Moreover, we express deep concern over recent statements made by the Minister of Public Security, which implicate certain lawyers as conspirators with drug offenders.
“The absence of police accountability and the grant of unchecked impunity create an environment where no individual can feel secure. BASL underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and the protection of the rights of all individuals engaged in legal proceedings.
“In light of these disconcerting developments, BASL calls upon the authorities to promptly rectify these issues, hold the responsible parties accountable, and restore public trust in the justice system.
It is only by steadfastly upholding the principles of due process and ensuring the primacy of the rule of law that we can establish a society that is equitable and just for all its members.”
(Ms.) Nina P. Cainglet, Ambassador of the Philippines to Sri Lanka based in Dhaka, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya at the Prime Minister’s Office on May 16, 2025.
The Prime Minister welcomed Ambassador Cainglet and extended her congratulations on the new appointment. The discussion focused on expanding cooperation in trade and tourism, with both sides expressing their commitment to exploring new opportunities in these key sectors. The meeting also addressed consular matters relating to the Filipino community in Sri Lanka. In this regard, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured continued dialogue and necessary support on relevant issues.
The meeting was attended by Ms. Judienne Capiz, Vice Consul of the Embassy of the Philippines in Dhaka, Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Prime Minister; Ms. Sagarika Bogahawatta, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister; Ms. S.S. Premawardhane, Additional Secretary, Bilateral Political Affairs (East); and M.R. Keegel, Deputy Director, Southeast Asia & Central Asia Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division].
The Bribery Commission on Friday filed a corruption case against former Investment Promotion Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena and ex-BOI Director General Jayantha Edirisinghe, accusing them of misusing public cash for a lavish newspaper ad campaign back in 2014.
They stand accused of siphoning Rs. 1.7 million in state funds to publish 11 newspaper supplements marking the second inauguration anniversary of then-President Mahinda Rajapaksa on November 19, 2014.
According to the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC), the move amounted to a clear breach of anti-graft laws, with five formal charges now filed before the Colombo High Court.
The case, centred around alleged misuse of Board of Investment (BOI) funds, is backed by 21 pieces of documentary evidence and testimony from 15 witnesses.
The Bribery Commission maintains that the ad blitz had no official sanction and led to a direct loss of Rs. 1,748,877.76 to the state.
Inspector General of Police T.M.W. Deshabandu Tennakoon is set to face formal questioning tomorrow (May 19) over serious allegations of misconduct and abuse of power, parliamentary sources said on Friday.
A special committee appointed to investigate the claims will commence formal proceedings next week, following several rounds of preliminary discussions held within the parliamentary complex in recent weeks.
The IGP has been officially notified to appear before the committee and is expected to face the inquiry for the first time at 2:00 PM in Committee Room No. 8.
The committee, which met again on Thursday (15) to finalise arrangements, is investigating allegations that Tennakoon misused his official powers in a manner deemed severe and improper.
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