Sajith Premadasa Calls for Independent Probe into Death of Ishara Harshana in Police Custody

Opposition leader demands transparent investigation

Premadasa said an independent investigation was necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the death and determine whether those responsible had failed in their duties.

He argued that the failure to protect a person held in police custody raised serious concerns about constitutional safeguards and the rule of law.

Concerns over proposed security legislation

The Opposition Leader also criticised two proposed laws concerning organised crime and the prevention of terrorist threats against the state.

He argued that certain provisions in the proposed legislation could threaten the administration of justice, the rule of law and the fundamental rights of citizens.

According to Premadasa, the laws could restrict democratic freedoms, including freedom of expression, political freedom and the right to peaceful assembly. He warned that such restrictions could move the country towards authoritarian or one-party rule.

He maintained that protecting democracy was a responsibility of every government and said the authorities had no mandate to undermine democratic rights.

Calls for rights-based approach to national security

Premadasa said national security legislation should comply with international standards and conventions while providing effective legal measures to combat organised criminal groups.

He argued that efforts to ensure public safety should not come at the expense of civil liberties and fundamental human rights.

The Opposition Leader said justice must be served in Harshana’s case and called for opposition to any measures that could undermine democratic governance. He added that he was prepared to provide leadership to efforts aimed at defeating what he described as attempts to establish authoritarian rule.