Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Activist criticises government delay in enforcing monk arrest warrant
Civil society campaigner Gamini Viyangoda has accused the NPP administration of foot-dragging over the arrest of Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary Ven. Galagodaatte Gnanasara following a Supreme Court decision to cancel his presidential pardon.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Viyangoda voiced his criticism on Monday, stating that the government has failed to act with sufficient urgency after the Supreme Court invalidated the pardon that had been granted to the prominent Buddhist monk. The Court of Appeal subsequently issued a warrant for Ven. Gnanasara's arrest, but authorities have not yet apprehended him.
The civil society activist's comments reflect growing concern among sections of the public that the government may be reluctant to enforce the court's orders against a figure with significant influence in Buddhist nationalist circles. Viyangoda's remarks suggest a perception of political favouritism regarding the handling of the case.
The Supreme Court's decision to annul the presidential pardon represents a significant legal development, marking a rare instance in which such a pardon has been overturned. The subsequent failure to immediately execute the arrest warrant has drawn scrutiny regarding the government's commitment to upholding judicial determinations, particularly when they involve high-profile religious figures.
The case has become a focal point for debate over the independence of Sri Lanka's legal system and the government's willingness to enforce court orders impartially, regardless of the social or political standing of those involved.