Civil society demands clearer rules on presidential pardon process

Civil society organisations have intensified calls for the government to create a formal, transparent framework governing presidential pardons, raising questions about the decision-making process in sensitive cases.

Representatives from multiple civil society groups, including activist Gamini Viyangoda, have criticised delays in taking action following court rulings. The organisations argue that without clear guidelines and timelines, the pardon system remains opaque and vulnerable to inconsistent application.

The push comes amid concerns over the handling of requests involving individuals whose cases have been subject to judicial determination. Civil society groups contend that presidential clemency powers must be exercised within defined parameters that respect court decisions and maintain public accountability.

The government has yet to respond formally to the calls for establishing a standardised mechanism. Observers note that creating such a framework would require balancing the executive's constitutional authority to grant pardons with principles of judicial independence and rule of law.

The debate underscores broader discussions in Sri Lanka about transparency in governance and the need for institutional checks on executive powers.