Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Premadasa warns government Bills threaten fundamental freedoms
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has accused the government of using two new legislative measures to restrict citizens' fundamental and human rights. The SJB leader raised concerns about Bills targeting terrorism and organised crime during an address in Polonnaruwa.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sajith Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), warned yesterday that proposed government legislation aimed at combating terrorism and organised crime poses a threat to core democratic freedoms. Speaking at an event in Kusumgama, Gallalla, Polonnaruwa, the Opposition leader argued that citizens retain the constitutional right to practice their religion and exercise other fundamental liberties regardless of security concerns.
Premadasa's remarks reflect growing apprehension among opposition politicians regarding the scope and potential implications of the two Bills under government consideration. The legislation is framed as security measures, but critics contend the provisions may extend beyond their stated objectives.
The Opposition leader's statement underscores an ongoing political debate in Sri Lanka regarding the balance between national security measures and the protection of individual freedoms. Civil society groups have similarly raised questions about the Bills during parliamentary consultations and public forums across the country.
The government has not yet provided detailed responses to the specific concerns raised by Premadasa and other opposition figures regarding the compatibility of the proposed legislation with constitutional protections.