Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka set to replace PTA with new counter-terrorism legislation
The National People's Power government is moving forward with plans to repeal the Prevention of Terrorism Act, a cornerstone campaign promise, and introduce replacement counter-terrorism legislation.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Sri Lanka's newly elected National People's Power (NPP) administration is advancing plans to dismantle the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), fulfilling a key electoral commitment made during its campaign for office.
The government intends to introduce the State Protection from Terrorism Bill as a substitute framework for counter-terrorism operations. This legislative transition marks a significant shift in the country's approach to national security matters, as the PTA has been a contentious law since its implementation.
The PTA has faced sustained criticism from civil society organizations and international human rights bodies, who have cited concerns over its broad provisions and potential for misuse. The replacement legislation is intended to address these concerns while maintaining the state's capacity to respond to security threats.
The move represents one of the NPP's initial policy implementations following its electoral victory. Government officials have indicated that the new bill will provide a more targeted legal framework for addressing terrorism-related activities in the country.
Details regarding the specific provisions and timeline for the bill's introduction to parliament remain to be formally announced by the administration.