Statement by United National Party
The United National Party condemns the recent allegations levelled by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in regards the Easter Sunday attacks, while declaring open the elevated highway which was a project initiated by the previous Government.
The UNP would like to point out that neither the Presidential Commission of Inquiry report nor the Select Committee of Parliament report have stated that the former Prime Minister nor any former Minister of the Cabinet responsible for the attacks.
What the President is suggesting is that persons not responsible for the Easter Sunday Attacks, and against whom there are no judicial decisions to that effect, be deprived of their Civic Rights by legislation.
This is contrary to the fundamental principles of Democracy. This brings into conflict the judicial and legislative process. Therefore, this also violates article 3 and 4 of the Constitution of Sri Lanka. This statement is also a violation of the President’s oath to uphold the Constitution.
It is with the background of this statement that it is not surprising that Sri Lanka, under this current Government, has not been invited for the virtual summit on Democracy hosted by the United States of America.
Central Media Unit
28th November 2021