UNP condemns allegations made by President regarding Easter Sunday attacks

• The party said the Presidential Commission of Inquiry report has found neither the former Prime Minister nor any former Minister of the Cabinet were responsible for the attacks
• It is not surprising that Sri Lanka, under this current government, has not been invited for the virtual summit on Democracy hosted by the USA

By Yohan Perera   

The United National Party (UNP) yesterday condemned the recent allegations levelled by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa with regard to the Easter Sunday attacks while opening the elevated highway, which was a project initiated by the previous government.    

The UNP in an official statement said 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 were 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,” the statement said.   
“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 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 when statements of anti-democratic nature are made,” the statement added.   

• 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