• Civil society, media, TUs and professionals write to Prez

The Coalition against Repressive Laws (CARL), in a letter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, requested the repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act as amended (PTA), the Online Safety Act (OSA), and other repressive laws that undermine fundamental rights and freedoms.

The CARL is made up of over 60 civil society organisations, media groups, trade unions (TUs) and professional associations.

The CARL claimed that the continued use of the PTA, which is a draconian law, represents a significant deviation from the positions previously upheld by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna-led National People’s Power, while the OSA severely undermines the freedom of expression by stifling dissent.

“The repeal of these repressive laws would reaffirm the Government’s dedication to upholding democracy and protecting human rights. Moving forward, we urge that all legislative processes be conducted in a democratic, transparent, and consultative manner,” the letter further read.