• Claims definition of ‘terrorism’ too broad, and can be harmful

The ruling Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) stated that it would support the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill (ATB) only if it is amended to shorten the broad definition of terrorism, and steps are taken to remove the powers that are to be given to Police officers to issue detention orders (DO).

The ATB, if passed in Parliament, will replace the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA).

Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (7), SLPP General Secretary and MP, Attorney Sagara Kariyawasam, said that the broad definition of terrorism contained in the ATB could lead to adverse situations. He said that the possibility to define even an ordinary act of protest as a terrorist activity through such a definition could bring negative consequences to the people and the democratic framework. 

“We understand that terrorism is something with a broad scope, but we do not think that a definition as broad as that contained in this Bill is necessary. Therefore, it must be narrowed down as much as possible.”

He also said that it is not acceptable that the Bill has presented provisions that authorise Police officers to issue DOs on suspects who are arrested by the security forces on charges of terrorism-related acts. “We know that most of the Police officers are good, but there may be a handful of Police officers who are working for various other purposes. Therefore, we strongly believe that such a provision is not necessary. This can be very harmful to the people. Also, by giving this kind of power to Police officers, judicial affairs will also be affected." he said.

Speaking further, Kariyawasam said that the SLPP's position of supporting the Bill, if it is amended in a manner that is consistent with the above facts, has already been communicated to the relevant parties. 

“Our country faced a terrible war for 30 years. Thereafter, we faced a series of terrorist attacks in 2019. We accept that this country, which has seen many such acts of terrorism, needs new legal provisions to combat terrorism. Therefore, if this Bill is amended in the way that we expect, then, there is no problem with supporting it.”

In the past, several parties including both local and international organisations have been urging the Sri Lankan authorities to repeal the PTA, which is usually referred to as a piece of ‘draconian legislation. The ATB was proposed to replace the PTA. However, the Parliamentary Opposition political parties, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, and many rights advocates have raised deep concerns about the Bill, and have claimed that the proposed Bill is more adverse than the existing PTA.