A protest organised by the People's Struggle Movement against the proposed Prevention of State Terrorism Act (PSTA) and the Prevention of Organised Crimes Act (POCA) was held near the Parliament Roundabout yesterday (4), amid heightened Police security in the area.

Police presence was increased at Polduwa Junction ahead of the demonstration, which began at the junction and proceeded towards the Parliament access road. Police had obtained a court order restricting the protest, which the demonstrators reportedly refused to accept.

The protest, which was also supported by the Frontline Socialist Party (FSP), caused heavy traffic congestion around the Parliament Roundabout and Polduwa Junction.

The demonstrators accused the Government of seeking to introduce repressive legislation that would undermine democracy and curtail civil liberties. They called on the Government to withdraw the proposed PSTA Bill, warning that its enactment could pave the way for authoritarian rule.

Protesters also accused the Government of going back on its promises to protect people's rights, arguing that the proposed legislation would be used to suppress those who had brought it to power.

Carrying placards and banners opposing the proposed laws, the demonstrators called for the withdrawal of both the PSTA and POCA. Some protesters also demanded the repeal of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA), calling for an end to what they described as arbitrary arrests and inhumane detention practices.

People's Struggle Movement National Executive Council member Wasantha Mudalige helped lead the demonstration and called on trade unions and advocates of democracy to join the campaign against the proposed legislation.

PHOTO Krishan Kariyawasam