Coalition requests fair trial for Kamer

• Silent vigil today at 4.30 p.m. for Kamer at Independence Square

By Skandha Gunasekara

A coalition of civil society and rights groups have issued a public statement calling on the Australian Government to ensure fair treatment of Kamer Nizamdeen and to expedite investigations into his arrest. 

Highlighting the fact that Nizamdeen, who was arrested 30 August, had not been given legal representation neither at the time of his arrest or when he was produced before judicial authorities, the statement called upon the Australian Government to “ensure that Kamer is provided with the full range of fair trial rights, including the right to frequently communicate with and receive advice from his attorney.”

Describing Sri Lanka’s Prevention of Terrorism Act as “one of the most draconian counter-terrorism laws in the world”, the coalition condemned the use of Australia’s counter-terrorism laws in the case of Nizamdeen. 

The coalition also called upon the Sri Lankan Ministry of Foreign Affairs to monitor the case and to “insist that the Australian Government protect Kamer’s fundamental rights”.

“We accordingly call upon the Australian Government to ensure that investigations into allegations against Kamer are concluded expeditiously, and that he is guaranteed the right to communicate regularly with his family. We further call upon the Australian Government to ensure that Kamer is provided with the full range of fair trial rights, including the right to frequently communicate with and receive advice from his attorney.

Further, we call upon the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Sri Lanka to continue to monitor Kamer’s case, ensure regular visits by the Consulate, obtain information from Australian authorities and update his family and the public on the case, and insist that the Australian Government protect Kamer’s fundamental rights.”

Furthermore, a silent vigil has been organised today at 4.30 p.m. at the Independence Square to support Kamer Nizamdeen and to appeal for an expeditious, full and fair investigation.