Accusations of committing economic crimes at UNHRC, a first for SL: SJB

SJB MP Mujibur Rahman 

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) delegation to the 51st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) said it is concerned that Sri Lanka has now been accused of economic crimes at the session. 

“It is for the first time we as a country are facing an accusation such as this. The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is now accusing Sri Lanka of committing economic crimes,” SJB MP Mujibur Rahman said in a live video from Geneva. 

According to Rahman, it was stressed that those who are responsible for such economic crimes must be brought before the law. “The Government, the Opposition and the people are aware as to who committed these crimes. As Sri Lankans, we have a responsibility to hold those responsible accountable,” he noted. 

Rahman said partner countries stressed the importance of protecting human rights as only then, Sri Lanka would be able to gain much-needed support in this crisis situation. 

“At a time the country is facing a severe economic crisis, we believe it is important to protect human rights,” Rahman said, adding that however, the current Government through its actions has displayed disinterest in the protection of human rights. 

“The Government continues to repress those who protested against it in light of the economic crisis. Three students have been arrested under the PTA,” he said. Rahman said it is imperative for the Government to protect human rights to gain international support as stressed during the first day of the session.