Cabinet nod to appoint committee to draft laws on national security

The Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Monday approved the appointment of a committee to introduce a comprehensive legal framework to strengthen national security.

The objective of the committee is to overcome shortcomings in existing anti-terrorism laws, enforce the law, and strengthen investigations and supervision.

The proposal also includes introducing regulations in line with terrorism and extremist violence.

In addition, the Cabinet paper has proposed to appoint a committee to compile a comprehensive legal system pertaining to national security by focusing on relevant issues and considering international standards and recommendations related to the protection of human rights.

The proposal revealed that importance will be given to introducing a broad national security framework.

The committee will be chaired by the Justice Ministry Secretary.

The proposal to this effect was jointly submitted by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as Defence Minister, Justice, Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, and Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry.

On 23 August, the Government revealed plans to introduce a fresh Act for national security repealing the controversial and archaic Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

Sri Lanka drew heavy criticism from human rights activists, international organisations, and foreign governments after President Wickremesinghe approved to use of the provisions of the PTA to arrest and detain persons who have been involved in protests against the Government.