Keheliya claims due process followed in Presidential pardon of Duminda

Cabinet Co-Spokesman Minister Keheliya Rambukwella yesterday claimed that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa followed the due process in pardoning convict Ex-MP Duminda Silva.

During a poser at the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing, Rambukwella said that the pardon was as per provisions of the Constitution. 

Last week, the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) condemned the pardon, saying the move was unreasonable and arbitrary and will result in erosion to the rule of law and loss of public confidence in justice. 

BASL also questioned whether the pardon was granted in accordance with the report of the trial judges, AG’s advice and recommendation of the Justice Minister.

In a statement, BASL also insisted President Rajapaksa must make public the reasons as to why the case of Silva stands out from others who are currently sentenced.