US, EU ask govt. not to use force against peaceful protests

Both US Ambassador Julie Chung and the European Union have called on the government to ensure fundamental freedoms of people and against the use of force against peaceful protests.

Ambassador Chung issuing a message on her twitter handle, now known as X, said: “It is concerning to hear about the continued use of the PTA, including to arrest peaceful protesters, and about treatment of detainees in prisons. It’s vital to ensure freedom of expression and humane treatment of those in custody. Especially as the government looks to replace the PTA in line with its international commitments and implement key reforms, it must protect fundamental freedoms.”

Meanwhile, the EU office in Sri Lanka in a message on its X handle said: “Concerned about continued use of #PTA to make arrests. Authorities should bring the legislation in line with international standards and human rights conventions, and meanwhile stop using the PTA, as per their commitments.”