August 31, Colombo (LNW): The government has reiterated its dedication to confronting the issue of enforced disappearances, pledging to pursue a path grounded in truth-seeking, justice, and sustained reparative support for affected families.
Speaking at a public awareness forum in Colombo, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Bimal Rathnayake underscored the necessity of establishing an independent Truth Commission. He emphasised that such a body would not only document past violations but also provide long-overdue recognition and closure to thousands of families still searching for answers.
According to the Minister, healing must be rooted in a transparent process that honours victims and holds those responsible to account.
He further noted that justice must extend beyond legal remedies to include tangible support for survivors, many of whom face economic hardship and social marginalisation. He confirmed that the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with other state bodies, has already begun laying the groundwork to ensure such assistance is made available in a structured and dignified manner.
Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara echoed these sentiments, stating that enforced disappearances represent deliberate and grave violations of human rights, which the state can no longer afford to sideline. He acknowledged the moral and political obligation to address these wrongs openly and systematically.
As part of this initiative, the Justice Ministry is currently developing a new framework to deliver long-term reparations, aiming to replace symbolic or short-term payments with a more meaningful, sustained approach to compensation. Officials suggest the mechanism will include educational opportunities for children of the disappeared, access to mental health support, and community-based reconciliation programmes.
