Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated in Parliament that the Government does not act to protect any individual based on their status, stressing that this is clearly reflected in the judicial processes currently underway.
She made these remarks in response to a question raised by Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Ajith P. Perera, according to the Prime Minister’s Media Division.
The Prime Minister said that in line with the policy framework “A Thriving Nation, A Beautiful Life” presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake as the National People’s Power presidential candidate at the 2024 Presidential Election, the Government is committed to upholding the rule of law and maintaining an independent judiciary.
Accordingly, steps are being taken to review cases that were previously withdrawn by the Bribery Commission and the Attorney General’s Department, and to re-file cases where appropriate. She noted that during the period from 2019 to 2024, a total of 102 cases had been withdrawn. Of these, action has been taken to re-file 65 cases, while a decision has been made not to re-file 34 cases. A further three cases are still under consideration.
Referring to the ongoing judicial process, the Prime Minister said it is evident that the Government is not acting to protect anyone, as legal proceedings are currently underway against several individuals, including those who are in Parliament as well as those outside it.
She added that certain incidents dating back 15 to 20 years are now being re-investigated and prosecutions initiated accordingly, noting that such legal processes inevitably require time.
Emphasizing that decisions are not made based on the status or position of individuals, the Prime Minister said all necessary actions are being taken strictly in accordance with the evidence available in each case. She reiterated that the Government will not protect anyone under any circumstances.
She further remarked that it is “laughable” for those who had protected one another under previous governments to now question the integrity of the judicial process when it is being carried out properly, the statement added.
