The gazette declaring ‘high-security zones’ in several areas of Colombo issued by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as the Minister of Defence could be reversed, as informed sources claim that the Attorney General has been instructed to look into the matter.
The President recently issued this gazette based on facts and recommendations submitted by a group of high-ranking officials at the Ministry of Public Security, but the declaration could have severe impacts on business activities in the central economic zone of Colombo, a team of economic experts told the President in a thoroughly formulated presentation, according to sources.
Despite the severe economic damage occurred due to the occasional protests in Colombo being still in effect, other problems may arise through a decree to designate HSZ, the team pointed out.
Following consideration, the President has given instructions to the relevant departments spearheaded by the Ministry of Public Security to remove these HSZ and formulate a special security programme in coordination with the intelligence units, sources further disclosed.
The atmosphere to lift the decree is already in formation, but the removal of HSZ may take place after President Wickremesinghe’s return from Japan, given that his signature is required to proceed with the action and that he is currently committed to an official tour in Tokyo, sources further added.