By: Isuru Parakrama
October 14, Colombo (LNW): The Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES) has raised concerns over the recent reappointment of Shani Abeysekera to the police service, stating it was not done at an appropriate time.
According to a statement issued by the organisation yesterday (13), IRES believes the timing of Abeysekera’s return to a senior position in the police force, during an active election campaign, raises serious questions.
Manjula Gajanayake, Executive Director of IRES, expressed particular unease over the decision to appoint Abeysekera as the director of a police unit. The issue stems from Abeysekera’s involvement in supporting the National People’s Power (NPP) during the previous presidential election, when he was part of a group of retired police officers advocating for the party’s victory.
This background, Gajanayake suggests, adds a layer of controversy to the timing of his reinstatement, especially with the ongoing electoral preparations.
The announcement by IRES highlights the broader concerns about ensuring neutrality and maintaining public trust in state institutions when the country is approaching a pivotal election.
Gajanayake stressed that decisions of this nature should be approached with caution to avoid any perceptions of bias or undue influence, especially when the integrity of the electoral process is paramount.
