Opposition questions Rishad’s detention

(FASTNEWS | COLOMBO) – Concerns were raised in Parliament by former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella today (04) regarding the prolonged arrest and detention of the Leader of All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) and Vanni District Parliamentarian Rishad Bathiudeen.

It has been 164-days since Parliamentarian Rishad Bathiudeen had been disgracefully arrested from his home on account of alleged connections to the Easter attacks. However, no charges have been placed until this date and no evidence has surfaced indicating his guilt.

Former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing Parliament stated that charges had been filed against every other person purportedly involved in the Easter attacks but no charges have been levelled against Bathiudeen.

He went on to say that since Bathiudeen was a Parliamentarian, it was a Parliamentary affair, and details and evidences concerning the case should also be shared with Parliament proactively. He also said that a portion of the report on the Easter attacks also was withheld from Parliament and that it should be released so that Parliament may make a better judgement on the case.

Wickremesinghe also acknowledged that the Officials involved in the investigation worked diligently and responsibly and helped to control the crisis situation. He was the Minister in charge of Law and Order at the time, and therefore he claimed to be aware of the burden upon the Officials.

Chief Opposition Whip Lakshman Kiriella addressing the matter claimed that the Speaker, as the Chief Protector of the Rights of Parliamentarians, had a responsibility to put forward a written request demanding reasons for the arrest. He pointed out that Bathiudeen has been detained without a charge, and that procedure as set out in the British Standing Orders ought to apply.

To this, the Speaker of Parliament Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena claimed he did request for reasons, but committed no further to the question.