UN Chief encouraged by Sri Lanka response to war crimes report

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Ban Ki Moon has noted that he was encouraged by the response of the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) towards the recently released UN report on the country as well as the commitment expressed by the Government to implement effective measures to address issues of accountability.

In a statement issued by the UNSG on Thursday, he stated that he is also encouraged by the commitment expressed by the GoSL to consult widely with all stakeholders in designing mechanisms to address the existing issues pertaining to alleged abuses that occurred during the conflict period.

While stating the Secretary-General welcomes the report on Sri Lanka, the statement further adds, “He hopes that its important recommendations will help support the efforts of the people and the Government of Sri Lanka to carve a durable path toward long-lasting peace and stability and respect for human rights, through a genuine and credible process of accountability and reconciliation that meets international standards.

The victims of all communities, their families and the Sri Lankan nation itself demand no less than a full and proper reckoning.” He has also commended the action plan presented by the government at the opening session of the 30th UNHRC session while urging the Government to ‘continue building on this positive momentum and the international community to support Sri Lanka in this regard’.

It was during a media briefing last afternoon that Foreign Affairs Minister Mangala Samaraweera said that the four-tiered accountability mechanism presented by the government of Sri Lanka to which includes a domestic inquiry process, would be established by end of January 2016 following consultations with all stakeholders on its design and particulars.

He also confirmed an international role in the process in the capacity of expert advice and technical assistance. The proposed four-tiered mechanism activities are planned to conclude within 18 months.