Probe on SL is of great importance-new UNHRC Chief

6 September 2014 03:15 pm Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 48 Bookmark

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The new UN Human Rights Chief Prince Zeid Ra'ad Zeid Al-Hussein of Jordan has remarked that he attaches great importance to the investigation on Sri Lanka led by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) while urging the Lankan authorities to cooperate with the investigation.

In a release copy of his first opening statement at a UNHRC session, which Zeid is due to deliver since his appointment as the new UN Human Rights Chief at the 27^th UNHRC sessions due to commence on Monday (8) he has called upon the Sri Lankan authorities to cooperate with the process in the interests of justice and reconciliation.

He has also expressed alarm at the reports on threats that have been leveled against Human Rights Defenders in the country as well as on prospective victims and witnesses.

Furthermore in his references on Sri Lanka, the new UN Human Rights Chief has also deplored the incitements and violence against the Muslim and Christian minorities in the country.

Meanwhile, an oral update is scheduled to be delivered on the probe led by the OHCHR on alleged abuses that were committed by both parties during the final phases of the war in Sri Lanka, despite delays to commence its operations.

The government of Sri Lanka has expressed optimism regarding the appointment of Zeid as the new UN Human Rights Chief, stating they believe he would act on matters concerning Sri Lanka with a proper understanding and by rectifying alleged shortcomings committed by his predecessor Navi Pillay.(Lakna Paranamanna)