• This individual was identified by police as the person responsible for organising this public demonstration

The United National Party (UNP) said in a statement that it is deeply concerned by the reports of the arrest of an individual allegedly involved in the recent honking of car horns at the vehicular convoy of a VIP.  

According to media reports this individual was identified by police as the person responsible for organising this public demonstration. The UNP requests that the Government clearly explains what was the reason behind the arrest of this individual.  

The statement said the police had reportedly reacted to a video that has gone viral on social media portraying motorists honking their horns at a passing VIP convoy.  

While recognising that the security of visiting foreign dignitaries cannot be compromised, there appeared to have been no threat to the VIP or any fellow citizens. The police must confirm under what charges this individual has been arrested and whether or not any threat was posed to the VIP by these actions.  

The UNP also reminds the Prime Minister of his comment in May 2019 stating that “the displeasure shown by the public against the closure of roads for VIP vehicular movements by unceasingly sounding the horn were a reaction to the Government’s policies.”  

 On that occasion the then UNP led Government did not resort to any form of legal action to quell public anger.   This arrest has demonstrated this Government’s insecurity and inability to tolerate any form of public opposition. We urge the authorities to ensure that the freedom of speech and freedom of expression is upheld. 

• This arrest has demonstrated this Government’s insecurity and inability to tolerate any form of public opposition