Revised anti-terrorism bill; Western missions optimistic, but skeptical on implementation

By Kelum Bandara

Following a briefing by Foreign Minister Ali Sabry and Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, the Western diplomatic missions which emphasized the need for the revision of the anti-terrorism bill remain optimistic about the latest version but, at the same time, skeptical about its implementation due to challenges involved as foreseen by them, Daily Mirror learns. 

The enactment of an anti-terrorism law, in place of the current Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), is even envisaged in the latest resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The government worked out a piece of legislation this year, yet Western countries including European Union, expressed concerns about it saying that the new bill is not aligned with the international standards on counter terrorism legislation.   

Afterwards, the government revised it and briefed the diplomatic community last week.   

A Western diplomat who attended the briefing said the details presented are promising, but a proper assessment will be done once the final version is published. He said it would be premature to conclude whether the draft has complied with international standards.   

“Regarding implementation, I see a lot of challenges for the administration, the security forces and the judiciary. Therefore, we are optimistic, and at the same time, skeptical,” he said