Canada concerned by political situation in Sri Lanka

October 29, 2018 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Global Affairs Canada today issued the following statement on the ongoing political developments in Sri Lanka:

“Canada remains deeply concerned by the political situation in Sri Lanka. We reiterate our call for all parties to refrain from violence and respect due process and the rule of law.

“Canada calls on President Maithripala Sirisena to immediately reconvene Parliament and rescind the decision to prorogue. The people of Sri Lanka deserve transparency and accountability. The Parliament of Sri Lanka—whose representatives have been duly elected by the people of Sri Lanka—must be afforded their constitutional responsibility to determine Sri Lanka’s prime minister.

“We also call upon the government to ensure the safety and security of journalists, activists and human rights defenders, who play a vital role in defending democracy.”