The present government will never take the law into its own hands, stated Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways Dr. Prasanna Gunasena.

Speaking to the media in Kandy on the 7th, the Deputy Minister made these remarks. He also stated that as he was not properly aware of the transfer of the Gampaha Magistrate, he could not comment on the matter before the media.

Key Points

  • Statement that the government will never take the law into its own hands
  • Remark that he is not properly aware of the Gampaha Magistrate's transfer
  • Revelation that the President has stated any issues in the new bills can be amended
  • Reaffirmation that the public retains the right to protest even with new laws

Public repression and the right to protest

He emphasised that although various parties claim the government is introducing laws to repress the public, there is no truth to it. Pointing out that laws already exist if there were any need to repress people, he noted that the President has very clearly stated that if there are any issues with the upcoming bills, they can be amended.

Stating that all these processes are being carried out with complete transparency, the Deputy Minister further said that even if the relevant bill is passed, the ability to protest will not be lost, and that protesting remains a right of the people both now and in the future.

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