In a significant policy shift, the Ministry of Justice has launched preliminary steps to repeal Sri Lanka’s controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), aiming to replace it with legislation that better aligns with international human rights standards and addresses modern security threats. The initiative, led by Minister of Justice and National Integration, Harshana Nanayakkara, marks a major development in the country’s approach to balancing national security with civil liberties.
A special committee has been appointed to oversee the repeal process, chaired by President’s Counsel Rienzi Arsakularatne. The committee includes legal experts, senior government officials, and representatives from key ministries, including Justice, Defense, Public Security, Foreign Affairs, and the Attorney General’s Department. The Bar Association of Sri Lanka and Sri Lanka Police are also represented.
Minister Nanayakkara underscored the government’s firm policy to retire the decades-old legislation, stating that the current PTA does not reflect the values of a democratic society. He emphasized that the new legal framework must empower Sri Lanka to combat global terrorism effectively, without infringing on constitutionally guaranteed freedoms such as the right to expression and association.
Criticizing past administrations for failing to act decisively, the Minister urged the newly appointed committee to move swiftly, noting that progress must be made within a short time frame. He specifically directed the committee to begin public consultations and outreach to civil society organizations by early May. The Minister also stressed the importance of gathering input from international institutions and human rights bodies to ensure the law aligns with global standards.
Also participating in the high-level discussion were Additional Solicitor General President’s Counsel Nerin Pulle, MP and Attorney-at-Law Lakmali Hemachandra, Senior DIG Asanga Karawita, and Attorney-at-Law Upul Kumarapperuma. Their presence reflected the wide scope of institutional collaboration behind this legislative reform.
The move to repeal the PTA follows years of criticism by local and international observers who have accused it of enabling prolonged detentions without trial and undermining due process. If successful, this initiative could signal a turning point in Sri Lanka’s legal and political commitment to upholding human rights while maintaining national security.
