Concerns raised over proposed replacement for Prevention of Terrorism Act

16-Feb-2026

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Former Human Rights Commission member and civil society activist Ambika Satkunanathan has raised serious concerns with European Union officials over the government’s proposed legislation intended to replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

The government, which came to power promising to repeal the PTA, is now proposing a new law framed as protecting the state from terrorism, she said during a meeting in Colombo with EU officials attending the 27th EU–Sri Lanka Joint Commission meeting.

Satkunanathan provided a detailed briefing on what she described as deeply problematic provisions in the proposed legislation. She also highlighted severe overcrowding in prisons across the country and warned of its impact on inmates.

She expressed disappointment that the death penalty remains in place despite repeated promises to abolish it and also discussed proposed laws relating to drug offences and organized crime.