Use of PTA Without Immediate Threats Raises Serious Concerns, Says Ali Sabry

06-Jun-2026

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Former Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has stated that invoking the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) in the absence of an immediate threat of terrorism or insurrection suggests that there is insufficient evidence to pursue charges under ordinary criminal law.

His comments come amid growing criticism of the Government following the arrest of 24-year-old Kilinochchi-based singer Sangeerthanan under the PTA for allegedly performing a song deemed to be of an insurrectionary nature.

In a post published on his official Facebook page, Sabry argued that the use of the PTA in such circumstances reflects a lack of adequate evidence to proceed through normal legal channels.

He warned that, in such cases, the focus shifts away from the administration of justice and towards the exercise of extraordinary powers that may facilitate arbitrary detention, imprisonment without due process, harassment, and intimidation outside the safeguards of the law.

Sabry further stated that many people had believed the current Government was elected to strengthen the rule of law, uphold the separation of powers, and prevent the recurrence of practices that undermine democratic governance.

Before attempts are made to dismiss such criticism, he added, it is important to acknowledge that similar actions were taken in the past. However, previous violations cannot be used as justification for continuing such practices in the present, he stressed.