Government Has No Intention of Repealing PTA, Claims Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe

25-Jun-2026

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Former Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe has alleged that the present Government has no intention of repealing the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).

He stated that if the Government genuinely wished to do so, it could have implemented the alternative legislation that he had previously introduced.

Rajapakshe pointed out that several members of the current Government had strongly opposed the proposed Anti-Terrorism Bill when it was presented in Parliament and had demanded the complete repeal of the PTA.

He recalled that during parliamentary debates under previous administrations, current Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath had argued that a country not facing armed conflict had no need for new anti-terrorism legislation and had called for the repeal of existing laws.

However, Rajapakshe said the Government is now facing criticism for continuing to use the PTA.

He cited the detention of a former intelligence officer under stringent conditions as an example.

While clarifying that he does not oppose criminal investigations, he expressed concern over alleged abuses carried out under the law.

According to him, committees are being appointed merely to prolong the life of the legislation rather than to replace it.