Presidential Commission of Inquiry should be appointed; Udaya Gammanpila

16-Jul-2026

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A fully empowered Presidential Commission of Inquiry should be appointed to investigate the Negombo Prison clash, former Minister and leader of Pivithuru Hela Urumaya Udaya Gammanpila said.

He stated that independent investigations cannot be expected while Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, who has been accused in connection with the incident, remains in office.

He made these remarks while speaking to the media regarding the Negombo Prison clash.

Speaking further, he said:

“Today, all prisons are being managed like a ship without a captain.

Former Commissioner General of Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya was removed from office over the issue of presidential pardons. Although the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka stated that the manner in which he was removed was unlawful, the government has failed to correct that mistake.

The post of Commissioner General of Prisons still remains vacant. The government has failed to appoint a qualified person to this position. This reflects the weakness of the government’s administrative structure.

The government must fully accept responsibility for the Negombo Prison clash. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake had previously stated that the government should be accountable for clashes and deaths occurring inside prisons. However, he is currently silent regarding the Negombo Prison incident.

A fully empowered Presidential Commission of Inquiry must be appointed to investigate the Negombo Prison clash.

Independent investigations cannot be expected while Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, who faces allegations, continues to hold office.

We will discuss the allegations against the Justice Minister directly with the public in the coming days,” he said.