Ananda, resign from the ministerial post immediately - UNP announces

The United National Party (UNP) has issued a special statement strongly condemning the assassination of Attorney-at-Law Buddhika Mallawaarachchi and his wife, warning that this crime poses a serious threat to the rule of law and the integrity of the legal system in Sri Lanka.

The party points out that this shooting, which occurred in broad daylight on February 13, will have a significant adverse impact on law and order, and emphasizes that law and order in the country have already been severely weakened due to a series of recent assassinations.

The statement further notes that this assassination aligns with incidents in other countries around the world where attacks and threats against legal professionals have obstructed the process of justice.

The United National Party has also expressed its deep concern regarding the investigations into this assassination, and has questioned the ability of authorities to conduct an impartial inquiry, alleging that politicization has occurred within the Police Department.

In light of this situation, the party calls for immediate action and insists that the Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs should resign from his position immediately.

Furthermore, they urge the government to appoint a suitable investigative team with the consultation of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, and to take necessary administrative or legislative steps to implement the protective provisions outlined in the Council of Europe Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer.

The United National Party has stated in its announcement that it will provide its full support to any effort made to ensure adequate protection for lawyers in Sri Lanka.