Amnesty Int condemns death row decision
Amnesty International says it is shocked by President Maithripala Sirisena’s decision to sign the death warrants of four prisoners jailed on drug-related offenses.
Amnesty International noted the lack of transparency of the process makes it impossible to ascertain whether prisoners have exhausted clemency appeals, or if all safeguards were followed in their conviction or sentencing.
The statement stressed there is also no confirmation that the four prisoners, or their families, have been alerted to their imminent execution.
South Asia Director at Amnesty International Biraj Patnaik said “At a time when other countries have come to the realisation that their drug control policies are in need of reform, and are taking steps to reduce the use of the death penalty, Sri Lanka is bucking the trend. This will be devastating to the country’s international reputation and we hope that President Sirisena will reconsider his decision.”
Amnesty has repeatedly called on President Sirisena to halt his plans to resume executions, making clear that the death penalty does not have a unique deterrent effect on crime.
(Source: News Radio)
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka declares essential services to ensure recovery after Cyclone Ditwah January 31, 2026
- Sri Lanka disburses Rs. 50,000 relief to 70% of Cyclone Ditwah victims January 31, 2026
- Sri Lanka to launch national review on social media’s impact on children January 30, 2026
- Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia move to boost industrial cooperation January 30, 2026
- Johnston Fernando, two sons and others further remanded until February 13, 2026 January 30, 2026
