A group of former Members of Parliament, including former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, has written to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressing concern over the detention of Major General (Retd) Suresh Sallay under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA).
The letter, titled “Let Us Establish the Rule of Law,” has also been signed by former ministers Dullas Alahapperuma and Dilan Perera, along with former MPs including D.B. Herath and Dr. Gunapala Rathnasekera.
In their letter, the former lawmakers expressed concern over the treatment of the former intelligence chief, stating that there is public empathy and respect for his role in safeguarding the country’s unity during periods of terrorism.
They said their decision to directly appeal to the President was prompted by what they described as “irresponsible reactions or silence” from relevant authorities, and stressed that their concerns go beyond partisan politics.
The group noted that General Sallay has been detained for over three months under a detention order issued by the President in his capacity as Minister of Defence under the PTA, rather than a judicial order.
They said this has contributed to public debate and concern.
They further pointed to allegations of harsh treatment, citing statements made in court by senior legal counsel and references to biological and scientific evidence contained in a Judicial Medical Officer’s report.
While acknowledging that General Sallay is a suspect in connection with the Easter Sunday attacks, the signatories said he is also remembered for his role during a critical period for national security.
The former MPs argued that non-partisan citizens are now questioning whether the basic protections normally afforded to suspects—including the presumption of innocence—are being upheld in his case.
They clarified that their appeal is not intended to weaken ongoing investigations or accountability in relation to the Easter Sunday attacks, stressing that justice for victims must not be delayed.
The letter also emphasised that all investigative processes must remain within credible legal frameworks and free from political influence.
Referring to past incidents of custodial deaths, including the killing of JVP founder Rohana Wijeweera while in police custody, the former legislators warned that such episodes should not be repeated in a democratic society.
They concluded by urging the President to review the matter objectively, treat General Sallay as an ordinary suspect under the law, and ensure his right to equality before the law is protected.
Latest News
Five IAF personnel killed after an AN-32 aircraft crashes at Jorhat airbase in Assam
India's FTAs set stage for $1 trillion export target
Lithuania says airspace incident was cause by weather balloon, not drone
Pakistan budget raises defence spending, squeezes development to meet IMF goals
US Justice Department clears Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros
General Suresh Sallay continues hunger strike for sixth day
Trump says US military strike killed leader of Venezuela's Tren de Aragua gang
US forces shoot down Iranian attack drones
Indigenous land rights to be expedited, PM tells Wannila Aththo
Thousands gather for Seoul queer festival
