Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya assured Parliament today that the government is committed to securing justice for the family of slain journalist Lasantha Wickrematunga.
Her comments come after a letter from Ahimsa Wickrematunga, daughter of the late editor, urging the Prime Minister to impeach Attorney General Parinda Ranasinghe.
In her letter, Ahimsa accused the Attorney General of abusing power and neglecting duty by recommending the discharge of three suspects in her father’s murder case.
“I plan to respond to the letter personally,” Amarasuriya said. “Our government’s position on this case is very clear. We intend to seek justice for the murder of Lasantha Wickrematunga,” the Premier said noting that it has always been the position of her party.
She acknowledged Ahimsa’s concerns assuring that justice will be delivered. “I well understand Ahimsa’s concerns and the agony she must be feeling right now. But I will assure her that we will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is delivered on this matter.”
Amarasuriya added that while the government respects the independence of the Attorney General’s office, it is also exploring the possibility of filing fresh indictments in the case. She noted that extensive discussions had taken place, including a meeting between the President and those involved, to determine the next steps.
Responding to the Prime Minister’s remarks, MP Rauff Hakeem called for a parliamentary debate on the Attorney General’s Department, criticizing its handling of the case.
“The Attorney General’s response is based on a weak argument regarding an error in the identification parade,” Hakeem said. “Your government pledged in its manifesto to establish an independent prosecutor’s office instead of allowing the Attorney General to directly handle such cases. We believe prosecutorial discretion is being used selectively to free certain individuals.”
Amarasuriya said the government is prepared to allocate a full day for a debate on the issue. (Newswire)