Sri Lanka is moving to establish a Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) to handle criminal cases independently, Minister of Justice Harshana Nanayakkara confirmed. The new entity will operate alongside the Attorney General’s Department, focusing solely on legal and evidential considerations rather than government policy. A draft framework is expected by April, followed by public consultations.
The Justice Ministry is also revising the Protection of the State from Terrorism bill after widespread domestic and international criticism. While some view the law as a threat to democracy, experts like Professor Rohan Gunaratna argue robust legislation is crucial to counter LTTE remnants, global extremist networks, and digital radicalization.
Gunaratna highlighted the need to strengthen rehabilitation programs for former extremists and called on religious and community leaders to support efforts to prevent the resurgence of terrorism. The government’s combined push for an independent prosecutor, law reforms, and enhanced security measures signals a determined strategy to safeguard Sri Lanka against evolving internal and global threats.
