A demonstration organized by 'Api Sri Lankikayo' (We are Sri Lankans) today at 11 am (June 23) in Kilinochchi has been obstructed by security forces. There is a large military contingency placed at the venue and those who had arrived for the demonstration have been asked to leave Kilinochchi.

Campaign for Free and Fair Elections (CaFFE) and Centre for Human Rights (CHR) reiterates the need to protect the fundamental rights of residents of the North and East, especially the right to engage in political activity and freedom of peaceful assembly. 

Political activity is an essential part of a representative democracy. According to the government civil administration is now established in Kilinochchi, if that is the case the residents of the area has the political rights enjoyed by the other citizens of the country. However this incident is another example that there is a semi military rule in Kilinochchi. This is a violation of basic principles of democracy. Therefore in an atmosphere where there is no freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and movement holding a free and fair election is unrealistic. 

CHR and CaFFE demand the authorities to guarantee the fundamental rights of the citizens of North.

Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon                            Surangi Ariyawansha

Executive Director/CaFFE                             Director/Media (CHR Sri Lanka)

2011.06.23