Archives

Empowering the police

It is with some consternation that readers would have received the news yesterday that among a large haul of unauthorised firearms seized by the Special Investigation Unit of the Chilaw Police, were several such weapons which were distributed among some persons by sections of the police themselves.

According to the report, these arms were handed over to these persons at the behest of political big wigs during the tenure of the previous administration.

This development alone shows the continuing vulnerability of the law enforcement authorities to political interference and pressure. Needless to say, one of the best guarantees against such dangerous meddling is the independence of the law enforcers. It is this independence and strength which is promised by the 17th Amendment to the Constitution, which is, unfortunately, proving to be still-born at the moment. An Independent Police Commission, coupled with Independent Election and Public Service Commissions would have rendered the current controversies relating to the degree of freedom and fairness in the conduct of polls, unnecessary.

Nevertheless, we are happy to note that the Prime Minister has taken the important step of holding some categories of senior police officers accountable for any election-linked violence and irregularities. This would put the onus on these officers to ensure a clean local government poll or face disciplinary action.

Joining Premier Wickremesinghe in this call for a duty-conscious and efficient police force was Interior Minister John Amaratunga, who was quoted as calling for a strong and well disciplined Police Department, at a recent function.

These sentiments are bound to be echoed by the majority of well-meaning persons in this country. The foundation of a stable society is, indeed, a disciplined and efficient police force which could prove sturdily independent at all times. A duty is cast on the rulers of the land to ensure that law enforcement agencies measure-up to these standards.

It is a matter beyond dispute that the police should be sufficiently empowered to do their duties effectively. The establishment of safeguards to protect the police against political interference and pressure, cannot be indefinitely stalled. Such procrastination would only ensure an enfeebled society.

Let's not forget the lessons of history. Political meddling with the police in the past, contributed amply towards the weakening of democratic institutions in the country.

Irregular senior appointments in the force, for instance, ensured that the police acted in a partisan manner at times of crisis. Thus began public disenchantment with law enforcers and their loss of independence. It is time to reverse these destructive trends. Decision-makers need to put the country above partisan, political interests.

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries |

Produced by Lake House
Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager