A most timely and needed probe

In a highly commendatory move, the Government has invited an independent international commission to probe abductions, disappearances and extra-judicial killings in all parts of the country. This measure is bound to be welcomed by all peace-loving sections in Sri Lanka.

Besides putting the record straight on many mysterious deaths and disappearances, such a commission would enhance the authority of the State as an impartial entity which is committed to upholding the Rule of Law.

There are sections in this country which are currently engaged in casting aspersions on the State over these sinister developments and nothing would be timelier than an impartial probe on them by an independent authority with no local links. Through such a process, the State would be in a position to soundly rebuff its critics and prove beyond doubt that it is well beyond reproof.

The investigation under consideration would also help in establishing the identity of the sinister forces behind the acts of lawlessness which have been befuddling many, including the law and order agencies of the State. As for murders and disappearances in the North-East, it is bound to be revealed that the LTTE is behind many of them, including the killing in Trincomalee recently of 17 aid workers. Such disclosures would help in establishing and in reinforcing in the minds of the global public the irredeemably terroristic nature of the LTTE.

Therefore, the proposed probe would be beneficial in the task of fully unmasking the Tigers and in turning world opinion against them. Hopefully, the State and its agencies would fully exploit such opportunities to expose the LTTE in the eyes of the world. Concurrently, a concerted move also needs to be made by the State to muster the support of world governments to alienate the LTTE and steadily undermine it.

Therefore, the proposed probe does credit to the State and helps in establishing its bona fides. What is left to be done is to fully implement the proposal and that too without delay.

We take this opportunity to voice our concern over the sinister and mysterious acts of lawlessness, such as abductions and killings, which are taking place. We call on the State to be bold and resourceful in these circumstances and ensure that those responsible for such crimes are brought to justice swiftly.

Generally speaking, there is no alternative to the firm establishment of the Rule of Law. The law of the land, in other words, should reign supreme and the law should be meted out in even measure to all wrongdoers, whoever they may be.

Justice delayed could indeed be justice denied in these circumstances. It should never be perceived in any quarter that the Rule of Law is not being enforced. If this perception occurs, it would be only a fillip to a breakdown of law and order.

Therefore, we call for a thorough probe on these seemingly mysterious acts of lawlessness, in the name of justice.

'UN Secretary-General must be the consensus builder and harmoniser in the UN membership'

My vision of the UN has always been that of the undisputed centre of a rule-based world order in which sovereign states voluntarily participate. The UN has built and maintained norms that improve the daily lives of people. It must continue to do so to take our world forward to sustainable peace and prosperity.

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