Intl. concerns regarding appointment of Army Commander regrettable : SL Permanent Rep to UN

Concerns expressed by international entities regarding the recent appointment of Sri Lanka's Army Commander, based on allegations, go against the principles of natural justice, Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador A L A Azeez told a gathering in Geneva.

The country's Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva was delivering a statement during the General Debate at the 42nd Session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Wednesday

Mr. Azeez was responding to the Core Group Statement, which claimed that it shared in the High Commissioner's concern that the appointment of Army Commander Shavendra Silva severely compromised the country's commitment to justice and accountability and undermines reconciliation efforts.

Ambassador Silva said the security forces in the face of the recent Easter Sunday attacks remained resilient in protecting the country and its people adding that it maintained its pledges to fundamental rights, consistent with those made before the Council.

 "The Government remains committed to combating hate speech and all forms of crimes directed against ethnic and religious communities and is taking steps to counter religious radicalization and violent extremism," Ambassador Azeez said.

Further, the Ambassador pointed out that the Army Commander's appointment was a "sovereign decision taken by the Head of State and external attempts to influence decisions and internal administrative processes of public service promotions in Sri Lanka were unwarranted and unacceptable."

"Articulating a position of concern on this appointment by certain bilateral partners and international entities, based on allegations, is regrettable and contrary to the principles of natural justice," Ambassador Azeez said.