COLOMBO: Diplomats and sportsmen were quick to react to the police shoot-out which killed one and injured 12
U S Ambassador Julie Chung said:
I am deeply saddened by the horrible news coming out of Rambukkana. I condemn any violence – whether against protesters or police – and call for restraint & calm from all sides. A full, transparent investigation is essential & the people’s right to peaceful protest must be upheld
UN Representative in Colombo Hana Singer Hamdy : “ Deeply concerned by reports of harm to protestors in Rambukkana. Violence by any party involved hinders the rights of all peaceful protestors. Restricting use of force to the minimum extent necessary is vital to protect citizens and their right to exercise fundamental freedoms.”
David McKinnon: Canadian High Commissioner
“ Deeply saddened to hear of the dead and injured in Rambukkana. My thoughts go out to their families. Maximum restraint is urgently required, and those instigating violence must be accountable.”
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa :
“A hungry and desperate man is dead because we did not have the humanity to protect him. The world is watching you tear this country apart. Why would the police use live rounds instead of using non-lethal methods?”
Namal Rajapaksa: “ Whichever side we are on, we must all agree that violence is not the way to solve anything! Our country has seen enough! We must protect peace at all costs! I urge authorities & protestors a like to not give into violence & stop this escalating any further!
Mahela Jayawardena : “ If the people were violent and damaging public property they can be arrested but no excuse to shoot at them? Is this democracy? Is this law of the land? Who ever responsible for this must be brought to justice… SL police shame on you.”
