COLOMBO ; Omar Kamil, President of the Moors’ Islamic Cultural Home (MICH) has express his grave concerns over the potential repatriation of Rohingya refugees currently sheltered in Sri Lanka.
Former Colombo Mayor and former Sri Lanka’s ambassador to Iran, Kamil, in a letter addressed to foreign minister Vijitha Herath has said : “ This matter has not only captured national attention but has also raised significant humanitarian concerns that warrant urgent intervention.
The Rohingya, a persecuted ethnic minority, have endured decades of unimaginable violence, discrimination, and statelessness in Myanmar. Forcibly repatriating these individuals to Myanmar, where conditions remain perilous for the Rohingya, would not only endanger their lives but also violate humanitarian principles and international legal obligations, including those enshrined in the 1951 Refugee Convention.
We are particularly troubled by reports that these refugees, including those housed at the Mullaitivu Air Force Base, may face imminent deportation without proper due process or consideration of their dire circumstances. This would expose them to further harm and contradict Sri Lanka’s longstanding reputation as a nation that upholds compassion and justice.
On behalf of the Muslim community of Sri Lanka, and with the solidarity of individuals from all faiths who cherish the values of humanity and dignity, we respectfully urge you to take immediate action to halt any plans for forced repatriation. We also request that these refugees be granted the necessary protection and access to humanitarian support.
The MICH stands ready to offer any assistance necessary to ensure the safety and wellbeing of these vulnerable individuals. We trust that your leadership will reflect Sri Lanka’s commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all people, particularly those fleeing persecution.
We await your swift response and decisive action to address this urgent matter.”