Parliament remembers 2019 attacks; PM vows justice for victims

Colombo (News 1st); The Sri Lankan Parliament on Wednesday (21) observed a moment of silence to remember those who were killed in the 2019 April 21st Attacks. Members of the ruling faction led by the Prime Minister were seen wearing black arms bands condemning the attacks two years ago, while members of the opposition were seen wearing black suits to Parliament. Addressing parliament, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said the government is prepared to assist any investigation without interfering in the judicial process. The Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the April 21st Attacks and other relevant documentation was already directed to the Attorney-General for legal proceedings to punish the perpetrators of the April 21st Attacks, said the Prime Minister. The Premier said action will be taken against the perpetrators who planned out the coordinated series of attacks on April 21st, two years ago. The President has ensured that other investigations in addition to the Presidential Commission of Inquiry, such as the investigations conducted by the Criminal Investigation Department will proceed independently. "Legal action will be taken against the perpetrators following the successful conclusion of the investigations by the respective departments," he said. While pointing out there were attempts by various entities to deviate the attention by obstructing the proceedings of the investigations, the Premier expressed his disappointment and noted that the incumbent government is in the process of doing the needful to ensure that such tragic incidents do NOT repeat in the future.