President appoints advisory council to present recommendations under PTA

COLOMBO (News 1st): President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has appointed an advisory council to make recommendations and decisions under Section 13 of the Prevention of Terrorism Act. The council is chaired by the former Chief Justice Ashoka de Silva.

Accordingly, the council will consist of retired High Court Judge A.A.R. Heiyanthuduwa and retired Solicitor General Suhada Gamlath, as well.

The panel is expected to make recommendations and advise the President on future decisions, including the investigation, release and granting bail of prisoners and detainees on terrorism charges.

According to a statement from the President's Media Division the absence of such an advisory council those detained under the PTA did not have a right to produce their claims and with the appointment of the new advisory council such prisoners will be given an opportunity to highlight their issues.