UNP says more liberal approach is needed

At an international conference held at Haryana, India, on “Law and Justice,” representatives of India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka called for a liberal approach on contempt of court offences, UNP lawmaker Rajitha Senarathne said.

“All senior lawyers agreed not to take a tough stand on contempt of court other than in instances where judgements are being directly criticised,” he told BBC Sandeshaya.

“Political prisoner"

Commenting on Tuesday’s judgement on SB Dissanayake by the Supreme Court, Senarathne said the party would regard Dissanayake as a “political prisoner.”

Former Samurdhi and Agriculture Minister SB Dissanayake was sentenced for two years rigorous imprisonment for contempt of court by the Supreme Court for criticising the judiciary.

Dissanayake, who is also a legislator from the main opposition United National Party, was escorted to prison shortly after Chief Justice Sarath Silva read out the verdict after a lengthy trial.

Under Article 89 of the Constitution, any person who is serving or has served a jail term of more than six months disqualifies to be an elector for a period of seven years.

Senarathne said similar judgements are not heard in the developed world.

The UNP, Senarathne said, would take the plight of Dissanayake to international organisations.

“We will join with local and international organisations to protest this.”