The National Movement for Legal Reforms calls on the government to immediately release of former Parliamentarian Ranjan Ramanayake, who was convicted of contempt of court.
Speaking during a media briefing in Colombo today, former Parliamentarian Karunarathna Paranawithana said Ranjan Ramanayake’s time served thus far is adequate.
Paranavithana requested the government to pass a bill in this regard as there are no legal provisions in the current legal system regarding contempt of court and to use the draft bill presented by MP Patali Champika Ranawaka as a Private Members’ Motion if necessary.
He said they are aware of various allegations levelled at the present administration pertaining to abuse of power including steps taken to issue Presidential Pardons adding however public opinion is that the sentence extended to Ramanayake is unfair.
Paranavithana said pardoning Ranjan Ramanayake will positively impact the government’s image.
