Namal alerts country to clear signs of returning to repressive practices of late 1980s

SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa cautioned that the proposed Organised Crime Prevention Bill could potentially lead to the resumption of repressive practices reminiscent of the late 1980s. The MP, who entered Parliament from remand custody for this debate, voiced concerns over the bill's provisions related to identifying members of organized criminal groups.

Rajapaksa questioned the necessity of new legislation to apprehend individuals sporting symbols of the criminal gangs, such as tattoos. He further probed whether the proposed law could lead to unwarranted targeting of individuals based on their physical attributes. Rajapaksa reminisced about the past methods of targeting individuals, previously labeled as Island Reconvicted Criminals (IRCs), who were identified by their hairstyles and beards.

He alleged that the government was attempting to covertly introduce repressive measures, masquerading them under the banner of combating organized crime. Rajapaksa also questioned the government's priorities, spotlighting ongoing shootings and killings linked to organized crime, while accusing authorities of neglecting the economic hardships faced by the public.

He urged the government to prioritize addressing issues like unemployment, the rising cost of living, and other pressing challenges, rather than introducing legislation that could potentially be used for repression.