We condemn in the strongest possible terms, the violence instigated by progovernment mobs against the peaceful protestors near Temple Trees and Galle Face
on the morning of May 9, 2022. We support and praise the extraordinary patience of
the protestors at “GotaGoGama” who not only weathered over 30 days of challenges
without resorting to violence, but also managed to restore peace at “GotaGoGama”
mere hours after enduring a brutal, armed assault.
There is now ample evidence that places the mob and its organisers inside Temple
Trees. Furthermore, there is evidence showing police officers standing idly by as the
mob attacked innocent protestors. We call for the immediate arrest of all persons
who committed, sponsored, or enabled this violence, either directly or through
dereliction of duty, irrespective of their position. We call for them to be investigated
and prosecuted to the full extent of the law.
We are also deeply dismayed that some individuals went beyond self-defence and
chose to punish the pro-government mob and their sponsors. We condemn these
brutal assaults, killings and destruction of property. Protestors at “GotaGoGama”
continue to shun violence, going so far as to request attendees to not even carry a
stick for self-defence.
Therefore any violence taking place anywhere within the country right now, is not in
the spirit of “GotaGoGama”. Such acts are not in the name of the protestors there.
We urge everyone to take an example from these young men and women, and return
to peaceful protests. We also urge law enforcement agencies to investigate and take
action on all crimes immediately, so that the public’s trust in the rule of law is restored
without delay.
Finally, we pledge our full support to the public’s effort to peacefully transition Sri
Lanka into a non-corrupt and effective form of government. We also pledge our
financial support and technical coordination to ensure the supply of essentials directly
to those in need during these difficult times.