⚖️ AKD to Repeal PTA This Year, Replace with Organised Crime Law

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced a major overhaul of Sri Lanka’s security and civil liberties laws, pledging to abolish the long-controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) by the end of 2026. • Security & Civil Liberties: The PTA will be repealed before the end of the year due to its broad and ambiguous definitions, which previously allowed for potential misuse against critics. It will be replaced by a new Organised Crime Act, featuring precise definitions focused strictly on criminal networks rather than political opponents. • Digital & Media Regulation: The Government will not implement the current Online Safety Act in its present form. The Cabinet has already approved the drafting of a substantially revised replacement Bill to prevent the undermining of public rights. • Governance & Judiciary: The administration highlighted a policy of restraint, noting zero usage of water cannons or tear gas against public protests. The President strongly rejected allegations of stalling judicial appointments to influence the courts, attributing delays to broader structural shortages across the judicial system.