Controversy Over Promotion of Officer Linked to Ekneligoda Case ⚖️

Activists and media freedom groups have formally protested the promotion of a military intelligence officer indicted in the 2010 disappearance of journalist Prageeth Ekneligoda. • Key Figures & Promotion: Lt. Col. Erantha Radeesh Peiris (named as the 9th accused) has reportedly been promoted to the rank of Brigadier (or Colonel per varying official documents) by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. • Legal Status: The officer faces 17 indictments filed by the Attorney General in 2019, including charges of murder and abduction. CID investigations identified him as a person directly involved in the forced disappearance of the journalist. • Public Reaction: Sandya Ekneligoda and civil society groups argue that promoting an officer standing trial for grave crimes: Undermines the judicial process and the rule of law. Risks influencing witnesses and discouraging investigators. Damages public confidence in government pledges for accountability. • Context: The case is currently being heard before a Permanent Three-Judge High Court Trial at Bar. The promotion is seen as a deviation from standard practice, where personnel under criminal investigation are typically suspended.