The Attorney General has not given his consent to grant bail to former Western Province Governor Azath Salley despite the Supreme Court has granted leave to proceed with his Fundamental Rights petition, the defence counsel informed Court today.
President’s Counsel Maithri Gunaratne appearing for Salley made these remarks when the magisterial inquiry into Azath Salley in connection with the controversial remarks he made detrimental to ethnic-religious harmony in the country was called before Colombo Chief Magistrate Buddhika C. Ragala.
Gunaratne said since the charges against his client had been filed under Prevention of Terrorism Act. it is required to receive the Attorney General’s consent for bail. He alleged that the Attorney General is not acting independently despite the fact that CID has done a comprehensive investigation not to persecute the suspect any further. He further said people have only faith in an independent judiciary in safeguarding their rights.
Meanwhile, the Chief Magistrate yesterday issued an order directing the Prison Superintendent that necessary arrangements be made to sign a deed in respect of Azath Salley’s property while being in remand custody. The Chief Magistrate made this order pursuant to a request made by defence counsel. Salley was further remanded till November 9.The Colombo High Court on Monday (25) served indictments on Azath Salley
When the case came up before High Court Judge Amal Ranaraja. The High Court fixed the case for trial on November 2.
The indictments had been filed against Salley for committing offences coming under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA)and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act in connection with the controversial statement he made on March 9, 2021.
