Magistrate rejects AG’s request

A request made by Fort police through the Attorney General to issue an order preventing the protesters from entering to close proximity of the President's house premises on Friday (8) and Saturday (9) was today rejected by Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court. While refusing to issue an order as requested by Attorney General, Colombo Additional Magistrate Keminda Perera observed that police have the power to prevent an event of committing any offence or causing any disturbance to the public. Deputy Solicitor General Janaka Bandara appearing for the police told the court that police intelligence has received information that political parties, civil society activists and trade unions are preparing to organize a massive protest on Friday and Saturday, after being members of unlawful assembly. President's Counsel Saliya Pieris appearing for the rights of protesters raised objections against the attempt by police of utilizing the judiciary as a weapon to suppress people's fundamental rights including freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly. He further submitted to the court that police are empowered to take necessary action in accordance with sections 95, 96 and 97 of the Criminal Procedure Code in the event of committing an offence. Taking into consideration the facts presented by both parties, the Additional Magistrate decided to reject the request made by the police.