Srilanka Foreign Minister Herath Declares Legal Action Against those who use term “Genoside”
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath expressed that the government will take action against individuals or groups who use the term “genocide” in relation to the country’s actions during the civil war. He emphasised the government’s stance on the matter, stating that the term is inaccurate and unwarranted in the context of Sri Lanka. This statement has sparked discussions about the ongoing debates surrounding accountability and reconciliation regarding past conflicts in the country.
Herath also reminded the public that Sri Lankan law already prohibits the glorification of the LTTE and the public display of its symbols—acts which remain painful reminders of a violent past for the country’s multi-ethnic citizenry.
“These symbols are not benign emblems of culture. They are battle flags of a violent separatist movement responsible for thousands of deaths, including of Tamils, Muslims, and Sinhalese alike,” Herath said.
The government, he declared, will take action to ensure that all such violations—online or offline—are prosecuted. But the latest measure goes further: the government will also move to regulate and restrict the misuse of the word “genocide” in public discourse where it is used recklessly or maliciously.
