SL rejects concerns on Lt. Gen. Shavendra Silva appointment

Colombo (News 1st): Sri Lanka rejected concerns raised over the appointment of Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva as the Army Commander. Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador A.L.A. Azeez told the 42nd UNHRC session today (September 11) that Silva’s appointment was an internal matter. The Core Group on Sri Lanka raised concerns at the UN Human Rights Council during its ongoing session on the appointment of Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva as the Army Commander. Speaking at the UNHRC UK’s International Ambassador for Human Rights Rita French said;

"Madame High Commissioner, we share the concern expressed in your statement of 19 August that the appointment of General Silva as Army Commander severely compromises Sri Lanka’s commitment to promoting justice and accountability and undermines reconciliation efforts. The core group believes that it is vital for peace and prosperity that Sri Lanka builds confidence in its commitment to protecting political space and human rights."

However, addressing the session today, Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the UN said Army Commander Silva’s appointment was an internal matter. He also noted Sri Lanka is disappointed at concerns being raised by some countries over Silva’s appointment based on allegations.