UN resolution violated Sri Lanka's constitution - foreign minister

COLOMBO (News1st): The UN human rights resolution 30/1 infringed the people's sovereignty and violated the constitution, foreign minister Dinesh Gunawardana said Wednesday. He made these remarks during a parliamentary debate on the 2021 budget while justifying the current government's decision to withdraw from the resolution. Gunawardana cited the government's commitment to safeguarding the people's mandate towards a sovereign and independent Sri Lanka that ensures territorial integrity, human rights and democracy as a reason for the move. Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris pointed out that remaining committed to the resolution would require repealing of major legislation such as the prevention of terrorism act. He added that the resolution would empower foreign judges to adjudicate on grave allegations relating to war crimes in the country. However, opposition parliamentarian M.A. Sumanthiran argued that "there would be repercussions" if the government doesn't fulfil its promises to the international community.