New Zealand High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Michael Appleton also expressed concerns about the state of emergency, without a ‘clear rationale’ provided.
“Sri Lankans, whose recent protests have been overwhelmingly peaceful, deserve to have their voices heard. We encourage all to focus on solving Sri Lanka’s political & economic challenges.” he tweeted.
The State of Emergency was declared by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa with effect from midnight yesterday in Sri Lanka. The President’s office said that the President has taken this decision “due to the public emergency situation in Sri Lanka and in the interests of public security, the protection of public order and the maintenance of supplies and services essential to the life of the community.”
Norway High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Trine Joranil Eskedal also expressed concerns about the state of emergency, we are closely following the situation in Srilanka. Using teargas on peaceful protesters and declaring a state of emergency when the protests have been peaceful and while the parliament is adjourned is concerning. We urge all sides to act with restraint.
We are closely following the situation in #SriLanka. Using teargas on peaceful protesters and declaring a state of emergency when the protests have been peaceful and while the parliament is adjourned is concerning. We urge all sides to act with restraint.
— Trine Jøranli Eskedal (@NorwayAmbLK) May 7, 2022