19 March, 2024

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Brigadier Priyanka Fernando To Face A Fresh Retrial On Friday: ICPPG

Brigadier Priyanka Fernando, the Sri Lankan Diplomat and Former Defence Attaché, will Face a Retrial on 18th October 2019

Brigadier Priyanka Fernando, a Sri Lankan Diplomat and the former Sri Lankan Defence Attaché of the Sri Lankan High Commission in London, is to face a fresh trial at the Westminster Magistrates Court on Friday, 18th October 2019 for threatening to kill the protesters by making repeated slit throat gestures outside the High Commission in London.

The incident which forms the basis of the charges against Brigadier Fernando occurred on 4th February 2018 when Brigadier Fernando was filmed, whilst on duty in his military uniform, making repeated cut- throat gestures to the protestors who were conducting a peaceful demonstration outside the Sri Lankan High Commission in London. The victims felt intimidated by these threats and brought a Private Prosecution against Brigadier Fernando as the Police has let them down by claiming that he has diplomatic immunity and therefore cannot be arrested. The International Centre for Prevention and Prosecution of Genocide (ICPPG) assisted the victims to bring the private prosecutors with the legal representations of the Public Interest Law Centre (PILC).

As Brigadier Fernando chose to ignore the summons issued by the Westminster Magistrates Court, the Court was left with no option to proceed in his absence. Accordingly, the first trial took place in absentia on Monday, 21st January 2019 and he was found guilty of two charges under the Public Order Act (sections 4a and 5). He was convicted of intending to and causing harassment, alarm and distress with his gestures, which were made after he had taken photos and videoed Tamil protestors. The panel of three honourable British Judges, headed by the Chief Magistrate Ms Sonia Henley, who carefully considered the evidence, found Brigadier Priyanka Fernando guilty and issued an Arrest Warrant, without bail.

However, the warrant was subsequently withdrawn following the intervention of the FCO who raised an issue upon the pressure of the Sri Lankan government, as to whether Brigadier Fernando was immune from prosecution for the offences due to diplomatic immunity. Accordingly, this was listed for further hearing to consider the issue of immunity.

On 1st February 2019, at Westminster Magistrates Court, before the Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot, Counsel for Brigadier Fernando argued that the Brigadier’s actions were covered by indefinite immunity as they were within his official duties to monitor any anti-Sri Lankan activities or LTTE activities and report them to the Sri Lankan High Commission and to prepare appropriate strategies to safeguard the High Commission. In support, the Defence relied on a “Job Description Document” issued by the Sri Lankan High Commission to Brigadier Fernando which provides that the Brigadier was officially authorized by the Sri Lankan Government to “Monitor any anti-Sri Lankan activities in the UK and report to the High Commissioner and through her to the Intelligent Agencies in Sri Lanka”.

However, the Defence argument was rejected by the Chief Magistrate at a hearing on 1st March 2019 who found that: “It was not part of Brigadier Fernando’s job description to make the alleged cut-throat gestures on the three occasions, it could not be any part of the mission’s function and therefore the Minister Counsellor’s behaviour is not given immunity by Article 39(2) of the Vienna Convention. The Brigadier cannot call on the residual immunity that he would have been able to had the acts been performed in the exercise of this functions.” The Chief Magistrate also noted that the job description required Mr Fernando to “strictly adhere” to “personal behaviour and professional standards.”

Counsel for the Defence then made an application under section 142 of the Magistrates’ Court Act to have the conviction set aside. The case was adjourned to 15th March 2019 to deal with that application.

At the hearing on 15th March 2019, the Defence argued that there had been procedural mistakes in this case which meant that the conviction was invalid. The Chief Magistrate agreed, quashed the conviction and ordered a retrial on 7th May 2019.

On 3rd May 2019, the Defence again made an application to vacate the trial on 7th May 2019 claiming that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has contacted and indicated that the prosecutors are reviewing the materials intending to take over the case. As a result, the case was adjourned for 6th August 2019. Disappointingly, the case was again adjourned due to the delay in disclosure.

Despite the Defence’s consistent attempts to frustrate the proceedings by repeatedly applying for adjournments, the Westminster Magistrates Court has finally listed the case for a summary trial on 18th October 2019. The victims eagerly wait for the hearing to proceed with no further adjournments as this case had been dragged for too long, and they still wait for the justice to be done.

At the last hearing, it was concerning that some individuals close to the Sri Lankan High Commission were present at the hearing and involved in filming the prosecutors, witnesses and protesters in an attempt to intimidate them or persecute them later using the footages. One of them was caught by a Security Officer of the Court taking photographs of protestors through the window from inside the Court building. This was immediately brought to the attention of the Chief Magistrate and she severely warned all those present that it is illegal to take photographs or film anyone involved in this case either inside or outside the Court building. (The International Centre for Prevention and Prosecution of Genocide)

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Latest comments

  • 29
    23

    we can argue for hours but Mr P Fernando will be fine. Even he is at fault. He will get diplomatic immunity. His job is to protect the sovernity of SL. Good timing. This might help Gota.

  • 24
    36

    Let the process of law to be followed.
    These filling are just harassments.

    But I think his conscience is clear.
    As of me it was a long overdue stimulated reaction from a military trained person responding to a bunch of intimidating hooligans.
    Whatever the final outcome no harm will be done as he is back in SL soil.

    And
    He is having something proud to tell his grandkids or friends over a bear when he gets old.

    • 10
      8

      S. C. Pasqual

      “As of me it was a long overdue stimulated reaction from a military trained person responding to a bunch of intimidating hooligans.”

      The state should have taken care of his mental state, assessed him if he was fit for the diplomatic job, …………………… instead of sending a potential throat slitting sadist.

      “But I think his conscience is clear.”

      Regarding what?

  • 11
    13

    Can the Westminister Magistrate disqualify Nandasena from Presidency for expressing his support to Brigadier Priyanaka at the Foreign Media Grilling the other day…..

    • 16
      2

      Do not worry about Nandasena, for a 7-Eleven clerk he struck gold under his brothers govt.

      • 4
        8

        Under freedom of expression, every one has a right to issue statement supporting or condemning the criminal. UK is not worried about what is done in Sri Lanka, but if Gota comes to UK and does such things, he will end up behind bars.

      • 4
        4

        What a dream promotion .. 7-Eleven clerk to the powerful defense secretary overnight after being away and out of touch on SL matters for 15 years. while foot soldiers and front commanders were getting killed and loosing their limbs.
        and directors of SOE.. Hospitals etc.

        What is the secret.

  • 14
    18

    Brigadier Priyanka must contest the Election from Matara in February..

    • 12
      7

      KASmaalam K.A. Sumanasekera

      “Brigadier Priyanka must contest the Election from Matara in February..”

      I love it KASmaalam.
      There are other single handed generals and admirals who also qualify to contest the next parliamentary elections.

      Some potential candidates:

      Wasantha Karannagoda,
      Ravindra Wijegunaratne,
      Roshan Goonetileke,
      Jagath Jayasuriya,
      Sarath Fonseka,
      Shavendra Silva,
      Kamal Gunaratne,
      Jagath Dias,
      Daya Ratnayake
      Chagi Gallage
      Boniface Perera
      Daya Ratnayake
      …..
      ….

      Sisira Mendis
      Vass Gunawardena
      Gnanasara


      You got some brilliant suggestions.
      We will have parliament full of war criminals, fascists, potential sadists, throat slitters, crooks and kidnappers in uniforms, and the entire country will be owned and ruled by these fascists and saffron clad thugs.

      Let us start the rapid process of hitting the bottom.

      • 5
        7

        Hindian Vedda
        Go, get lost, you vegetable.
        The first 12 names in your list deserve the highest accolades for fighting for my motherland (not yours) with their life.
        You are mad with them because they perished your barbarian, the sun god.
        If not for them, you are still hiding in Demalanadu.
        People like you talk big here thanks to our Sinhalese warheroes.
        You fkng idiots still think bloodthirsty savage terrorists are martyrs.
        One doesn;t become a war criminal for fighting against terrorists to protect innocent civilians and his motherland.
        People like you are dying to see bloodbath and pieces of broken flesh and limbs strewn on the streets. That is why you call our valient Sinhalese militarymen war criminals.

        • 4
          1

          Champass

          You are baking at the wrong person.
          Are you barking at the mirror?

        • 0
          4

          Champa , Native Veddha has chosen his name well to cover his true identity as a pro-LTTE, anti-SL refugee, living with handouts from a Western Country. Where does this gesture legally or officially described in writing? Can someone quote it, please?. Swords are not used in UK , to kill people.

        • 2
          0

          Champass

          “That is why you call our valient Sinhalese militarymen war criminals.”

          Valiant – possessing or showing courage or determination.

          Killing innocent unarmed people or maiming them, forced disappearances, perpetrating sexual violence against both men and women, torture …………. are criminal acts and not considered being valiant effort.

          Those cowards never fought a single foreign force although it was faced with invasion of Hindian IPKF between 1987 and 1991. These valiant cowards were hiding either behind their women folks or VP’s fat bum. Instead VP the psychopath had to fight against the Hindians and eventually got them evicted from this land. He was the only one to evict invaders out in the 500 years history of this island and protected the sovereignty (whatever that is).

          These are facts and not your fantasies.
          Go worship your Sun God VP and thank him.

        • 2
          3

          ——
          Go, get lost, you vegetable.
          ———–

          LOL!

      • 6
        2

        Dear Native,

        What a contrast it would be against.
        Bond Scammer and EPF Robbers.
        Zaharan Supporters,
        Free Car Permit Traders.
        Commission Collectors .
        Free Land Grabbers.
        Fibbers,
        Same Sex Peddlers
        Monk Hunters.

        I always thought you are not just a pretty face..

        • 2
          0

          KASmaalam K.A. Sumanasekera

          I am sorry you are suffering from self induced dementia.
          I wish you a speedy recovery.

          “Same Sex Peddlers”

          You mean former Prime Minister Banda (a Sinhala speaking Tamil), he was actually a member of SLFP.

          “Fibbers,”

          Of course the members were seen only a few days ago seated and facing the media, not only fibbing but displayed utter contempt for the disappeared. The lying ******* wants to be the next lying president.

          “Monk Hunters”

          Not really.
          Saffron clad thugs see opportunities everywhere who should have been locked up forever. We don’t want to see female members of your family and yourself being raped by these thugs. And the Assgiria wants a Hitler to rule this island. The public racist Anagarika Homeless Dharmapala’s wishes may come true if Fascist wins the presidential contest.

          “Commission Collectors “

          Basil the one stop shop man, from 10% to 30%.

          “Free Car Permit Traders.”

          Please ask the present day public racist the saffron clad Aturaliye Rathana.

          “Zaharan Supporters”

          Don’t forget Mohammed Wasim Thajudeen’s killers too. AS to why an IGP and a defense secretary are in police custody, nobody knows.

          “Bond Scammer and EPF Robbers.”

          Gosh the endless list of crooks who enjoy impunity are now being almost forgotten. Do we know how much did the clan swindled from state coffer between 2005 and 2015?

          • 0
            2

            Dear Native,

            Wonder whether Keslwatta Kid has also promised Dr Ranil to give indemnity to your Diaspora Budd Dr Mahendran so Dr Ranil can give the Buddy his old Gig at the CB.

        • 3
          0

          KASmaalam K.A. Sumanasekera

          If all these single handed generals fill all the available seats in the parliament what will happen to the members of clan, cronies and b***s carriers?

        • 0
          4

          What if the Brigadier was scratching his neck ?

  • 9
    16

    This is totally wrong. It is obvious that our High Commission hasn;t done the needful.

    • 20
      7

      Bribing is not a norm in UK. They do respect the rule of law unlike the kangaroo system in Sorry Lanka.

      • 2
        1

        Champa, in UK you cannot commit a crime and get away with it, unlike in Sri Lanka where there is impunity for Sinhalese for crimes against Tamils. Ask your racist friends living in UK, why they do not even utter a word against Tamils in public, leave alone raise a hand against them. Time will come when Sinhala racists in Sri Lanka will be made to behave in that manner.

        • 0
          1

          Hello Dr Gnana Sankaralingam
          Sri Lanka should aspire to have a robust legal system where everybody is equal before law. UK is a good example for us to follow.
          Reasonable people will accept that the behaviour of the Senior Officer was unacceptable.
          All Sri Lankans, regardless of ethnicity, should be very grateful to the Sri Lankan security forces for saving Sri Lanka.

    • 1
      1

      Champa

      “It is obvious that our High Commission hasn;t done the needful.”

      What is the needful?

  • 20
    5

    Really Pasqual!
    Very proud to teach his grand kids! What an example

  • 23
    2

    This is a good example for poor training given to the foreign service cadre about the very sensitive nature of the foreign perception on the ethnic conflict here at home. I strongly believe that MY 3 must take the full responsibility for allowing this to happen by sending military attache’s on diplomatic missions without giving them thorough advice on how to behave in public b’cos, despite the UNP Gvt ability to reverse the animosity at political level created by the MaRa regime, of which MY 3 was also willing participant, foreign public perception is still controlled by LITTE propaganda which portrays – successfully, I must add – SL military & S/B majority as HR violators against minorities. In such a sensitive environment such a hostile gesture by a brigadier in England itself where there is a politically powerful Tamil community, a firestorm anger is not a surprise at all.

    MY 3 also left no stone unturned about his special preference for war heroes to the extent even to forego war crimes. This makes it easy for LITTE propagandists to make case that the efforts of ethnic reconciliation of the current SL Gvt is a mere fake. I believe that brigadier’s silly behavior only added hay to this fire. Therefore, I believe that Gvt must rethink its strategy in defending the brigadier. Employing the diplomatic impunity defense, even if it is legally valid, may not be the best strategy. Rather, politically it is much better to apologize while giving the brigadier a thorough public warning not to tarnish nation image ever again. Our arrogance at home may be an attractive election ploy at home but it works against our own national interests within the national community. As Trump is proving to the whole world, arrogance can even hurt national pride!

    • 4
      7

      D. P.
      Hostile gesture?
      A defence attache was not posted there to salute terrorists and their supporters.
      They were not civil protesters. They carried a flag of a banned terrorist outfit and some were in t-shirts with a slogan that their leader is Prabhakaran.
      Our military officer replied to them in a language they understand!

      • 1
        0

        Champa,
        You haven’t read my comment with care. The point is about not saying or doing things that might help to re-enforce the perception created by LITTE propaganda.

  • 31
    10

    an undisciplined man in uniform could lead to a huge calamity

  • 27
    3

    SL’s status as a Pariah State is being confirmed.
    There will be more including case from daughter of Lasantha Wickrematunge when majority in SL decide to elect an alleged war criminal to the throne.
    There’s no point living within the shores of SL and jumping up and down with glee claiming WE are the best of all.
    If there are allegations, come out in the open and defend your integrity.

  • 27
    4

    People are appointed on higher positions in overseas mission to bring glory to their own country of birth. But it is sad to note that some of them due to their inappropriate behavior brought discredit to their motherland. Diplomats are supposed to handle affairs in a diplomatic manner without resorting to rowdyism sort of gesture. Brigadier Priyankara’s behavior is uncalled and inappropriate in the light of the media coverage that went viral which implicated bad reputation. One wonder on what basis Brigadier Priyankara was selected for a responsible position in diplomatic service without considering an experienced officer from Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He breached beyond doubt on all counts of his responsibilities, first as a Brigadier and country’s diplomatic service. It is indeed a disgraceful issue for the country. But there is no one to take responsibilities on this issue.

    • 5
      7

      Paramanathan K
      What was Priyanka;s inappropriate behaviour?
      Terrorists don;t understand diplomatic language.
      So he spoke to LTTE diaspora with a language they understand. What;s wrong with that?
      LTTE supporters breached a court order by coming close proximity to the Chancery. Moreover, they dragged and stepped on our national flag on our national day!!!!!!! British government should first prosecute them.
      It is disgraceful only for terrorist supporters, because this is the first time LTTE diaspora got a bellyful in London.

      • 2
        0

        Champa, a person appointed to a diplomatic post has to behave in a decent manner keeping up the trust placed on him by the host country when he was accepted. Here clearly this person has not and thereby breached the Geneva regulation. This was correctly pointed out by the prosecution that by doing so he has forfeited immunity. You do not seem to know the layout of the area. Sri Lanka High commission is not in an isolated place like US or British embassy are in Colombo. It is amid houses and other buildings along a minor road. The premises of the embassy abuts the edge of the road with no land between the building and the road. The porch is built over the pavement like other buildings on the road. Thus under the porch is a public passage where anyone can walk. High Commission has no power to stop people even standing under the porch. Therefore there is no case of LTTE supporters coming close proximity to the Chancery. Who told you that there was a court order which was breached by LTTE supporters. It is only in Sri Lanka that Sinhala thugs can breach court order like in Mullaitivu temple. There is a procedure in holding demonstration where you have to apply to the police for permission, and they will give security on the day to demonstrators. Every thing was done legally and it was a peaceful event where police had not found any fault. Dragging, stepping or burning of your national flag even on a national day is not a crime in UK. It is not a disgrace for LTTE supporters but for Sri Lanka state as one of their officers was held by the scruff of his neck and thrown out. You seem to not know the meaning of bellyful, as your weeraya did not open his mouth at all.

      • 1
        0

        Champass

        “What was Priyanka;s inappropriate behaviour?
        Terrorists don;t understand diplomatic language.”

        He was only scratching Gota’s b***s stuck in his throat.
        Its okay.

  • 9
    12

    I wonder if the British government is going to prosecute Anne Sacoolas, the US woman who killed a British teen while driving(perhaps drunk) on the wrong side of the street.

    Any bets?

    Oh, what hypocrisy and what these political whores wouldn’t do for votes.

  • 8
    3

    That will be a huge boost to Gotabaya’s campaign.

    Wrong timing.

  • 7
    2

    What we have now is too many Dutta Gaminies.
    There is no quality,it’s like sinking ship rather than take the country forward they.wanted to start from the point of 2500 yrs back
    Thabili sellers becomes soldiers…….
    When VP was there this Gota-piyan
    run away to as far as to U S with his family ,then this sudden SL patriotic was forced to take up the US citizenship.
    These burgers Thirupathy devotees if they can’t make themselves they have messengers for them.
    Burnt out the library,pasta factory …..
    This beautiful country has to be safe guarded.

  • 13
    1

    In his first press meet Gotha claimed, he is not responsible for any unlawful killings because SF was conducting the war but claims the war victory is his. Can you beat that ???? What a F – – – – – G hypocrite, to the core.

    • 13
      1

      He expects the country to forget the war crimes, missing, and murdered, and pretend it never happened, so that he can become president.
      Politicians must run on their record, and his record stinks.

    • 4
      0

      chiv – “….but claims the war victory is his.” No wonder the Rajafucksha’s are referred to as uneducated, uncultured rascals.

  • 10
    4

    Army is not Sinhala Buddhist. They can say Panathi Patha and kill. What can you expect from an army which dragged its own war winning commander and jailed.

  • 15
    6

    Members of our armed forces must behave like gentlemen when they represent us anywhere in the world. He can behave like that on the battlefield, but when it comes to protests by civilians, he should have responded with some dignity. He is after all representing our country, and these crude gestures and behavior, which shows his arrogance. He should not be rewarded for such ugly behavior.

    • 4
      2

      Manel,
      Well said. For the soldiers to behave like gentlemen their superiors should set an example.Probably Brigadier would have been guided by what Gotabaya told the BBC referring to Sarath Fonseka ”We will hang him”

    • 12
      8

      Manel,

      Don’t ever come to tell an Army Soldier what he can and cannot do. We will never take the advise of a civilian any more than a blob of Dog excrement.

      We saved the lives of civilians. Brig. Priyanka Fernando saved the lives of civilians, Brig. Janaka Perera saved the lives of civilians, Corporal Gamini Kularatne saved the lives of civilians, Rtd. Lt. Reginald Shamal Perera saved the lives of civilians. After saving your sorry lives don’t EVER come to tell what’s what. If not for us, Prabahakaran and his gang of savages may be standing on your dead body today.

      Show even a little bit of gratitude.

      • 2
        0

        Remember the Sri lankan soldiers who got caught on TWO occasions running child prostitution rings in Haiti while serving in the UN forces? The international media got hold of the information and it was televised world wide. Even now you can easily do a google or youtube search and find the news clips.

        • 0
          0

          That would be Reginald wonderful soldiers. We all know what some of these soldiers are capable of, and it is ugly.

      • 1
        0

        Civilians are not terrorists. Military personnel are supposed to be trained to act with restraint. Don’t ever come and justify this crude, ugly behavior, especially oversees, and brag about saving lives.
        Real “heroes” don’t have to the right to behave in such a manner,
        and expect to get away with it, because they fought a war.
        Many of them are also responsible for war crimes. The unforgiven crime.

        You are paid to serve, and fight for the country, and making ugly gestures is not part of it. It does not make you entitled to any kind of
        unbecoming and embarrassing behavior. Show a little maturity and common sense.
        Wearing the uniform of your country and behaving like a juvenile, is not acceptable. Leave the arrogance aside.

        • 2
          2

          Manel,

          Seems like you should join the Army because you too would be paid to serve only if it was that simple.

          The sound of one bullet or a grenade will make you shiver and the last thing you would have in your mind is your pay stub. I have seen a civilian journalist shiver in fear at the battle front and this one was a somewhat seasoned one at that. You won’t stand a chance.

          You and your pay stub, let me tell you it takes a lot more than a filthy pay stub to join the Army. What you have just said above is a total insult on all the soldiers who make such a huge sacrifice. And you should be ashamed of yourself for saying something like that.

          • 0
            0

            Stop justifying what these rogue soldiers and this man has done. Thousands of missing Tamils up North because of what some of these “wonderful” soldiers have done. The decent soldiers in our country do not behave in such a disgusting manner, and do not seek publicity. There are rogue soldiers in our country, and some are used by politicians to act like thugs, and ex military used as death squads. You should be ashamed of yourself for defending these people who bring shame to our country .

      • 1
        0

        Few months ago one Army officer tried to be funny with me and received mouthful in choicest words and he did nothing but to tuck his tail between his legs for fear of ending up behind bars. Just because SL government gives them impunity for their crimes in Sri Lanka they should not try to behave like thugs in a foreign country.

        • 2
          2

          Wow…..Gnana, you should have joined the LTTE. LOL! If your post above is anything to go by, then you would have been a handful at the battlefront. LMFSAO.

          Btw, why did the officer you mentioned go behind bars? What crime did he commit?

      • 0
        0

        Next Independence day parade the entire army from the FM down to the lowest ranking soldier should perform this throat-cutting gesture. It the new salute for LTTE supporters.

    • 4
      5

      Manel
      What dignity? Terrorist supporters who carried LTTE flags don;t deserve any dignity. They are part and parcel and/or supporters of a banned terrorist group which staged a killing spree in our country for 34 years.

      • 2
        1

        You must be quite ignorant. Civilians carrying flags are no threat to anyone. You don’t like protests, that is part of any democracy, learn to bring pride to your country, by ignoring the protesters, and walking away like a well trained officer.

      • 1
        0

        Champass

        “Terrorist supporters who carried LTTE flags don;t deserve any dignity. “

        Aren’t you ashamed of being brown-nose watching the former terrorist Wimal Windbag Sangili Karuppan Weerawansa a**-****ing Rajapaksa clan? Is it okay because he is a Sinhala/Buddhist terrorists?

  • 7
    6

    I really can’t believe how excited everyone has got about this whole business. After all, since a man who might soon be President got “Colonel Karuna” (Muralitharan?) a forged passport to enter Britain illegally, for which the British, very unkindly, put him in the crowbar hotel, wouldn’t it be possible to send this same terminator, together with a white van, to do the needful to those who are challenging our right to demonstrate practices emerging from 2500 years of civilization? Should be a piece of cake for a guy who “disappeared” 600 policemen even earlier in his career, don’t you think?

    • 6
      6

      Typical Karapothu English. Shakespere’s gone mad today. Wrote almost half a page without releasing his breath.

      • 0
        0

        What if the Brigadier was scratching his neck ?

    • 0
      1

      Emil Aiya,

      You must have really felt the pulse of the Dalits in and around Holgolla and Digana.

      Otherwise how can you come up with , phrases like” Soon to be President ” for our under dog Nandasena?.

      Just imagine how disturbing and dis heartening it would be for Millions of UNP supporters who are rubbing their hands with glee to get Dr Ranil the all Mighty PM Job this time, with all the Bells and Whistles under the 19A .
      And rule the suckers the way no other PM has ever done in our 2500 Mahavamsa Lankawe

      BTW who are you going put as your second preference ?.
      Is it JVP AKD like your mates have advised ?..
      Or is it Keselwatta Kid?…

  • 7
    6

    The party to be blamed is the British Government for allowing the gathering carrying flags of “eelam’, during the day of celebrating the Independence Day. Would they allow such event by dissidents, if it was Saudi, Russia, China etc?!

    • 4
      3

      Peaceful protests without causing obstruction to the public to demonstrate injustice is part of democracy. Naturally for people of a pariah state with kangaroo courts this is not palatable. LTTE is banned only for the practice of violence and not for the policy of demanding rights of Tamils to live in dignity and safety. So there was nothing wrong for allowing anyone to carry LTTE flag anywhere in UK at anytime of the year. If anyone cannot tolerate such democratic activity, and commit violence against demonstrators, they have to be dealt with in law. A member of diplomatic posting cannot behave in a manner to incite violence or commit it, and correctly UK courts has instituted a case. The criminal may claim diplomatic immunity and be not subjected to punishment, but he cannot enter UK in future.

    • 2
      0

      kumar soysa

      “Would they allow such event by dissidents, if it was Saudi, Russia, China etc?!”

      I guess the British won’t allow the gathering in front of a country that the world value most for one or the other reason.

      Please try and raise the island’s value in one one way or another then see if Britain is fit to host a Sri Lankan High Commission. There is an easy way, why don’t you advise the rulers and functionaries of this island to pull the High Commission out of your former colonial master’s land. If you do not like the way the Brits are treating your people in their country just quit.

  • 4
    6

    A rare incident where some protesting hooligans had been successful in taking a military officer to make a gesticulation @ an inappropriate time & in an inappropriate place.

    In ordinery sense it’s not such a serious matter to make it for the cruelest set of criminals ever existed on our planet in the guise of freedom fighters.

    In our part, we appreciate our military officer’s bravery to give an appropriate response even out of context but the independent judicial interpretation will also have to be respected.

  • 5
    2

    Native Vedda: The other day, at a meeting “GOTA” said, “I have a competent team to lead a Government under me”. How you managed to name all those in that list you gave in reply to “Sumanasekera”? Are you in the “Shadow Cabinet” or in the “Media Mogul Team” of Gota? Anyway, your “Forecast” has been done very well. All those “Named” would definitely be in the “Cabinet” if “Gota” wins. If that happens: ” Hathwalame Lankawata Mokada Une”.

    • 6
      1

      Douglas

      Where is Gota going to employ members of his family and extended family?
      He may have to increase the total number MPs from 225 to 1600.

  • 7
    3

    Gotha promised to release every service personal out of prison the very next day, when elected as President (no big deal, MS has already done it and taken the credit) and tear the UN mandate into pieces and dump it. If so why did Rajapaksa brothers put “war general” SF in prison ?????? For personal reasons ??? So bottom line, Rajapaksas will not take any action as per UN mandate but willing to put servicemen in prison, for personal reasons. These are the Pseudo Patriots who are promising to save mother Lanka. Not willing to stand by military in defending for crimes but ready to take credit for the “war victory”.

  • 1
    1

    sorry defending war crimes

  • 7
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    The “protesters” should be investigated for their links to the LTTE, a banned terrorist outfit in the UK.

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      Lester the Sinhala racist bigot living in UK, LTTE is only banned for its practice of violence and not for espousing the cause of Tamils for justice. So however much you bark, nothing will happen to those demonstrators. Please remain anonymous because if LTTE people get at you, you will have to take treatment for urinary incontinence.

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        Sankaralingam,

        I know you are a long-time supporter of the LTTE. I could easily transfer your details to Scotland Yard, however, I prefer for you to be a free man and witness the destruction you and the rest of the “Diaspora” have brought on your community. Your fake homeland will vanish as Muslims and Sinhalese buy the remaining land in the North and East. Do you understand that the Army camps are permanent? Your children, grandchildren, and great-grand children will walk past them and acknowledge the Lion Flag, not your fake Tiger flag. You and the diaspora lost the war, now you have no say. No power, nothing.

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          Lester the coward, whom are you threatening. Go ahead and inform anyone about me. LTTE lost because of arrogance and intransigence. Now it is clear that Sinhala government is arrogant and intransigent and its end is in the horizon. It is LTTE that lost the war, and not Tamils, and remember that justice will win at the end.

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      Lester

      “The “protesters” should be investigated for their links to the LTTE, a banned terrorist outfit in the UK.”

      Good idea, you as a do gooder to the people of this island should campaign for it.

      Will you also consider starting a campaign to forcing the government to investigate the war criminals who are still alive or dead for perpetrating war crimes between 5th April 1971 and 9 January 2015 on the soil of this island?

      You won’t.
      Because you believe the state, its functionaries, its armed forces, political leaders ………. are born with the right to exercise impunity. What a stupid hypocrites you lot are.

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    Manel: You say – “armed forces must behave like gentlemen” . If that is the “Norm”, how could Ravindra Wijegunaratne become the “Chief of the Armed Forces”? You would have seen him in “Civilian Clothes” assaulting the “Media” personnel at Hambantota Port protest rally. He has further “Qualified” by being on “Bail” in that case where he is an accused for the abduction of 11 youths. Another “Added” qualification was where he was instrumental in assaulting a witness in that case in the Navy Mess..If he behaves in the way you suggest, he will never get a promotion or a lucrative position even after retirement. This Brigadier Priyankara Fernando has now completed his “Qualifications” to be appointed to a “TERMINATOR SQUAD” under the “Aspiring President” Gota.

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      The word “gentleman” cannot be applied to these thugs, who think they are entitled to behave in any arrogant way they want, because they fought a war. Their arrogant behavior only shows they would not have
      hesitated to commit war crimes. We should not forget it was ex military officials that are supposed to do the bidding of the former Defense Secretary, including kidnapping, and using white vans. We can expect the same if Gota is elected.

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    I understand that his gesture was not a threat to the demonstrators but a ‘suicidal threat’ as he could not bear to see the Srilankan flag being mutilated.
    Anne pow.

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    There are three names that come to the mind of Native Sinhalayo when talk about Dravidian invasions from Hindusthan.
    First is King Dutu Gemunu who ruled Sinhale from 164 BC to 140 BC.
    Second is Elara who was a Prince from Chola Kingdom that invaded Sinhale.
    Third is Gotaimbara who served as a Warrior in King Dutu Gemunu’s Army. Gotaimbara was one among what Sinhalayo call ‘Dasa Maha Yodhayo’.

    King Dutu Gemunu went from Ruhuna to Anuradhapura with Sinhala Army, defeating the Demala Army and finally confronted Elara face to face, eliminated him and unified the country.

    In the present context what Native Sinhalayo think is:
    Mahinda Rajapakse is King Dutu Gemunu reincarnated.
    Velupillai Prabhakaran is Elara reincarnated.
    Gotabhaya Rajapakse is Gotaimbara reincarnated.

    President Rajapakse (King Dutu Gemunu) with the support from Gotabhaya (Warrior Gotaimbara) gave the leadership to eliminate Velupillai Prabhakaran (Elara) and unified the country.

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      99.99% of the so called Aryan Sinhalese and fake Arab Muslims are Dravidians and again largely descended from low caste Tamil Dravidian immigrants from South India but now running around pretending to be Aryan and Arab. There is hardly any Aryan or Arab amongst both these people. Even the people of Bihar. Bengal and Odissha are Indo Aryan speaking Dravidians, Dravido/Mongols or Dravido /Australoids. The native Naga and Yakka tribes from whom the Sri Lankan Tamils and the original Sinhalese are largely descended from respectively , were semi Tamil speaking Dravidian tribes. Go and take a hike Sinhalese bigot from Melbourne Australia with a Tamil wife and children

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    Here is my 2 cents. What he did was wrong. And we should apologize and move on. We should also ask the UK government to remove the LTTE flags during such protests but I think that would be a freedom the UK citizens have and legally there might be nothing the government can do. We can highlight how the LTTE flag which is a symbol of a ruthless and brutal terrorist organization can provoke the ones that are not sympathetic to a terrorist organization and erode the peace. We should not send unqualified people for diplomatic missions then again many appointments have been done based on connections rather than on merit.

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    King Dutu Gemunu went from Ruhuna to Anuradhapura with Sinhala Army, defeating the Demala Army and finally confronted Elara face to face, eliminated him and unified the country.
    ————–
    If that is the case then how come the north and east of Sri Lanka was a tamil hindu kingdom when the europeans arrived?
    Anyone with half a brain can see Sri Lanka is right next to tamil nadu and therefore must have been occupied by tamil people first. Only Sinhalese can create such a ridiculous claim that buddhists from northern india reached the island first and tamils later tried to invade.
    Even during dutugemunus time there was no sinhala in existance. Sinhalese is a relatively modern language.
    DNA tests have conclusively proven that the Sinhala modayas are mostly descended from south indians. That in itself is obvious to the naked eye. Just because you follow a religion that sprouted in northern india does not mean you are an ‘aryan’. The same way i am not an aryan because i speak English.

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    “Job Description Document” issued by the Sri Lankan High Commission to Brigadier Fernando which provides that the Brigadier was officially authorized by the Sri Lankan Government to “Monitor any anti-Sri Lankan activities in the UK and report to the High Commissioner and through her to the Intelligent Agencies in Sri Lanka”.

    Here we go again.
    How come the petitioners did not point out the Lankawe game on this? Beyond the job description looks out of place for Geneva Convention and the action of the Buffoon brigadier did not fit in the description given, there are all indications that he did not have had a job description at the time the crime was committed. First, the ambassador rejected the action of the brigadier by her body. She did not entertain this buffoon. The man behind him refused witness the event. Apparently, if they two did know the Buffoon’s job included that sign showing, they might have protested at the time of his appointment. Tilak Marapana immediate recalled that guy for that misstate. Rapist Army Commander said the Buffoon would be investigated separately by Rapist Army too. Those are indicating that none of them were willing to accept that showing that sign is a job of that Buffoon. But rear admirable Sarath like outside people only complained about FAM recalling him and investigating. Then the mad man who is taking treatment in Thailand ordered to send that Buffoon back to UK. UK protested to accept back. Lankawe Ambassador resigned her job refusing to accept him back. Until that time the job description was never explained as included showing signs. When Old Brother Prince was asked at Airport while he was returning from USA that if he would accept the conduct of that security personnel, Prince replied that person has to be at mental hospital, not at embassy. May I know who drafted that job description? Is there a witness (like ambassador) to confirm that he had it in UK while there?

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    Siri Sangabo:Guys, what Priyanka is doing is to make the ‘Siri Sangabo’ gesture of Maitreeya. I think you all know that Siri Sangabo cut his own head and gave it to his enemies to stop the loss of life due to the fighting between his supporters and his enemies.

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