HOUSE DIVIDED ENFORCING DEATHSENTENCE

Parliament seemed to be divided on enforcing the death sentence on those who molest children and women, as some members spoke favourably on it, some against and others took a neutral stand when an adjournment debate on the issue was taken up yesterday.

UNP MP Hirunika Premachnadra who moved the debate highlighted that religion and the law should not be mixed up

UNP MP Hirunika Premachnadra who moved the debate highlighted that religion and the law should not be mixed up. Ms. Premachandra made this point by stating that some believe that death sentence is not suitable for a Buddhist country. The MP argued that the death sentence will be an effective measureas anyone would be reluctant to abuse a child when the punishment is severe. “We put the seat belts on when travelling in a vehicle if we see a policeman as we are scared of the punishment,” she said.

Deputy Minister Ranjan Ramanayake said he was to move the adjournment debate but could not do so since he is a Deputy Minister. But said most of the MPs were reluctant to move it. He questioned as to why Sri Lanka cannot enforce death sentence when countries such as Singapore had enforced it.

JVP MP Bimal Ratnayake said introducing a special kind of Courts will be more effective. He said there is deep social issue as the accused crept inside little Seya’s house as they could not go to Colombo Hilton to satisfy their needs as many wealthy people do.

UPFAMPGeetha Kumarasinghe said finding out why such things happen and then find a solution.

Deputy Minister Ajith P. Perera said his conscience does not allow him to vote in favour of a motion to bring in the death sentence.

Minister Sajith Peramadasa said police and the judiciary should be made independent before enforcing it while Opposition MPVasudeva Nanayakkara suggested a select committee. He said the manhood of those who abuse children and women should be weakened.