Mudalige’s detention to be extended by a further 90 days? Can it be an alibi for a dictatorial rule ?

Concerns regarding the likelihood of the extension of the detainment period of the Inter-University Students’ Federation (IUSF) Convenor Wasantha Mudalige – who has been detained under the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act (PTA) for 90 days under a detention order – for a further 90 days, were raised by his legal representatives.

Speaking on Mudalige’s behalf, one of the attorneys representing him, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) Member Sunil Watagala, claimed while addressing the media in Tangalle yesterday (9) that there is a likelihood of the prolongation of his detention by 90 more days. 

“On approval gained to meet him as a response to one of our requests, we were able to meet him today in Tangalle. Today marks the 81st day since his detainment and soon it’ll be the 90th day, but he said that he feels that these interrogations won’t end within that period, which would in turn prolong his release as well. He stated that the chances of this 90-day detainment being prolonged by another 90 days are highly likely,” said Watagala.

Furthermore, it was revealed that Mudalige had been questioned only three times, spanning nine hours of collective time during his stay after his 31st day of detainment to date – the 81st day. He asserted how he was only questioned on three days during the period of the last 50 days.

“Mudalige claimed that the investigations done by high officials are running at a very slow pace and are in an unprogressive state and that the likelihood of staying being increased is therefore very likely owing to the lack of efficient investigations,” claimed Watagala.

Moreover, he revealed how people are ordered from all around the country to appear at the Terrorism Investigation Unit to interrogate their links to Mudalige. He further revealed the basic questions directed at them: how did they call Mudalige’s phone, how they appeared in a photo with Mudalige, how they were present at a protest where Mudalige also participated, and whether they are connected to the Frontline Socialist Party or the JVP.

It was also revealed that Mudalige is not aware of how he falls under the PTA to be detained under it but that no answers have been provided to this question. He further claimed that the PTA is currently being used to avenge political hatred and that the Attorney General should therefore get directly involved in the detention of the public under the PTA and oversee the process.

Mudalige was arrested following an IUSF protest and detained for 90 days under a detention order.