The high-profile case concerning the abduction and disappearance of journalist Prageeth Eknaligoda has been adjourned once again, highlighting ongoing challenges within Sri Lanka's judicial system. The Colombo High Court's Special Bench, presided over by Judge Sujeewa Nishshanka, postponed proceedings until December 5 due to the unavailability of two additional judges required for the trial.
Background of the Eknaligoda Case
Prageeth Eknaligoda, a prominent Sri Lankan journalist and political cartoonist, disappeared on January 24, 2010, just days before the presidential election. His case has become one of the most closely watched legal proceedings in the country, symbolizing broader concerns about press freedom and accountability in Sri Lanka. The journalist was known for his critical stance against the government and his work with opposition media outlets.
The Attorney General has filed charges against nine military intelligence officers in connection with Eknaligoda's disappearance. Among the accused is Colonel Shami Arjun Kumararatne, the former commanding officer of the Giritale Army Camp, whose involvement has drawn significant attention to the case. The charges represent a rare instance of high-ranking military personnel being held accountable through the civilian court system.
Judicial System Challenges
The repeated adjournments in the Eknaligoda case reflect broader systemic issues within Sri Lanka's judicial framework. The requirement for a three-judge bench for such serious cases, while ensuring thorough deliberation, has created logistical challenges when judges are unavailable. This situation has led to frustrating delays for the victim's family and has raised questions about the efficiency of the court system in handling high-profile cases.
Legal experts have pointed out that such delays can undermine public confidence in the judicial process, particularly in cases involving alleged state actors. The extended timeline also poses challenges for evidence preservation and witness testimony, as memories fade and circumstances change over the years.
Impact on Press Freedom
The Eknaligoda case has broader implications for press freedom in Sri Lanka. Journalists and media organizations have closely monitored the proceedings as a barometer of the country's commitment to protecting media workers and ensuring accountability for crimes against them. The case has drawn international attention from press freedom organizations and human rights groups.
The disappearance of Eknaligoda occurred during a particularly turbulent period in Sri Lankan politics, coinciding with the final stages of the country's civil conflict. This timing has added layers of complexity to the case, as it intersects with broader questions about wartime accountability and post-conflict justice.
Family's Long Wait for Justice
For Prageeth Eknaligoda's family, each adjournment represents another delay in their quest for answers and justice. His wife, Sandya Eknaligoda, has been a persistent advocate for the case, regularly attending court proceedings and speaking publicly about the need for accountability. The family's ordeal has lasted over a decade, with limited progress in determining what happened to the missing journalist.
The emotional toll on the family has been compounded by the uncertainty surrounding Eknaligoda's fate. Without definitive answers about whether he is alive or dead, the family remains in a state of limbo, unable to find closure or move forward with their lives.
Legal Proceedings and Evidence
The case against the nine military intelligence officers is built on evidence gathered over several years of investigation. The charges include abduction and conspiracy, though the specific details of the alleged crimes have not been fully disclosed in public proceedings. The involvement of military personnel has made the case particularly sensitive, requiring careful handling by the judicial system.
Previous court sessions have focused on procedural matters and witness testimony, but the frequent adjournments have prevented sustained progress in examining the evidence. Legal observers note that maintaining momentum in such complex cases is crucial for effective prosecution.
Looking Ahead
As the case moves toward its December 5 hearing date, there are hopes that the required judges will be available to proceed with substantive hearings. The legal community and civil society organizations continue to monitor the case closely, viewing it as a test of Sri Lanka's commitment to justice and accountability.
The outcome of the Eknaligoda case could have significant implications for other pending cases involving disappeared journalists and activists. A successful prosecution could encourage other families to pursue legal remedies, while continued delays might discourage similar efforts for accountability.
The case remains a critical benchmark for Sri Lanka's democratic institutions and their ability to deliver justice in cases involving alleged state actors and crimes against media workers.