Human rights activist Sandhya Ekneligoda, widow of disappeared journalist Prageeth Ekneligoda, has made an urgent appeal to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for personal protection following serious death threats. The activist received threatening phone calls from an individual claiming to be a retired Army Brigadier, prompting her to seek immediate intervention from the country's highest office.
Death Threats Escalate Security Concerns
Speaking to media representatives on February 5, Sandhya Ekneligoda revealed disturbing details about the threatening communication she received in January. The caller, who identified himself as a retired Army Brigadier, allegedly made direct threats against her life, creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation around her ongoing legal battle.
This latest development represents a significant escalation in the challenges faced by Ekneligoda as she continues her relentless pursuit of justice for her husband's disappearance. The threats appear designed to silence her advocacy efforts and derail the legal proceedings that have been ongoing for over a decade.
Ekneligoda's appeal to President Dissanayake underscores the gravity of her situation and highlights the broader issues surrounding witness protection and judicial independence in high-profile cases involving alleged state actors.
Urgent Call for Judicial Appointments
Beyond seeking personal protection, Sandhya Ekneligoda has made a compelling request for the President to expedite the appointment of judges to ensure her husband's case concludes within the current year. This appeal reflects her growing frustration with procedural delays that have characterized the legal proceedings since Prageeth Ekneligoda's disappearance.
The activist's demand for swift judicial action comes at a critical juncture in the case, where momentum could be decisive in achieving long-awaited justice. Her emphasis on completing the trial within 2024 suggests both urgency and determination to prevent further postponements that have plagued the proceedings.
The appointment of dedicated judges could potentially accelerate the trial process and demonstrate the government's commitment to resolving cases involving enforced disappearances and attacks on media freedom.
Background of Prageeth Ekneligoda Case
Prageeth Ekneligoda, a prominent journalist and political cartoonist, disappeared on January 24, 2010, just days before the presidential election. His disappearance sent shockwaves through Sri Lanka's media community and became a symbol of the dangers faced by journalists during that period.
The case has been marked by numerous twists, including arrests of military personnel, witness testimonies, and procedural challenges that have extended the legal proceedings far beyond initial expectations. Despite multiple investigations and court hearings, the case remains unresolved, leaving Sandhya Ekneligoda and her family without closure.
Throughout this ordeal, Sandhya Ekneligoda has emerged as a prominent human rights advocate, not only fighting for justice in her husband's case but also championing the rights of other families affected by enforced disappearances.
Presidential Response and Government Responsibility
President Dissanayake's response to Ekneligoda's appeal will be closely watched as an indicator of his administration's commitment to protecting human rights defenders and ensuring judicial independence. The case presents an opportunity for the government to demonstrate its dedication to addressing past injustices and creating a safer environment for activists and journalists.
The provision of adequate security for Ekneligoda is not merely a matter of personal protection but represents a broader test of the state's ability to safeguard those seeking justice through legal channels. Any failure to provide appropriate protection could have chilling effects on other families pursuing similar cases.
Implications for Media Freedom and Justice
The threats against Sandhya Ekneligoda occur within a broader context of media freedom and human rights protection in Sri Lanka. Her case has become emblematic of the struggles faced by families seeking accountability for crimes against journalists and human rights defenders.
The international community, including press freedom organizations and human rights groups, continues to monitor developments in the Ekneligoda case as a barometer of Sri Lanka's commitment to justice and rule of law.
Swift action by President Dissanayake to address both the security concerns and judicial appointments could signal a positive shift in the government's approach to handling sensitive cases involving alleged state involvement.
Path Forward
As Sandhya Ekneligoda awaits the President's response to her urgent appeals, the case stands at a potentially decisive moment. The combination of security threats and the need for judicial progress creates a complex challenge requiring immediate and comprehensive action.
The resolution of her requests could set important precedents for how the current administration handles cases involving enforced disappearances and protects those seeking justice through legal means. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this long-standing case finally moves toward resolution or continues to face the obstacles that have characterized its lengthy journey through the courts.