Lanka rejects US decision on Karannagoda

The Sri Lankan government has denounced the United States’ move to blacklist the Governor of North Western Province in Sri Lanka, Wasantha Karannagoda.

Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabry has expressed grave concerns associated with the decision to US Ambassador Julie Chung.

The Sri Lankan government says such unilateral move by the United States without following the due process is “counter-productive” to the “holistic approach” that the island nation has taken on addressing national unity and reconciliation.

“It is also unfortunate that the announcement emanates against the backdrop of tangible progress made by the Government in strengthening the country’s democratic governance and reconciliation structures.”

The Sri Lankan government notes that, despite these challenges, it will continue its ongoing efforts to achieve reconciliation, economic recovery and socio-economic development.

The US on Thursday banned Karannagoda and his family from entering the country over alleged gross violation of human rights.

Karannagoda was designated pursuant to Section 7031(c) of the US Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act 2023, “due to his involvement in a gross violation of human rights during his tenure as Naval Commander.”

As a result of the move, “Karannagoda and his wife, Srimathi Ashoka Karannagoda, are ineligible for entry into the United States,” the statement read further.