Ranil Calls Out U.S. for Alleged ‘Double Standards’ in Gaza and Sri Lanka

Ranil Calls Out U.S. for Alleged 'Double Standards' in Gaza and Sri Lanka

Akif Wani | November 10, 2023 | 10:15 AM IST | World | Follow on Google News

Ranil Calls Out U.S. for Alleged ‘Double Standards’ in Gaza and Sri Lanka

Ranil Calls Out U.S. for Alleged ‘Double Standards’ in Gaza and Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has accused the West, and particularly the United States, of practicing “double standards” in addressing human rights concerns, pointing to a perceived imbalance in their approach to Gaza and Sri Lanka. Speaking at the inauguration of a courts complex, he emphasized the importance of measures against terrorism complying with international law, especially international human rights law.

UN Resolution and Criticism of the West

Wickremesinghe highlighted the resolution passed by the UN Human Rights Council in October 2022, where the U.S. and Canada played a role in passing a resolution against Sri Lanka. The resolution urged the Sri Lankan government to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into alleged human rights violations, emphasizing the full participation of victims and their representatives. This move prompted the President to draw parallels, stating that the principles applied to Sri Lanka should also be enforced in Gaza.

Protests for Solidarity and Backlash

As Sri Lanka voted in favor of a UN General Assembly resolution for a humanitarian truce in Gaza, Sri Lankans expressed solidarity with Palestine through protests across the country. However, President Wickremesinghe’s comments on double standards faced immediate backlash from government critics and rights advocates. They took to social media platforms to remind him of Sri Lanka’s own obligations, citing enduring calls for truth, justice, and accountability.

Internal Criticism and Calls for an Inclusive Sri Lankan State

Prominent human rights activist Ambika Satkunanathan emphasized on social media that the focus should be on whether international law is being violated rather than comparing different legal standards. Opposition MP Mano Ganesan criticized the President for blaming the West, suggesting that it was time to focus on building an all-inclusive Sri Lankan state rather than singling out external entities. He urged President Wickremesinghe to address concerns within the country and work towards creating unity among its citizens.

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Akif Wani