LOC22:59
19:59 GMT
BRUSSELS, Jan 18 (KUNA) -- The European Union has followed with
considerable concern the recent impeachment process against Chief Justice
Shirani Bandaranayake of Sri Lanka, EU High Representative Catherine Ashton
said in a statement here tonight.
"The separation of powers is inherent in any democracy which respects the
rule of law. It follows that the independence of the judicial branch cannot be
made subject to actions by any other branch of government," commented Ashton
She called on Sri Lanka to ensure that its international obligations, and
in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, are
implemented.
The EU foreign policy chief also urged the Sri Lankan government "to
respect the right to peaceful protest and to ensure the safety both of Dr.
Shirani Bandaranayake and of all human rights defenders." (end)
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KUNA 182259 Jan 13NNNN