* U.S. expresses concern over the consolidation of executive power in Sri Lanka

Nov 02, Geneva: The United States while commending the Sri Lankan government for its development and reconciliation efforts expressed serious concern over the consolidation of executive power, especially in light of Thursday's impeachment motion against the Chief Justice.

The US Ambassador Eileen Donahoe speaking briefly after Sri Lanka's presentation at the Universal Periodic Review of Sri Lanka at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Thursday said the U.S. remains concerned by the consolidation of executive power, including the passage of the 18th amendment, and that no agreement has been reached on political devolution.

Special Envoy of the President on Human Rights, Plantation Industries Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe, who headed Sri Lanka's delegation, delivered the opening statement at the UPR.

In a statement delivered to the Council, the U.S. charged that former conflict zones remain militarized, and the military continues to encroach upon daily civilian and economic affairs. The Ministry of Defense has controlled the NGO secretariat since 2010, the statement noted.

The U.S. noted the steps taken by the government of Sri Lanka to resettle IDPs, foster economic growth, improve infrastructure, and develop a National Action Plan for implementing a number of recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC).                                                             Full Story>>>