Expressing concern about reports that Sri Lanka would reverse the moratorium on the death penalty, Canada said the punishments in the nature of the death penalty can lead to irreversible miscarriages of justice.
“We strongly and unequivocally oppose the use of the death penalty in all cases. This form of punishment is incompatible with human dignity and can lead to irreversible miscarriages of justice. No justice system is immune from error,” the Canadian High Commission said in a statement.
It said while action to counter the illicit drug trade is important and necessary, there is no evidence that the death penalty is an effective deterrent.
“Further, the resumption of executions could attract global attention and would do little to rebuild Sri Lanka’s image as a peaceful and welcoming destination for travellers and investment.
We join many Sri Lankans and friends of Sri Lanka around the world in urging the government to maintain the moratorium on the death penalty,” the statement said.
