Adam Bandt’s Press Release (10/05) – Sri Lanka envoy wrong man for the job: Bandt
Greens MP Adam Bandt has expressed dismay at the Australian government’s approval of a former naval commander as the new Sri Lanka High Commissioner to Australia.
Mr Bandt said the decision could undermine Australia’s ability to play a positive to role in supporting human rights and peace in Sri Lanka.
“Admiral Samarasinghe is the wrong man for the job,” Mr Bandt said.
“The UN has said there needs to be an investigation into war crimes by the navy on his watch.”
“The government is responsible for doing due diligence in the wake of the claims about war crimes and human rights abuses.”
“The Australian government would be wise to not accept ex-military officers for diplomatic positions.”
“The government needs to revisit this decision.”
