A symbolic campaign calling for the release of Tamil political prisoners held under Sri Lanka’s draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was launched in Jaffna on Tuesday, as a specially designated water collection vehicle began its journey across the North-East.
Dubbed the “Tree of Liberation” campaign, the initiative is being led by the Voice of the Voiceless organisation and will span all eight districts of the Tamil homeland. Water gathered from across these regions will be ceremonially poured during a major mobilisation event at Kittu Park in Nallur on Thursday and Friday.
The campaign centres on the planting of a symbolic “Tree of Liberation” to draw attention to the plight of Tamil detainees, many of whom have been held for decades without charge or trial under the PTA, a law widely condemned by international human rights organisations for enabling arbitrary detention and torture.
Organisers have called on volunteers, civil society organisations, and the public to contribute water from their local areas, emphasising the collective nature of the campaign. Residents are also being encouraged to offer a cup of water when the water collection vehicle visits their region, as a gesture of solidarity with those still imprisoned.
The campaign follows a series of commemorative and advocacy events across the North-East this month, which have included public discussions and calls for the immediate repeal of the PTA. Despite repeated promises by the Sri Lankan government to abolish the legislation, it remains in force, disproportionately targeting Tamils and continuing to be used to suppress dissent.
Organisers have vowed to continue their efforts until all detainees are released.
