Srilanka, Feb. 15 -- While condemning the assassination of Attorney-at-Law Buddhika Mallawaarachchi and his wife, lawyers of the National People's Power (NPP) urged the government to accelerate its efforts to restore public safety and the rule of law.

They said in a statement that they expect that the National People's Power government, elected for the dignity and well-being of all citizens, will fulfil its responsibility.

"We vehemently condemn this attack launched against a community dedicated to voicing and defending the rights of citizens, both inside and outside the courtroom-an attack carried out by thugs nurtured within a para-state by previous rulers to fulfill narrow personal political agendas.

"This incident underscores that ...