NOTE: Attention to Mahanayaka Theros and Sri Lankan Educators
As citizens of Sri Lanka, we cherish the values of equality, respect, and the preservation of our cultural heritage. Recent observations have brought to light a troubling trend within our national schools: the subtle promotion of religious ideals through extracurricular activities. Some teachers, driven by a belief that Buddhist children should learn about other faiths and their leaders, engage in activities such as analyzing the biographies of leaders from other religions and rewarding students who participate in multi-religious activities. While seemingly innocent, these activities risk alienating Buddhist children and sidelining the contributions of our national heroes.
It’s disheartening to note that the significant contributions of Buddhist heroes and those who prioritize Buddhism and Sinhala Buddhist culture are often overlooked or forgotten. When questioned, educators plead ignorance regarding these pivotal figures who have dedicated their lives to the propagation of Buddha Sasana and the protection of our motherland. This lack of awareness is concerning, considering the sacrifices made by these individuals in safeguarding our nation’s essence.
There exists a wealth of noble men and women, including Buddhist monks, who have selflessly devoted themselves to our country’s betterment and the preservation of our cultural identity. Their stories are not only inspiring but also crucial in instilling pride and belonging in younger generations. Yet, some educators, dubbed Aragala Type Teachers,” seem reluctant to acknowledge or promote the biographies of these esteemed individuals, raising questions about their commitment to our society’s values and principles.
It’s imperative that we address this issue urgently. Our education system must be reformed to ensure it imparts knowledge while fostering a deep appreciation for our cultural heritage and the sacrifices made by those who came before us. While inclusivity and respect for diverse religious beliefs are important, it’s equally crucial to uphold the principles enshrined in our constitution, particularly the foremost place given to Buddha Sasana.
Educational authorities and teachers must adhere strictly to constitutional principles and refrain from engaging in any form of religious propaganda or activities that may inadvertently victimize children of a particular faith.
Let us demand accountability from our educators and institutions. Together, let’s ensure that the next generation grows up knowing and cherishing the true heroes of our nation, those who have dedicated their lives to upholding Buddhist ideals and preserving our country’s unique identity. Our schools should remain spaces of learning, tolerance, and unity, where every child feels valued and respected, and where the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage is celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
One notable quote attributed to Buddha about religion and faith is:
Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in anything simply because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all, then accept it and live up to it.”-Buddha
This quote emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, rationality, and personal experience in evaluating beliefs rather than blindly accepting them based on tradition or authority.
By Palitha Ariyarathna
Analyst of Buddhist affairs, Desha Abhimani Surya Vansa Ratna Vibhushan Palitha Ariyarathna from Senkadagala Sinha Dwaraya
TCFBI PEC President Unethical Conversion of Buddhist
TCFBI International Co-ordinator
JBB Convenor and President and Founder Sinhala Buddhst Policy Centre
Sri Lanka has had a long association with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) since her independence in 1948 — in fact, the latest loan (in 2023) is its 17th IMF support package. In this post, Tharindu Udayanga Kamburawala analyses the trends and reasons behind Sri Lanka’s recurring reliance on the IMF, and suggests ways forward towards a sustainable economic future.
In March 2023, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved a US$3 billion loan under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) for Sri Lanka, sought by the country as it faced its most severe economic crisis since independence in 1948. Per the terms and conditions, all current government policies are aligned with the EFF 2023 framework. This marks the 17th IMF program initiated by Sri Lanka, indicating a pattern of recurring reliance on IMF support. This post explores the underlying reasons for Sri Lanka’s repeated recourse to IMF assistance.
Discontinuation of IMF Programs and Policy Reversals
Despite initiating numerous IMF programs, many have in fact been only partially disbursed; of the previous 16 programs, seven can be classified as ‘partially disbursed’. Table 1 details fully and partially disbursed IMF programs.
Table 1
Source: Compiled by the author based on IMF Policy Documents
The discontinuation of IMF programs before their scheduled completion is a primary factor in Sri Lanka’s ongoing macroeconomic instability and its repeated need for IMF assistance. The inability to complete necessary policy adjustments resulting from these program discontinuations and subsequent policy reversals has hindered the achievement of long-term stability.
Standby Arrangements (SBAs)
There are several types of programs relevant to IMF financial assistance, each with its own characteristics. The Stand-By Arrangement (SBA) is the most popular, providing short-term financial support to countries facing balance of payments problems. Unlike Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programs, SBAs do not include specific policies targeted at structural reforms. Of the 16 previous IMF programs in Sri Lanka, 10 are classified as SBAs; of the nine fully disbursed programs, seven are SBAs. This shows that most of Sri Lanka’s IMF programs have targeted short-term balance of payments difficulties rather than the structural reforms needed to address medium-term balance of payments problems. Sri Lanka has successfully completed only one EFF in 1979, and no EFF has been successfully completed since 2000.
Sri Lanka’s total government debt significantly exceeds this recommended threshold for developing countries. Figure 1 illustrates the percentage of GDP represented by Sri Lanka’s government debt. Since 1976, this debt has consistently exceeded 60 per cent of its GDP. In 2022, amidst the economic crisis following the Covid–19 pandemic, Sri Lanka’s total government debt reached 114.2 per cent of its GDP leading to severe debt distress. In April 2022, Sri Lanka defaulted on its foreign debt for the first time, triggering the worst economic crisis in its history.
Figure 1: Central Government Debt (as % of GDP)
Source: Compiled from data from Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
In the five years following the end of the civil war in May 2009, Sri Lanka’s economy grew at an average annual rate of 7 per cent, marking the fastest average growth rate for any sub-period in the country’s history since independence. However, this period of rapid growth is identified as debt-driven, primarily facilitated by large-scale infrastructure projects funded through external debt. Sri Lanka was unable to generate sufficient foreign exchange earnings to meet interest payments on this external debt, as the growth was largely fuelled by non-tradable sectors. Unlike tradable sectors, non-tradable sectors do not expose the economy to international competition, thus failing to enhance productivity.
Sri Lanka’s inability to expand tradable production sectors is evidenced by the declining export revenue relative to GDP over the years. Figure 2 illustrates the performance of Sri Lanka’s exports as a percentage of GDP, highlighting the decline in export revenue relative to GDP and the concurrent increase in total external debt relative to exports. This debt-driven growth and the economy’s non-tradable bias have contributed to ongoing macroeconomic instability, necessitating frequent recourse to IMF assistance.
Figure 2: Exports as %age of GDP and Total External Debt as %age of Exports
Source: Compiled from data from Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
Large Budget Deficits and Current Account Deficits
The Sri Lankan economy has consistently faced challenges on both fiscal and external fronts. In 2022, Sri Lanka’s tax-to-GDP ratio was among the lowest in the world, characterised by low rates, a narrow base and complexity. According to the World Bank, tax revenue collection as a share of GDP ranges from 15 to 20 per cent in lower and middle-income countries, and exceeds 30 per cent in upper-income countries. However, as a lower middle-income country, Sri Lanka has been unable to maintain its tax-to-GDP ratio even at the lower threshold of 15 per cent. Figure 3 illustrates the changes in Sri Lanka’s government tax revenue as a percentage of GDP over the years. The significant decline in government tax revenue, combined with irrational government expenditure, has resulted in large budget deficits. To finance these fiscal deficits, the Sri Lankan government has relied on both domestic and foreign debt, exacerbating the debt burden.
Figure 3: Tax Revenue and Overall Fiscal Balance (as % of GDP)
Source: Compiled from data from Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
On the external front, the Sri Lankan economy has experienced continuous current account deficits, reflecting a weakened export sector. As shown in Figure 2 (above), Sri Lanka’s export revenue relative to GDP has declined continuously since 2000. One of the main reasons for this persistent underperformance is the low level of industrialisation. To address this, Sri Lanka needs to diversify its industrial exports by shifting from labour-intensive products to more skilled and technology-driven products. The country is gradually losing its low-cost labour advantage and faces disadvantages related to energy costs. Additionally, Sri Lanka’s inability to implement structural reforms in the economy is a significant factor behind the underperformance of its current account.
Out of the five recent IMF programs, four (excluding the SBA in 2009) have targeted the restructuring of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs). SOE restructuring is also a policy priority in the 17th program, underscoring the country’s long-standing failure to address issues within SOEs — particularly the Ceylon Electricity Board and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation. The persistent large budget and current account deficits have categorised Sri Lanka as a classic twin deficit country, contributing to its macroeconomic instability. Figures 3 (above) and 4 illustrate the evolution of Sri Lanka’s fiscal and current account deficit over the years.
Figure 4: Current Account Balance (as % of GDP)
Source: Compiled from data from Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
Way Forward
To prevent future economic crises and ensure macroeconomic stability, Sri Lanka must adhere to the objectives of the 17th IMF program and implement all required policy adjustments and reforms. Discontinuing the ongoing IMF program or reversing policies will have significant negative repercussions for the economy.
Key actions for Sri Lanka include:
Complete External Debt Restructuring: Proactive measures are needed to successfully restructure external debt.
Maintain a Surplus in the Primary Budget Account: It is crucial to rationalise government expenditure and strengthen government revenue.
Implement Structural Reforms: Addressing the bias against tradable sectors is essential for economic revival. Diversifying industrial exports and fostering growth in skilled and technology-driven sectors can improve productivity and competitiveness.
By following these steps, Sri Lanka can hope to stabilise its economy and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.
*
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent the views of the ‘South Asia @ LSE’ blog, the LSE South Asia Centre or the London School of Economics and Political Science. Please click here for our Comments Policy.
This blogpost may not be reposted by anyone without prior written consent of LSE South Asia Centre; please e-mail southasia@lse.ac.uk for permission.
Tharindu Udayanga Kamburawala is Lecturer in Economics at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka. His research interests include macroeconomic policy and structural reforms, poverty and development policy.
Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis and recovery efforts present a complex narrative marked by internal challenges and external shocks. The crisis, which began in 2019, was exacerbated by ill-advised tax cuts, a poorly managed shift to organic farming, and a series of devastating events such as the 2019 Easter bombings, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Ukraine-Russia war. These factors severely impacted key economic sectors like agriculture and tourism, further straining the country’s depleted foreign exchange reserves. The country’s heavy reliance on foreign debt, particularly high-interest commercial loans, increased its vulnerability to external pressures. As the country transitioned to middle-income status, access to concessional funding declined, leading to a rise in International Sovereign Bonds (ISBs) with short repayment periods. By 2019, commercial loans comprised 56 per cent of Sri Lanka’s foreign debt, up from 2.5 per cent in 2007.
In June 2022, the United Nations warned of a potential “full-blown humanitarian emergency” in Sri Lanka, calling for USD 47 million in aid for the most vulnerable populations. Although the Sri Lankan economy is forecasted to grow moderately by 2.2 per cent in 2024, the country continues to grapple with high poverty rates, income disparity, and labour market issues. The World Bank’s latest biannual Sri Lanka Development Update highlights improvements in inflation, revenues, and a current account surplus driven by remittances and tourism. However, poverty remains high, with 25.9 per cent of the population below the poverty line in 2023. Labour force participation has also witnessed a decline, especially among women and in urban areas, due to the collapse of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
Restructuring Sri Lanka’s debt, particularly with major creditors such as India and China, gives Colombo a certain amount of leverage in negotiations with the IMF and reflects shifting regional dynamics.
The polycrisis severely impacted MSMEs, leading to job losses and hampering recovery efforts. While some MSMEs adapted through digitalisation and flexible work practices, many resorted to layoffs and asset liquidation. Despite their resilience, MSMEs received minimal support from institutions or government stimulus packages. Governance inefficiencies and institutional weaknesses further constrained their growth. Sri Lanka’s path to recovery represents not only an economic challenge but also a geopolitical balancing act. With substantial international assistance, especially from India and strategic reforms, Sri Lanka aims to stabilise its economy, navigate complex international relationships, and achieve sustainable growth.
Geopolitical dynamics and economic recovery
Before the pandemic struck, Sri Lanka was already grappling with high debt levels and fiscal deficits, which constrained its economic management capabilities. The pandemic exacerbated these issues, severely impacting vital economic sectors and leading to a significant GDP contraction of 7.8 per cent in 2022. Inflation soared, and the nation’s foreign reserves dwindled, pushing Sri Lanka towards an economic emergency culminating in a historic financial crisis.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Sri Lankan government sought international help, securing a critical USD 3 billion bailout from the IMF in 2023. This Extended Fund Facility (EFF) aimed at stabilising the economy through a series of ambitious reforms designed to restore fiscal and debt sustainability. These reforms included enhancing the tax system to improve revenue collection, broadening the tax base, and implementing rigorous fiscal consolidation measures. The program also focused on restructuring major state-owned enterprises to reduce their financial burden on the economy. Debt restructuring was essential to the IMF’s intervention in the country. The aim was to reduce the unsustainable debt-to-GDP ratio through negotiations with domestic and international creditors, with the goal of charting a sustainable economic pathway by 2032.
Restructuring Sri Lanka’s debt, particularly with major creditors such as India and China, gives Colombo a certain amount of leverage in negotiations with the IMF and reflects shifting regional dynamics. Sri Lanka’s strategic importance to China, particularly concerning its trade and infrastructure connectivity in the Indian Ocean region under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has intensified after India announced non-participation in the BRI.
China’s involvement in Sri Lanka has been contentious, notably highlighted by the Hambantota Port incident in 2017, where the China Merchants Port Holdings Company acquired an 85 per cent share in the port on a 99-year lease for USD 1.12 billion. That same year, multiple clashes broke out in southern Sri Lanka between protesters and government supporters opposing a port deal with China over concerns about the port area potentially becoming a ‘Chinese colony’. Buddhist clergy also voiced opposition, citing cultural and demographic threats posed by the partnership. However, then-Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe defended the deal as necessary to alleviate the debt burden incurred from port construction under the previous administration.
India and Sri Lanka’s bilateral ties have witnessed an upswing in recent years, boasting the most significant trade relationship within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Recent events, particularly the suspension of Chinese energy projects in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province in 2021, signify a potential re-evaluation of China’s commitment to Sri Lanka. The halting of a project aimed at establishing hybrid energy plants on the Delft, Nagadeepa, and Analthivu islands (reportedly due to security concerns from India due to its proximity to the latter’s southern coastline) suggests a shift in Sri Lanka’s priorities and partnerships. While China’s embassy in Sri Lanka confirmed the suspension without naming India, it aligns with India’s previous protests against a Chinese firm winning a tender for renewable energy plants in the same region.
India and Sri Lanka’s bilateral ties have witnessed an upswing in recent years, boasting the most significant trade relationship within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). With India marginally surpassing China in 2022 to become Sri Lanka’s largest bilateral lender, the resolution of Sri Lanka’s debt relief talks necessitated equitable burden-sharing among creditor nations, with India now holding a more significant stake in the process.
India’s comprehensive support for Sri Lanka
India’s involvement in Sri Lanka’s recovery process underscores its specific economic and strategic interests in the island country. As the first bilateral creditor to provide financial assurances to the IMF, India was pivotal in facilitating the progress of Sri Lanka’s bailout program. It provided financial support totalling around USD 4 billion, which included multiple credit lines and currency assistance, showcasing India’s commitment to stabilising the region amid Sri Lanka’s economic downturn. Indian connectivity initiatives, such as Chennai-Jaffna flights and future ferry services, also underscore the importance of collaboration in bolstering regional connectivity and growth.
Moreover, India’s role has extended beyond financial assistance, emphasising diplomatic engagements as well as enhancing investments in critical sectors such as energy, tourism, and infrastructure to foster long-term development in Sri Lanka. The country’s location in the Indian Ocean is pivotal in India’s security strategy, particularly as a counterbalance to Chinese influence in the region. This strategic dimension is complemented by deep-rooted cultural ties, with initiatives to renovate Buddhist sites and promote religious tourism between the two countries. Cultural engagement also includes support for ethnic reconciliation in Sri Lanka, particularly regarding the Tamil community.
Sri Lanka’s journey from economic turmoil towards recovery reflects a multifaceted approach to stabilisation, integrating economic, strategic, and cultural dimensions through strategic partnerships and ambitious reforms aimed at achieving both short-term recovery and long-term sustainable growth. However, it also entails navigating a delicate path between satisfying international creditors, balancing geopolitical interests between India and China, and implementing inclusive economic policies to reduce poverty and stimulate growth. India’s proactive involvement, with substantial financial support and a focus on infrastructure development, signifies a shift in regional influence while potentially countering China’s BRI. In this way, Sri Lanka’s recovery trajectory will not only redefine its economic future but also shape regional power dynamics and cooperative frameworks.
The Spreading of false narrative of ” Genocide” in Sri Lanka by Canada, particularly the Prime Minister’s office is unacceptable and never seems to stop. Spreading inaccurate propaganda about Sri Lanka continuously repeating the term Genocide which has no cognitive bearing on the truth and refers to Sri Lanka’s defense of Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity against armed insurgents of the Tamil Tigers and their supportive operatives that lasted almost 4 decades and was put down by her armed forces.There were vicious crimes against humanity committed by them against civillians and public property to which Sri Lanka responded with justifiable force and eventually annihilated the insurgents as a result of which many dissenting albeit supportiveTamils fled Sri Lanka and took refuge in various countries particularly Canada and were absorbed into mainstream Canadian life.Having done this they have regrouped in an attempt to revitalize the global Insurgent Tamil Separatist movement and have begun false propaganda which the Canadian Prime Minister’s Office has picked up perhaps to bolster their chances of re- election as well as other agendas which they seem to think could favour them by spreading these false accusations where it is the Tamil Tigers themselves who committed horrendous acts against civilians and need to be further incarcerated for their crimes against humanity all the while a miniscule minority against a majority of over 85%.
As such, a global news source – World News has now begun a campaign supporting the Canadian PM’s Office spreading the false narrative of genocide under the caption” World News Indo-Asian News Genocide Over 2009 Incident: Sri Lanka On Canada”.
Sri Lanka Foreign Secretary Wijewardane has requested Canada to engage with Sri Lanka in a “constructive manner” and facilitate dialogue and reconciliation rather than make unacceptable and inaccurate statements to the detriment of Sri Lanka with statements which cannot really be confirmed or corroborated and created merely to suit the agenda and objectives of the Canadian Government and in response to the melodramatic scenarios of Tamils domiciled in Canada which in turn would obviously help Canada in a forthcoming Election perhaps for very apparent reasons..
In a recent media quote “The Sri Lankan government has once again slammed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for engaging in vote bank politics by consistently spreading “false narrative” about the ethnic conflict against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) based on one sided information.”
In a meeting with the Canadian Deputy Minister for International Development, Christopher MacLennan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier this week, Lankan Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane expressed the island nation’s deep concerns over the “high-level pronouncements” made in Canada “representing a false narrative of genocide” in connection with the conflict that took place in the country for over three decades till 2009.
Foreign Secretary Wijewardane requested Canada to engage with Sri Lanka in a “constructive manner” and facilitate dialogue and reconciliation.
She has expressed Sri Lanka’s deep concern regarding high-level pronouncements made in Canada in recent years representing a false narrative of genocide in connection with the conflict that took place in Sri Lanka and also requested Canada to engage with Sri Lanka in a constructive manner and facilitate dialogue and reconciliation,”
In response, the Canadian Deputy Minister appreciated Sri Lanka’s efforts at reconciliation and assured to convey Sri Lanka’s concerns to the relevant authorities in Canada.
The news that Justin Trudeau designated May 18 as ‘Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day’, marking 15 years since the end of the bloody civil war in Sri Lanka is truly an affront to the Democratic Government of Sri Lanka where the PM of Canada seems to be willing to consort with terrorist supporters and a group of armed and dangerous insurgents.It is curious that Canada not long ago outlawed the Tamil Tigers and hounded them out of existence and now has chosen to respond to the demands of their support in Canada which this action seems to represent and to reiterate, totally unacceptable.
“Two years ago, Canada’s Parliament unanimously voted to recognise May 18 as Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day. We will always advocate for justice and accountability for the crimes committed during the conflict, as well as for the hardships faced by all in Sri Lanka,” stated Canada’s PM where there seems to be a hollow ring to the accountability where the greater indemnity lies in the actions of the insurgents rather than that of the Government defending territory.
The Governmant of Sri Lanka immediately reacted to the allegations of “genocide” and accused the Canadian PM of engaging in “electoral vote bank politics”.
The Canadian PM;s rhetoric by far overrides that of his noble father Pierre Elliott who always remained a close ally of Sri Lanka and never chose to involve himself in the internal matters of Sri Lanka it needs to be observed and appreciated with gratitude.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on May 19 arrested four Sri Lankans on suspicion of links to ISIS terrorism. According to the Gujarat Director General of Police, Mohammad Nusrat (35), Mohammad Faarukh (35), Mohammad Nafran (27) and Mohammad Rasdeen (43), have divulged to investigators that they were earlier associated with the banned Sri Lankan terrorist outfit, National Thowheeth Jamath (NJT), and joined ISIS after getting in touch with a Pakistani handler named Abu Bakr Al Bagdadi. The Anti-Terrorist Squad has travelled to Sri Lanka to further their terrorism investigation.
There is no question about their terrorism. That has now been established. Otherwise, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad won’t be coming to Sri Lanka.
However, Sri Lankan authorities who fail repeatedly, are trying to playdown the terrorism threat. They have no credibility left after they failed to prevent the ISIS terrorist attack on April 21, 2019 that killed 268 people and still fail to deliver justice. Trying to push this latest terrorism event under the carpet is unacceptable.
These are not their only failings.
Banned Sri Lankan terrorist outfit, National Thowheeth Jamath (NJT), has been involved in terrorist attacks since at least 2008.
Documented first act of Thawheed terrorists (though it was not termed so by incompetent Sri Lankan authorities) took place in 2008 in Thihariya, a town in the Gampaha district in clashes between Thawheed and traditional Muslims. Their next terrorist attack was on a Beruwala mosque in July 2009.
Quoted from the Sunday Times article – The relatively new group has emerged in several areas of Muslim concentration. Last year, clashes between Thawheed and the traditional Muslims occurred in a mosque in Thihariya, a town in the Gampaha district. The clashes began after the Thawjeed group, armed with knives, swords and axes stormed the mosque. The clash with their rivals damaged cars, motor cycles and bicycles. A special Police team has been deployed in the area.”
In 2023 at least 35 radicalized terrorists from Kandy, Sri Lanka travelled to Syria to join ISIS terrorists to fight against the Syrian government. No action was taken by Sri Lankan authorities even after their return.
Radicalized terrorists continued their terrorism in Sri Lanka that resulted in riots every year from 2014 to 2018.
In 2019 the same NTJ terrorist group in affiliation with ISIS (there is a video they created which shows their affiliation with the ISIS) carried out the Easter Sunday terrorist attack killing 268 people.
Though Sri Lankan authorities failed and continue to fail in handling ISIS and other radicalized terrorist activities for political reasons, other countries have not been complacent. In 2021 USA charged 3 Sri Lankans for aiding and supporting ISIS terrorism. They include (quoted) Mohamed Naufar, the second emir” for the group of ISIS supporters that called itself ISIS in Sri Lanka,” who allegedly led the group’s propaganda efforts, recruited others to join ISIS, and led a series of multi-day military-type trainings; Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan, who allegedly helped manufacture the IEDs used in the Easter Attacks; and Ahamed Milhan Hayathu Moahmed, who allegedly executed a police officer in order to obtain the officer’s firearm, shot a suspected informant, and scouted a location for a separate terrorist attack.”
Three Foreign Nationals Charged with Conspiring to Provide Material Supp… The Justice Department announced today that three Sri Lankan citizens have been charged with terrorism offenses,…
In addition, a credible Japanese government funded website, The Diplomat, carried an article urging Sri Lanka to do more to arrest Islamic radicalization.
The world knows Sri Lanka is a den of ISIS and other radicalized terrorists. Only Sri Lankan authorities live in denial.
Rattled by the arrest of 4 ISIS terrorists in Gujarat, Sri Lankan authorities have arrested two more in Sri Lanka in connection with the terrorist group (Mohammed Nusrat and Mohommad Nafran).
Who are they trying to fool? Instead of arresting ISIS terrorists in Sri Lanka, politically motivated and incompetent police and CID units have arrested a lecturer over his factual statements! Shooting the messenger is not going to save the world from Sri Lankan origin ISIS terrorists.
There is no point in blaming India, Israel or any other. The problem is in Sri Lanka and nothing has been done to prevent or correct radicalization and terrorism.
Sri Lanka is unfortunately a hotbed and an incubator of ISIS and other radicalized terrorists. Stop pushing this fact under the carpet. Take responsibility, act and dismantle this radicalized network that is easily over 250,000 strong today. That is many times more than the armed JVP and LTTE combined!
While BlackRock veterans run Joe Biden’s Treasury, Donald Trump’s presidential campaign is financed by Wall Street’s highest-paid CEO, of Blackstone, the world’s largest commercial landlord. Ben Norton explains how Wall Street investment companies, asset managers, and banks essentially buy US elections.
“The services of war heroes who sacrificed their lives and sustained injuries for the peace in motherland as well as the sacrifices of their families will always remain in our memory and we are eternally grateful to them.”
Said the State Minister of Defence Hon. Premitha Bandara Tennakoon while gracing another programme organized by the Sri Lanka Army to look into the welfare and administrative affairs of retired/ medically retired military personnel and family members of war heroes held today (Jun 01) at the Army Volunteer Force Training School in Diyatalawa.
State Minister Tennakoon was received by the Commander of the Security Forces (Central) Major General Rohitha Aluvihare on his arrival at the venue this morning. Army authorities had established help desks under seven of its Directorates to facilitate retired service personnel and war hero families to forward their grievances and seek redress.
Speaking further State Minister Tennakoon praised the immense sacrifices of the parents and family members of the war heroes during the war, as well as the supreme service of our brave war heroes who fought to uphold the territorial integrity of the motherland. He also praised the services of the tri forces both during and off duty.
He said that discussions have been held with Health Minister Hon. Ramesh Pathirana regarding the measures to be taken to provide services on priority basis for retired war heroes and war hero families at state hospitals. He also said that a programme is to be implemented, that would ensure a priority service to them when obtaining services from state banks and other government institutions. He revealed of a proposed subsidized loan scheme for serving and retired war heroes and said that the discussions are in progress with the chairman of the Bank of Ceylon in this regard.
In addition, the President has submitted a cabinet paper to the Parliament on providing land to war heroes and their family members on priority basis under the ‘Urumaya’ programme of providing freehold deeds for land, presently implemented by the government. Retired veterans and war hero families will be able to get those services in the future through the Divisional Secretariats.
State Minister Tennakoon further stated that the discussion were held with the Foreign Ministry to allocate a job quota for retired veterans and members of war hero families when the government sends workers for foreign employment.
Following the State Minister’s address those who had arrived to obtain services presented their grievances to relevant authorities.
Additional District Governors of Badulla and Monaragala, Senior Military Officers, State Officials, a large number of war heroes and their family members also participated in this event.
Colombo, June 1 (Daily Mirror) Claiming that he never meant to call billionaire businessman Elon Musk an economic hit-man, NPP Economic Council member Sunil Hadunnetti said today he expresses his regrets to Elon Musk.
Speaking during a Business Forum, Hadunnetti said his reference to economic hit-men was to James Packer and George Soros who were brought into the country during the previous Ranil Wickremesinghe government.
“I was misquoted on what I said about Elon Musk. I didn’t mean to call Elon Misk an economic hit-man. What I explained was that world renowned investors never come to Sri Lanka due to its instability, political interventions in the economy, lack of discipline and lawlessness. My reference to economic hit-men was not to Elon Musk but to James Packer and George Soros. We do not call them honest entrepreneurs but economic hit-men. I never meant to call Elon Musk an economic hit-man. I offer my regrets to Elon Musk as I never meant to call him an economic hit-man,” Hadunnetti said.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe underscored that according to the constitution, prioritizing Buddhism is imperative. He emphasized that the responsibility of upholding this principle is vested in the executive, legislature and judiciary.
Emphasizing the indisputability of this matter, the President further stated that if anyone seeks to alter this principle, they should endeavour to amend the constitution accordingly.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks today (01) during his participation in the inauguration ceremony of the Gurudev Suva Arana Gilan Bhikshu Centre,” constructed in Kiriwatthuduwa, Homagama.
The President emphasized the need for acknowledgment that the executive, the constitution and the judiciary, as the three branches of government, should prioritize the Buddhist doctrine within the country. He emphasized that failure to support this principle constitutes a violation of the constitution, emphasizing the obligation of all Members of Parliament to protect it.
The President highlighted that the constitution of this country outlines people’s sovereignty, prioritization of Buddhism and preservation of territorial integrity as its core principles. He stressed the importance of consistently advancing while safeguarding these principles, emphasizing that any opposition to them constitutes a breach of the constitution.
Additionally, the President shared that he was entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the treatment of a ‘critically ill patient’. He noted that the patient, who was on the brink of death, is now showing gradual signs of recovery. The President conveyed his heartfelt appreciation in advance for the invaluable guidance and support provided by the Maha Sangha throughout this endeavour.
As per the suggestion of the late Chief Registrar of Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya, and the Chief incumbent of Sri Dhathumaluwa Viharaya Kohuwala, Venerable Mapalagama Siri Somissara Nayaka Thero, and upon the recommendation of current Chief incumbent of Sri Dhathumaluwa Viharaya Kohuwala Venerable Pitigala Sonuttara Nayaka Thero, the Gurudev Suva Arana Gilan Bhikshu Centre” has been established to cater to the needs of monks locally and internationally.
The Gurudev Suva Arana Gilan Bhikshu Centre” comprises a five-story building and a three-story building, facilitating simultaneous treatment for fifty monks. Its amenities include 20 rooms, a ward yard, an alms hall, medicine stores, emergency treatment units, office rooms and hostel for doctors, ensuring comprehensive care and accommodation for those in need.
Under the supervision of qualified medical professionals, facilities have been established to provide treatment for sick monks. Additionally, a conducive environment has been created to accommodate five hundred monks for meditation practice.
The construction of this Gurudev Suva Arana Gilan Bhikshu Centre has been accomplished through the labour contributions of the Sri Lanka Army, supported by both local and international donors.
Venerable Bhikkuni Neunghaeng, the Chief of the Buddhist hospital in Ulsan, South Korea, and SinDaw, a Bhikkuni Kaushon from the Long Fong Monastery in Taiwan, have generously contributed to the medical equipment of this facility. Their contributions were made in response to an invitation extended by Venerable Katuwana Wijithawansa, Sri Lankaramadhipathi, Hethu, South Korea.
The President, after unveiling the plaque and inaugurating the Gurudev Suva Arana Gilan Bhikshu Centre, proceeded to conduct an inspection tour of the facility.
During the ceremony, homage was paid to the current Chief incumbent of Sri Dhathumaluwa Viharaya Kohuwala Venerable Pitigala Sonuttara Nayaka Thero, for his national and religious service. Furthermore, acknowledgment was extended to him for his dedication to establishing the Gurudev Suva Arana Gilan Bhikshu Centre, catering to monks both domestically and internationally. This gesture served as an expression of gratitude from the Sri Lankan Ramayana Maha Nikaya. Following the conferral of the Sri Sannath Patra honorary title, the President presented the vijinipata to him.
The President also bestowed a commemorative gift upon Venerable Neunghaeng, the head of the Buddhist hospital in Ulsan, South Korea, who generously provided the essential medical equipment for this monk hospital centre. Additionally, a commemorative gift was presented to Mrs. Sandhya Kantilatha, who graciously donated the land for the construction of this Bhikshu Hospital.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe further stated:
This marks the establishment of the first dedicated hospital for monks in Sri Lanka. While our country’s hospitals have traditionally accommodated monk wards, this facility is distinctively reserved solely for the care of sick monks. The government extends its gratitude to all contributors, particularly the efforts led by Bhikkuni Neunghaeng of South Korea.
I wish to emphasize that we have sought on-going support from the Ministry of Health – Indigenous Medicine section to sustain this endeavour, and I assure you that such assistance will be forthcoming. The government is also committed to providing resources for the continued development and enhancement of this hospital.
Moreover, situated in a stunning natural setting, it is imperative that we prioritize the protection of this environment as we progress forward with this project.
An argument has emerged advocating for the separation of government and Buddhism. However, considering the legal framework, every citizen in our country has the right to practice the religion of their choice, or to hold no religious beliefs at all.
Moreover, our constitution mandates that any government should accord priority to Buddhism. This responsibility is not solely vested in the government but extends to the state as a whole. Therefore, the support of all three branches of the state—the executive led by the President, the Parliament led by the Speaker and the Judiciary led by the Chief Justice—is essential to uphold this principle.
Failure to provide this support goes against the Constitution. As Members of Parliament, we have all taken an oath to uphold the constitution and it is incumbent upon us to adhere to its principles. Despite the conflicts experienced in our country, such a request has never before been raised or discussed.
It is essential to recognize that the three branches of government, the executive, the legislature and the judiciary should prioritize the Buddhist doctrine within our nation. While debate may arise regarding the specifics of implementation, the fundamental principle remains indisputable. As a government, it is imperative that we adhere to it. If there is a desire to amend this principle, it must be done through constitutional amendments.
The constitution of our country underscores three fundamental principles: people’s sovereignty, prioritizing Buddhism and maintaining territorial integrity. It is imperative that we uphold these principles as the basis for our actions. Any opposition to these principles is deemed a violation of the constitution.
At present, our hospital is caring for numerous patients, and I have been entrusted with the responsibility of treating one particular patient. We are making gradual progress in treating this critically ill individual, engaging in on-going discussions to ensure the best possible outcome.
Healing a patient is not an instantaneous process; it requires time and dedication. It is estimated that it will take another three to four years to fully treat this patient. However, we are grateful for the opportunity to undertake this important work. I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the venerable Maha Sangha for their invaluable support in this endeavour.”
A report in The Island (May 20, 2024) states that the UN human rights office has criticised the Sri Lankan government’s failure to acknowledge and hold accountable the perpetrators of tens of thousands of enforced disappearances … Authors of the report also accuse the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam of engaging in abductions” which were described as tantamount” to enforced disappearances” (May 20, 2024). Continuing, the report adds that the UN. The High Commissioner for Human Rights had stated: Accountability must be addressed. We need to see institutional reform for reconciliation to succeed”.
In the meantime, the Secretary General of Amnesty International (AI) had called for Sri Lanka to be referred to the UN Security Council and subjected to international war crimes inquiry when she participated to pay tribute to those who perished at Mullivaikkal. While the call for Sri Lanka to be referred to the Security Council may have pleased those who came to pay tribute, the reality is that such a referral would inevitably be vetoed. However, the fact remains that AI along with the UN Human Rights is advocating a prosecutorial approach to Accountability.
For instance, the Nuremberg Trial was strictly prosecutorial. In contrast, the Marshall Aid Plan was Victim based. While the objective of the former was to seek justice for the victims by prosecuting the perpetrators of the crimes, it was the latter that enabled Germany to recover and join the community of nations as a powerful and respected member.
The question that divides scholars and others who pursue accountability is; which approach to adopt. Should it be prosecutorial or victim based? While some, such as the UN report cited above advocate a prosecutorial approach for the sake of justice, others such as the High Commissioner are non-committal as to which approach to adopt. Yet, others want some aspects of both approaches. Therefore, the first question to be addressed is which approach to adopt, taking into account the particularities of the Sri Lankan society and the background that led to the armed conflict.
ESTABLISHING the CONTEXT
At a fundamental level, the raison d’etre for the armed conflict was the deep sense of grievance felt by the Tamil community; a circumstance they believed could only be overcome by resorting to an armed conflict to establish a separate state for themselves. For those representing the State of Sri Lanka, their bounden duty was to protect and preserve the territorial integrity of their cherished unitary state in keeping with Article 3 of Protocol II that state: Nothing in the Protocol shall be invoked for the purpose of affecting the sovereignty of a State or the responsibility of the government by all legitimate means to maintain or re-establish law and order in the State or to defend the national unity and territorial integrity of the State”. The only means by which these vastly contending positions could be resolved was through an armed conflict; a fact recognized by the UN Human Rights Commission in paragraph 182 and 183 of their OISL report of 2015.
Pargraph 182 states: Article 3 common to the four Geneva Conventions relating to conflicts not of an international character is applicable to the situation in Sri Lanka, with all parties to the conflict bound to respect the guarantees pertaining to the treatment of civilians ….”
Paragraph 183 states: In addition, the government and armed groups that are parties to the conflict are bound alike by the relevant rules of customary international law applicable in non-international armed conflict”.
Therefore, if both the Sri Lankan State and the LTTE are bound alike” by the relevant rules of customary international law applicable in non-international armed conflict”, why is all the attention to address accountability ONLY fixated on the Sri Lankan State and none on the LTTE. Since most of those who perished in Mullivaikkal were victims of the policy adopted by the LTTE to take civilians hostage, and continue to endanger the security of hundreds of thousands taken hostage by continuing to engage in hostilities, should NOT the LTTE also be held accountable? This being the case, would the evidence gathering that is currently being undertaken by the UNHRC in order to exercise Universal Jurisdiction, also apply to policies such as hostage taking and shooting escapees?
PROSECUTORIAL APPROACH
Judging from the attention given ONLY to the government of Sri Lanka by the UNHRC and by entities such as AI, the outcome of any judicial processes would be skewed, which means NO justice, despite the fact that the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE are bound alike” by relevant rules of customary international law as in common Article 3 and Protocol II; a fact confirmed below.
INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE, Judgment of 27 June 1986, (NICARAGUA v. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA), MERITS Judgment – para. 215 to 292
The conflict between the contras’ forces and those of the Government of Nicaragua is an armed conflict which is not of an international character”. The acts of the contras towards the Nicaraguan Government are therefore governed by the law applicable to conflicts of that character; whereas the actions of the United States in and against Nicaragua fall under the legal rules relating to international conflicts. Because the minimum rules applicable to international and to non-international conflicts are identical, there is no need to address the question whether those actions must be looked at in the context of the rules which operate for the one or for the other category of conflict. The relevant principles are to be looked for in the provisions of Article 3 of each of the four Conventions of August 12, 1949, the text of which, identical in each Convention, expressly refers to conflict not having an international character” (ICJ Judgment, Nicaragua v. U.S para 215 – 292)
In the Military and Paramilitary Activities in and against Nicaragua, the International Court of Justice observed that the acts of the Contras, fighting against the Nicaraguan Government, were governed by the law applicable to armed conflict not of an international character i.e. Common Article 3. Similarly, in the Tublada case, the Inter-American Commission considered”: Common Article 3’s mandatory provisions expressly bind and apply equally to both parties in internal conflicts, i.e. government and dissident forces. Moreover, the obligation to apply Common Article 3 is absolute for both parties and independent of the obligation of the other. Therefore, both the MTP attackers [the armed opposition group fighting in the conflict under consideration] and the Argentina armed forces had the same duties under humanitarian law” (Zegveld, Accountability of Armed Opposition Groups in International Law, p.21, ICJ Judgment Nicaragua v. US para 119 and Case No. 11/137).
Judging from the ICJ opinions cited above, it is certain that not only violations by the Sri Lanka Government but also violations perpetrated by the LTTE should be reviewed in the course of a Judicial Trial, since they are bound alike”. Therefore, although violations by the Government forces and LTTE would be judged by Common Article 3, the fact remains that the leadership of the LTTE who ordered the taking of 300,000 plus civilians, hostage is not among the living or has disappeared, and cannot be subjected to a trial despite the fact that the act of taking civilians hostage amount to a war crime and a crime against humanity. Thus, the exercise of gathering evidence against Government perpetrators pales in significance compared with endangering the security of 300,000 plus civilians that were taken hostage. Despite this, a prosecutorial process would mean a skewed outcome of any trial because of the strong possibility that violations perpetrated by the Sri Lankan Government would dominate the trial.
Thus, while a few of those associated with the LTTE would have to face prosecution, the majority cannot be located or identified since they have acquired new identities and are domiciled in foreign countries. Also, others who were in positions to exercise command responsibility, but are no longer among the living cannot be prosecuted for the crimes committed, e.g. taking 300,000 civilians hostage and killing those who attempted to escape.
Under circumstances where it would be next to impossible to identify and prosecute former members of the LTTE because they are dispersed primarily in the West with fresh identities, a prosecutorial approach would lead to an asymmetric outcome resulting in the polarization of the two communities to a degree that could give cause for instability and even resumption of hostilities since the numbers associated with successive Governments who could be identified and prosecuted would significantly be more.
Furthermore, while it would be possible to identify those associated with the Government responsible for command, it is NOT possible to identify the leaders of the LTTE who were responsible because they are no longer among the living.
The net effect of such an asymmetric outcome following a prosecutorial process would permanently damage the efforts advocated and undertaken to bring about reconciliation.by successive Governments. For the UNHRC to include the provision in several of its Resolutions that a credible justice process should include independent judicial and prosecutorial institutions….”, is because their perception is based on the premise that prosecuting the guilty would foster reconciliation.
While such a premise may be applicable to normal law and order situations, it is NOT applicable to Sri Lanka’s armed conflict that spanned three decades involving two communities if the prosecutorial process causes disproportionate outcomes as referred to above. Furthermore, if the outcome is such that more from the Sinhala majority community is prosecuted than from the minority Tamil community for whatever reason, the consequences would be to seriously setback the reconciliation processes; an outcome that defeats what the UNHRC hopes to achieve.
VICTIM BASED APPROACH
The real possibility of such serious outcomes, requires that the scope of the investigation is limited to such a degree that legal prosecution is not possible in the context of Sri Lanka. However, the scope of the investigation could be such that it is possible to establish the body of evidence associated with a particular incident There is strong evidence that the security forces targeted temporary hospitals despite being aware of their location. However, there is also counter evidence that the LTTE directed artillery fire from such locations and moved their ordinance soon after, thus tempting the security forces to target these make-shift hospitals. The investigation would then be limited to what each party to the conflict did in a given situation and not go beyond as to who was culpable to warrant prosecution under the relevant laws. Investigations would thus be a record of actions taken by respective parties to the conflict without delving further to establish which party was responsible for which violation of which laws, Human Rights or Humanitarian.
While this concept takes root, the leadership of both communities should jointly develop mechanisms to address the needs of victims and take joint responsibility for their implementation, instead of depending solely on the elected Government for Reconciliation to be effective and unity restored.
CONCLUSION
In light of the hard reality associated with prosecutorial processes cited above, and the ruling by the International Court of Justice in the case. Nicaragua v. U.S the acts of the Contras fighting against the Nicaraguan Government were governed by the law applicable to armed conflict not of an international character i.e. Common Article 3…”. Therefore, the approach should be to limit investigations, not with the intent of prosecution because it would be skewed for reasons cited above. but with the intent of recording the events that occurred during the armed conflict, and which party to the armed conflict could be identified with the respective violations with a view to use this body of evidence to institute reforms to prevent recurrence.
It is indeed a matter of serious concern that successive Sri Lankan Governments have failed to acknowledge that the Sri Lankan Security Forces and the LTTE are bound alike by the laws applicable to the armed conflict in Sri Lanka. This has seriously dented addressing issues of accountability in a balanced manner.
At the end of such investigations the present leadership of the parties to the conflict should acknowledge the serious omissions and commissions committed by both parties and move on by declaring the broadest possible amnesty to all who were associated with the conflict as stated in Section 5 of Article 6 of the Additional protocol II of 1977.
Article 6 Section 5 States: At the end of hostilities, the authorities in power shall endeavor to grant the broadest possible amnesty to persons who have participated in the armed conflict, or those deprived of their liberty for reasons related to the armed conflict, whether they are interned or detained”.
Since such amnesties and pardons have been instituted starting with the release of child soldiers and nearly 11,000 plus former LTTE combatants and more recently the release of prisoners, the practice has been in operation from time to time. This process would have gained momentum if not for the clamour for prosecutorial processes locally and resolutions of UNHRC that are tantamount to External intervention. The need therefore, is to regularize this practice and bring closure to an issue whose time has come.
Colombo, May 31 (Daily Mirror)- President Ranil Wickremesinghe is trying to open doors to economic hitmen like billionaire Elon Musk, George Soros and James Packer by introducing the Economic Transformation Bill, NPP Economic Council member Sunil Hadunnetti said.
Addressing a meeting with the business community in Badulla recently, he said President Ranil Wickremesinghe claimed that Elon Musk is coming to Sri Lanka to provide WIFI.
“Ranil said in 2015 that free WIFI will be made available to all. He has now dropped the word ‘free’ and says WIFI will be given in 2024. Elon Musk will never give free WIFI,” he said.
He said Ranil Wickremesinghe claimed earlier that James Packer is coming to invest in Sri Lanka. But he never came with any investments.
Hadunnetti said a publicity stunt is being operated through a separate company by using government funds to show that foreign investors are coming to the country.
“There are businessmen in the world who visit countries on request of the Presidents in those countries. But,they do not always bring in investment,” he said.
LankaPropertyWeb (LPW), Sri Lanka’s leading real estate portal, is pleased to announce the release of its 2024 Western Province Land Price Index (LPI). The index reveals a significant 7.8% increase in land prices compared to the previous year. Highlights include a 13% surge in Gampaha District, an 8% rise in Kalutara District, and a rebound of 2.3% in land prices in Colombo 1-15. Mr. Daham Gunaratna, LPW’s Managing Director, provides insights into the market trends driving the surge. Additionally, LPW’s methodology and services are outlined.
Attached to this email is an in-depth PR article along with accompanying pictures. We kindly request the publication of this press release in your esteemed newspapers and/or on your websites to reach a broader audience and inform readers about the latest trends in the real estate market. Including links in the article will enhance its quality and relevance, driving more traffic to your website upon publication.
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An official tweet was released on 28 May 2024 by the outgoing US envoy highlighting a meeting held with members of Sri Lanka’s election commission on the importance of voting in free & fair elections”. Expectedly there is no response from Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister who we presume is in charge of all the diplomats & diplomatic protocols that all in the diplomatic community must abide by as per Geneva Diplomatic Protocols. Is the Foreign Minister tasked to protect the interests of Sri Lanka or the interest of other countries?
Needless to say, this meeting automatically takes our memories back to the time Britain’s High Commissioner David Gladstone was unceremoniously declared persona non grata for interfering in local elections & packed off back to the UK.
The reason – 10 May 1991 Local Government Elections
The incident – lodging a complaint at the Police Station about SLFP supporters being denied entering polling booth by UNP thugs at the Dickwella polling centre.
Gladstone was given 10 days to leave Sri Lanka.
Ironically, Gladstone’s next appointment ended up Ukraine!
Ironically days later 21 May 1991 Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated.
Increasingly, we see diplomats not only visiting everywhere & anywhere they please without informing Sri Lanka’s foreign office & having a member of the foreign office accompany them as was a practice in the past, envoys are crossing the line of diplomacy. Their interference” has become a common occurrence. It may come to a point where people in positions begin to function according to the dictates of the diplomats than the politicians.
While, we can fault the diplomats and highlight their lack of diplomacy, the bigger fault lies in our own people who fail to see how such meetings can compromise their own position and the Independent role expected of them.
There is little point brandishing a signboard INDEPENDENT” if they do not function as an independent body. There is little point bragging about being independent” if they do not act independent.
If judges do not attend or mix & mingle with ordinary citizens in view of any conflict of interest, can they wine & dine with diplomats & hold regular meetings with them. Do their funding & training programs warrant loosening of that distance that should be kept?
Exactly how independent” are elections in the US for the US envoy to be concerned about free & fair elections in Sri Lanka?
Elections were held for women in 1931 when US disenfranchised black people from voting. American blacks got to vote only in 1965 (black Americans have been voting only for 59 years!).
While 20,000 Sri Lankan prisoners do not get voting rights because of a lethargy in arranging voting for them, the US by law denies 5.1million felons voting rights.
Our concern regarding the meeting with the election commission follows a timeline of US meddling in elections of other countries.
US interference in foreign elections
2015 Presidential Elections – Sri Lanka
Regime change in 2015 was jointly planned by the Indian intelligence & US to oust Mahinda Rajapakse’s govt. It was this operation that presented a common candidate & a pro-US alliance that became the common opposition. Maithripala Sirisena was selected as the common candidate & won enabling a string of pro-US/Indian decisions thereafter.
India appears to be copying everything US is doing as interference in UK’s 2019 election by India was highlighted by Times of India with BJP supporters campaigning for the Conservative Party via whatsapp messages across the country.
2002 Parliamentary Elections – Bolivia
US is said to have financed eradication of cocoa farms & warned voters not to vote for Evo Morales. USAID created a political party reform project” with motive to create pro-US political parties camouflaged as pro-democracy”.
1996 Presidential Election – Russia
US assistance for Boris Yeltsin’s election campaign is no secret. US had sent a team of campaign experts & were given an unlimited budget. US used their influence in IMF to grant Russia a $10.2billion loan to keep the Russian pro-US govt afloat. Though Yeltsin’s inner circle misused the funds, IMF turned a blind eye. Many view the election as being rigged to Yeltsins advantage.
1996 Parliamentary Elections – Mongolia
NED (National Endowment for Democracy) is accused of helping unite several political parties, intellectuals, businessmen, students & other activists into a Democratic Union Coalition” & given training in grassroot campaigning & membership recruiting. NED had also helped distribute 350,000 copies of a manifesto calling for private property rights, free press & foreign investment. The NED enemy was Mongolian People’s Revolutionary Party.
1992 Parliamentary Elections – Albania
USAID, NDI, IRI provided anti-socialist political groups – funding, training & media support & US embassy publicly supported Albania’s Democratic Party. According to Los Angeles Times, US also provided advisors & vehicles for their campaign & threatened to withhold aidif Socialist Party of Albania won the elections.
1990 Parliamentary Elections – Czechoslovakia
New York Times reveals NED $400,000 funding for pro-US political parties to buy computers, fax machines copiers for their campaign.
1986 Parliamentary Elections – Costa Rica
IRI (International Republican Institute) supported the Social Christian Unity Party giving grants of $75,000, $100,000 & $145,000 for elections in 1986, 1987 & 1988 through the Association for the Defense of Liberty & Democracy in Costa Rica.
1984 Presidential Elections – El Salvador
Washington Post reveals US diplomatic pressure, media support & covert funding to the campaign of Jose Duarte.
1984 Parliamentary Elections – Grenada
Investigative journalist Bob Woodward says CIA spent $675,000 on education & campaigns after the Grenada invasion in 1983 & used opinion polls to swing voters towarsd a pro-US candidate.
1984, 1989 Parliamentary Elections – Panama
As per Manuel Noriega’s trial, CIA & drug cartels funded the election campaign of Nicolas Vallarino.
CIA is also accused of covertly campaigning to oust General Noriega from office. Radio & tv transmitters were given to opposition groups while US slapped sanctions on Panama after US failed coup in 1988.
1984 & 1990 Parliamentary Elections – Nicaragua
US is accused of funding & bribing anti-Sandinista opposition leaders to boycott the 1984 elections.
Funds also flowed to anti-Sandinista opposition groups to oust him from power in 1990.
1983 Parliamentary Elections – Italy
Journalist Bob Woodward says CIA requested Saudi to spend $2m to assist a secret operation to prevent victory of the Italian Communist Party in 1983 elections.
1982 Parliamentary Elections – Mauritius
CIA is said to have given financial support to Ramgoolam’s election campaign to defeat Anerood Jugnath thinking he would close Muauritian ports to US Navy as well as challenge Diego Garcia.
1980 Presidential Election – Iran
US is accused of covertly supporting campaign of Ahmad Madani who later fled to US.
Japanese elections in 1952, 1855, 1958, 1960, 1963, 1967, 1969, 1972 & 1980
CIA is accused of interfering in Japan’s 1st elections, withholding details of the new US-Japan security treaty from public, funding the Liberal Party, later Liberal Democratic Party, CIA is accused of offering payments to Japan Socialist Party members to weaken potential anti-US campaigns, sending US advisors as US-based businessmen”.
1955, 1958, 1987 Parliamentary Elections – Laos
US State Dept documents reveal US funded the Royal Lao Army, the Govt & provided food aid to villages to discourage them supporting communism.
Former CIA agent & US diplomat James Liley says we pumped a relatively large amount of money to politicians who would listen to our advice” – CIA-friendly politicians won 54 out of 57 seats.
1971 Presidential Election – Vietnam
US is accused of running a number of covert operations to get Nguven Thieu elected.
1970 Presidential Elections – Chile
As per Church Committee, CIA supported the kidnapping of the Chilean Army Commander-in-Chief Gen Rene Schneider to prevent him confirming Allende as President. Kidnapping attempt failed & Schneider was shot & died 3 days later. US took pains to undermine Allendes presidency which paved way for his overthrow by coup.
1966 Parliamentary Elections – Bolivia
CIA had covertly funded groups that supported Gen. Barrientos for elections. Thereafter Che Guevara was killed in 1967.
1966 Parliamentary Elections – Costa Rica
US supported Costa Rica’s National Liberation Party
1966 Parliamentary Elections – Dominican Republic
US State Dept Office of Historian documents reveal US support for Joaquin Balaguer – assistance cover advice, media, information.
1964 Parliamentary Elections – Bolivia
CIA had covertly financed media, political groups, trade unions, student groups, youth groupsto ensure a pro-US government came to power. $1.150000 had been allocated over 3 years for this operation. US is said to have covertly funded Gen. Barrientos in the military coup of 1964.
1964 Presidential Elections – Chile
US govt is said to have given $2.6m to candidate Montalva who opposed Salvador Allende & to character assassinate Allende. The Church Committee in 1975 exposed US involvement in Chile’s elections.
1964 Parliamentary Elections – Somalia
US is accused of covertly influencing elections & ensure officials were pro-West.
1962 Parliamentary Elections – Brazil
Time Weiner’s book Legacy of Ashes speaks of a plan by US President JFK & US envoy in Brazil Lincoln Gordon to spend $8m to swing the election & prepare for a military coup against President Goulart. The funding went to Brazilians who opposed Goulart. Goulart was deposed in 1964 by military coup which ruled Brazil till 1985.
1962 Parliamentary Elections – Peru
US State Dept historians office reveals CIA funded the American Popular Revolutionary Alliance in 1962 & even supported the labor movement against President Alvarado.
1960 Congo
Following the victory of Patrice Lumumba, he was assassinated in a US-led covert operation in January 1961.
1959 Parliamentary Elections – Nepal
CIA is accused of covertly assisting Koirala & Nepali Congress to win 1959 elections.
1958 Parliamentary Elections – Guatemala
CIA is accused of covertly aiding campaign of Jose Salazar to the tune of $97,000 to oust govt of Miguel Fuentes.
1955 Presidential Election- Brazil
US began educating” Brazilians against communism” & gave grants to parties that agreed to be pro-US
1955 Parliamentary Elections – Indonesia
CIA is accused of covertly giving $1m to Muslim political parties to cut support for Sukarno.
1953 Parliamentary Elections – Philippines
US & CIA are accused of influencing the 1953 elections with candidates competing for US support. CIA agent Edward Lansdale is credited with running the campaign of Ramon Magsaysay to election victory.
1952 Parliamentary Elections – Iran
US declassified documents in 2017 reveal US strategy to undermine Mohammad Mossadegh with CIA spending lots of money to get their 18 favorite candidates elected.
1948 Parliamentary Elections – Italy
The US in alliance with the Roman Catholic Church is accused of funneling millions of dollars to the Christian Democracy Party & other parties to support the Popular Democratic Front to win.
Its upto the Sri Lankans to ask themselves whether US is also rolling out the same campaigns in Sri Lanka?
How far has USAID, NED, NRI, IRI penetrated Sri Lankan society to influence their thinking & involved in grassroot campaigning?
Was IMF used in 2022?
Are US advisors, vehicles, equipment, social media training, media training being used?
What are the campaigns that have been launched so far? How is US influencing surveys & opinion polls?
Are their US advisors” posing as US investors/businessmen?
Who are the politicians listening to US advice” & are favorites” of the US/India
Who are the politicians, political parties, student groups, youth movements, media, intellectuals, activists, trade unions, businessmen taking advice” from US/India?
Who are tasked & paid to character assassinate? Who else are getting covertly paid?
The US didn’t need to kidnap the army general as in Chile, but a US-trained one was imported & made army commander after regime change in 2015!
In looking at the timeline of US interference in numerous countries, their judiciary has remained somewhat out of any conflict of interest. However, can we say the same about Sri Lanka? The BASL scandal, the manner USAID is funding the legal system’s administration & digitalization” provides a clue to the answer.
In such a scenario, what can we deduce from the US envoys meeting with the supposed to be independent” election commission. Do commissions wish to be independent so they can be not answerable or questioned for such actions that can easily undermine the sovereignty of the nation as can be seen by the examples highlighted from open source material.
Four Sri Lankans were arrested on Monday 20 May 2024 at the Ahmadabad Airport in India for smuggling of gold and drugs.
According to Daily Mirror of 23 May 2024 Sri Lanka’s state intelligence has asked for further information from India’s state intelligence to verify the background of these alleged suspects, as well as to probe if they are actually linked to the ISIS network.
Thus so far there was no report of their involvement in any organization promoting violence. One should not forget the government in power in India is extremely hostile to Muslims.They demonize and unleash violence against Muslims.On the other hand it is ridiculous to state that they went to India to commit crime for mere Rs 100.000/ each.
However within 24 hours Mr Rohana Gunaratne, the self claimed terrorist expert who is blind to the on going RSS-BJP atrocities on Indian Muslims and the US-European backed Israeli genocide roasting and toasting Palestinians , had given a fatwa describing Sri Lankans caught in India as ISIS agents.
This was done even before the Indian authorities started their inquiries .Perhaps Mr Gunaratne has his own information channel to Indian intelligence? The question is how could Mr Gunaraten accuse these four people, perhaps professional smugglers, of being ISIS members even before Indian authorities started their investigations?
His statement warned Sri Lanka of ISIS threat . It was published on 22 May in the Ceylon Today under the title *Message to the Sri Lankan government and Muslim leaders:* “Do not live in denial, acknowledge the truth, and address radicalization”.
Such provocative statements demonising Islam and Muslims has been Mr Gunaratne’s speciality for reasons better known to him. In his statement on 23 May 2024 this is what Mr Rohan Gnaratne stated;
I have painstakingly stressed that the scourge of the Islamic State (ISIS) has not gone away from Sri Lanka even though Zahran and his infrastructure was disrupted. The ideology that is producing Zahran’s are intact. Zahran was only the symptom of a larger problem of radicalization in the country.
Whether we like it or not, the radicalisation is a regional challenge that will grow. The extremist organizations have established a presence in Sri Lanka. Based on interviews with detainees that staged a catastrophic attack, I have shared the details of the network in my book Sri Lanka’s Easter Attack: Lessons for the International Community”. conclded Mr Rohan
Many alleged that IS is a direct product of Israel, sometimes weaponizing the acronym to call it the Israeli secret intelligence service.” An X account called Suppressed Voice,” which routinely amplifies Hamas propaganda and glorifies terrorism as a form of resistance,” posted these conspiratorial sentiments alongside the false claim that Mossad is also an IS-affiliate.
Islamic State said that Abu Bakr al–Baghdadi was actually a Jewish agent of the Mossad seeking to sow destruction and anarchy in Syria and other regions,
Isn’t it time that Mr Rohan Gunratne speak about the barbarity unleashed by Israel with the complete support of US and Europe, indiscriminately killing innocent Palestinians. This not only include children but even babies taken out of the womb of murdered women. Latest being headless children. So far they have killed more than 36,000 Palestinians although the estimated figure is around 100,000 as those buried under the rubble of bombed and destroyed buildings were not counted.
The Zionist Jews and their US European partners have caused immeasurable sufferings to Palestinians who were deprived of water, food,medicine .electricity and shelter.
Zionists were committing these barbarities to justify their- US-European-Israeli wars invading Muslim countries and killing innocent Muslims worldwide.
This began with the collapse of former Soviet Union in december 1988.So far number of Muslims countries were destroyed and millions of Muslims were slaughtered. Did any Muslim country any where in the world, invade a non Muslim country leave alone massacring their people in the way US-Europe and Israel had done and still doing?
Isn’t it time that Mr Gunaratne write about US-European Israeli war crimes in Bosnia,Afghanistan,Iraq,Syria,Libya and now in Gaza rather than demonizing Islam and Muslims and help justify US-European Israeli war mongers destroy Muslim countries and kill Muslims world wide.
Sri Lanka is passing through a very difficult period due to racist politics which divided the communities and contributed to the current economic crisis. Under the circumstance the need of the hour is for all to get together to pull the country out of this man made disaster and not divide communities.
Of the three communities in Sri Lanka Muslims were the most peaceful.They never resorted to violence to restore their rights.Even in the case of Easter Sunday massacre only few Muslim individuals were accused but the community as a whole ,even after five years, proved nothing to do with it.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that none of the candidates aspiring to run in the presidential election have announced their intention to abolish the executive powers associated with the position.
The President highlighted the dual nature of the executive presidential system, noting its advantages and disadvantages. He emphasized that the executive power vested in the presidency played a pivotal role in the economic development of Sri Lanka and the resolution of the 30-year war.
President Wickremesinghe made these remarks while participating in the What’s dialogue on legal reforms with young legal professionals at a workshop held yesterday (28) at the Presidential Secretariat.
President Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of enacting laws that render the President accountable to Parliament. He noted the decentralization of certain executive powers to Provincial Councils and Parliamentary Oversight Committees, highlighting forthcoming divisions in this regard.<
Moreover, President Wickremesinghe affirmed the inevitability of future Presidential elections, stating that financial provisions for this purpose have already been allocated.
The President further stated,
Sri Lanka boasts multiple governance systems. One resembles the English model, epitomized by the cabinet, while the other adopts the executive presidential system, where the President wields executive authority. The legislature holds legislative powers. Notably, the President and the legislature may hail from different political parties. Examining the Swiss parliamentary setup, parliament appoints seven individuals to the federal committee, granting executive authority to the Federal Council.
In adherence to a customary practice, the two primary parties receive two seats each, while the remaining parties are allocated one seat each. Subsequently, these councillors convene to discuss the distribution of responsibilities among institutions, collectively exercising executive authority. Additionally, the Prime Minister holds the authority to appoint and dismiss ministers within the cabinet. Annually, one of the seven councillors ascends to the Chairmanship.
Alternatively, the Donoughmore system, once employed in Sri Lanka, involved dividing the executive structure into seven components. Among these, one served as the speaker, while another was elected as the chairman, simultaneously assuming the role of minister. Further, a minister was designated as the Leader of the House. The governor appointed three additional secretaries, resulting in a council of ministers comprised of ten individuals. Among these, the chief secretary chaired the council, where decisions were deliberated and finalized.
Following the previous systems, the French model emerged, where the executive president is elected via popular vote and members of Parliament are chosen by the electorate. This approach is predominantly adopted in Sri Lanka, possessing both advantages and disadvantages. During President J. R. Jayawardena’s tenure as Executive President, significant strides were made for the country, marked by the implementation of major projects such as Mahaveli, Samanala wewa, and Lunugamvehera. Additionally, Kotte was elevated to the status of a capital city, and two trading zones were established. Notably, these developmental endeavours were executed amidst an eleven-year-long war.
Similarly, President Premadasa initiated the establishment of around two hundred garment factories. The presence of the executive presidency was pivotal in Sri Lanka’s victory in the war, thwarting foreign hopes of inducing crisis and government collapse. The ability to apply executive power, exemplified by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, facilitated the deployment of the military and eventual triumph in the conflict.
During the tenure of the good governance government, there was a notable disconnect between the Executive President and the rest of the government. The presence of executive powers was crucial in maintaining stability during the “Aragalaya;. This was evident when there was no clear successor for the premiership. On a particular occasion, when the President departed for Trincomalee, some individuals urged me to resign from my position as Prime Minister.
However, I asserted that I could only resign if there was a parliamentary majority, and even then, the resignation letter would need to be submitted to the President. Resigning under external pressure or due to personal reasons, such as threats to my residence, would risk the ascension of someone outside the democratic process to power.
In the future, we will hold the presidential election. None of the candidates vying for the position have announced plans to abolish its executive authority. It’s imperative that we develop a program geared towards reinforcing the parliament’s role and capabilities.
Currently, some executive powers have been delegated to the Provincial Council, while others have been assigned to various commissions. Furthermore, parliamentary oversight committees are operational. As more bills are introduced and debated in parliament, there will be a gradual shift of presidential powers to the Parliament, the legislative body.
Enacting laws that render the President accountable to Parliament is imperative. The government’s agenda for the next four years should be outlined through the newly introduced Economic Transformation Act. Progress on implemented programs each year ought to be reported to Parliament annually. Mr. Karu Jayasuriya’s proposed Jana Sabha system appears highly feasible. Additionally, it’s worth noting the practicality of the forthcoming gender equality law.
The queries posed here and the responses provided by President Ranil Wickremesinghe are delineated below.
Q:In your experience, what factors contribute to the failure of national action plans?
A:The core issue lies in the absence of comprehensive policies among many governments. This deficiency has persisted for seventy-seven years. Until 2015, the prevalence of war overshadowed policymaking efforts, resulting in the lack of adequate preparation. Consequently, our economic structure remained stagnant, leading to significant challenges in recent years.
The impact of the war on the economy was profound. Economic collapse ensued in 2001, followed by the devastating tsunami. Despite the war’s end, there was a conspicuous absence of post-war strategies.
Upon assuming office as Prime Minister in 2015, I prioritized rectifying this situation. Efforts were made to achieve budgetary surplus and limit dependence on imports. However, our economy remains reliant on imports.
There was a notable absence of agricultural policies in place. Despite our historical success in exporting commodities like cinnamon, tea, rubber, and coconut since the Anuradhapura era, there was a failure to formulate a comprehensive agricultural policy post-1948. Although initiatives like the Mahaweli and Gal-oya land development projects were launched, a cohesive agricultural strategy was lacking. As a result, it’s clear that modernizing agriculture and fostering an export-oriented economy are imperative for our nation’s development.
Until 1977, our focus was on attracting investments and establishing free trade zones. However, after that period, our interest in these endeavours waned. Consequently, countries that were once behind us surged ahead. Thailand, which was once on par with us, progressed significantly. Similarly, nations like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh surpassed us. Hence, it’s imperative that our political attention shifts towards policy studies to rectify this.
Additionally, reforms are essential in the education sector to provide our youth with opportunities to attain degrees locally, reducing their reliance on expensive foreign education.
Furthermore, it’s crucial that we embrace modern technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to propel us forward. Drawing from my extensive 75 years of life experience, I emphasize the importance of this to the younger generation, who belong to Generation Z. It’s imperative that you excel in this rapidly evolving landscape and consider your future prospects. Our goal must be to construct a developed nation capable of competing on a global scale.
Q:I truly admire your focus on climate change and your compassion towards animals. I would like to know your opinion on the proposed animal welfare bill and if you can expect it to be passed or enacted anytime soon.
A:The discussion on the Animal Welfare Act is currently underway in the Oversight Committee. However, it’s uncertain whether it will be adopted in this session due to the numerous bills slated for passage by August. Consequently, its consideration may be deferred to next year. We have prioritized the enactment of several new laws aimed at safeguarding women, followed by amendments to the Penal Code and the introduction of the Economic Transformation Act.
Additionally, the introduction of the Proceeds of Crime Act is likely. The Anti-Corruption Act has already been passed, along with the presentation of the Proceeds of the Crime Bill. The remaining legislative agenda is expected to be addressed after the presidential election, indicating a heightened workload for the legislature.
Meanwhile, the Agriculture Oversight Committee is examining the Animal Welfare Act, primarily due to concerns regarding crop destruction by peacocks, wild boars and deer. Consequently, efforts are directed towards finding a balanced approach to address this issue.
The event was attended by Member of Parliament Premanath .C. Dolawatta PC, former Parliamentary Secretary General Dr. Priyani Wijesinghe, Presidential Director of Youth Affairs and Sustainable Development Mr. Randula Abeyweera and others.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe during a workshop at the Presidential Secretariat said that none of the presidential candidates have expressed intentions to abolish the executive powers associated with the position. He elaborated on the dual nature of the executive presidential system, highlighting both its advantages and disadvantages. The President emphasized the crucial role played by executive powers in Sri Lanka’s economic development and the resolution of the 30-year war.
Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of enacting legislation that renders the President accountable to Parliament. He discussed the decentralization of certain executive powers to Provincial Councils and Parliamentary Oversight Committees, signaling forthcoming divisions in this regard. Additionally, he affirmed the inevitability of future Presidential elections, noting that financial provisions for this purpose have already been allocated.
During the dialogue, the President addressed inquiries regarding the factors contributing to the failure of national action plans. He attributed this failure to the absence of comprehensive policies among successive governments, spanning seventy-seven years. President Wickremesinghe highlighted the impact of the war on the economy and the lack of post-war strategies. Despite efforts to rectify the situation after assuming office in 2015, challenges persist, particularly in modernizing agriculture, fostering an export-oriented economy, and embracing technological advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Drawing from his extensive life experience, President Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of the younger generation excelling in this rapidly evolving landscape to construct a developed nation capable of competing globally.
Radical Islam is an enduring global challenge that presents a national and international security threat. Instigation by hate preachers, inadequate government, societal attention, and religious and reciprocal radicalization have allowed this threat to manifest into terrorist violence. Extremist ideologies have infiltrated religious, educational, and digital spaces, and thus, terrorism’s shadow continues to shroud the safety and stability of countries and communities worldwide today.
On 21 April 2019, the world’s most dangerous threat movement, the Islamic State, mounted one of its deadliest attacks in Sri Lanka. The surge of fear, suspicion, and prejudice following what is now known as ‘Sri Lanka’s Easter Sunday Massacre’ fragmented the country, imbuing hatred and anger against the Muslim community. Years later, the radicalization pipeline remains intact, and the threat persists. With the global expansion of the Islamic State and al-Qaeda, will the world witness attacks of a similar or greater scale in the future?
Equal parts treatise and reference material, Sri Lanka’s Easter Sunday Massacre: Lessons for the International Community answers this question by tracing the genesis, threat trajectory, and aftermath of the bombings and the personalities behind them. With unprecedented access to accounts from Islamic State detainees, affected families, intelligence specialists, and investigators, the book reflects on lessons learned and provides insight into how such attacks are organized and what measures can be taken to prevent or respond to these threats effectively.
Kurundi is the first ancient Buddhist temple to be conserved in Mullaitivu. Mullaitivu is the one district that links the Northern Province to the Eastern Province. The bogus Tamil ethnic group declared that the north-east of Sri Lanka is their Eelam. Buddhist worship in Mullaitivu will hamper the rise of this Eelam. Therefore Tamil Separatist Movement intends to prevent Kurundi vihara from blossoming forth and functioning as a well patronized temple.
Kurundi needs a strong lobby to resist this. Fortunately, an informal Buddhist lobby has emerged around Kurundi. This is led by Bauddhaloka Foundation. The Department of Archaeology told Ven. Santhabodhi that they would do the work if he could find the money. The Bauddhaloka Foundation offered to put up the money.
Jagath Sumathipala, founder of Bauddhaloka Foundation signed an agreement with the Department of Archaeology to fund the excavation and conservation of Kurundi stupa. Funds were readily provided as and when needed and the stupa was completed. We are told that the funds for doing the pilimage are ready and waiting at Bauddhaloka Foundation.
Kurundi also has financial support from abroad, from Sri Lankan Buddhists in Dubai and from SPUR in Australia and others. Groups and individuals have also helped with other matters, like monk’s living quarters and the supply of dry goods. Santhabodhi was given a vehicle for his use. But financial support alone is not sufficient, Kurundi needs a strong political lobby.
Since the Kurundi project was initiated by a courageous young bhikkhu working alone, the first support should be from the Maha Sangha. The Sangha has shown interest in the work at Kurundi. At one talk show, which was endlessly going round and round the topic of Kurundi, bhikkhus cut in, tell us about the court decisions in the Kurundi matter, they said. What are the obstacles we are facing in north east?
Leading bhikkhus from the three Nikayas have supported Santhabodhi, but they have done so separately. Bhikkhus have appeared in court with Santhabodhi to give him moral support. They have visited the stupa and conducted pinkama. But they have done all this individually. This is not sufficient. They must appear in a body, en masse.
The first lay Buddhist association to support Santhabodhi was the All Ceylon Buddhist Association (ACBC). The ACBC was cautious. They first interviewed Ven. Santabodhi, were satisfied with what he said, and only then decided to support him. They provided quiet support for Kurundi. They sent a lawyer, Samith Kalhara to fight the Kurundi case in Magistrate Court, Mullaitivu on behalf of Kurundi.
Federation of Organisations for Protecting National Heritage led by Ven. Medagoda Abeyatissa announced on 29. Oct 2022, that it will file legal action in Supreme Court, against the Minister of Cultural Affairs and National Heritage, Vidura Wickramanayake and the Director General of Archaeology for violation of laws pertaining to preservation of historical sites.
The Federation will file action for violating the Archaeological Sites of National Importance Act 16 of 1990 with regard to historical Kurundi Temple. No one is allowed to carry out construction at sites which have been identified as archaeologically important as per the Act. A Hindu temple is being constructed at the site currently in violation of the law, Medagoda said.
Former Army Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Jagath Dias and two other retired officers, Brigadier Athula Hemachandra de Silva and Lt. Col. Anil Sumeda Amarasekera petitioned the Court of Appeal on July 19 2023 , against the government’s decision to release state land around the historical Kurundi temple.
They said that the DG, Archaeology tendered his resignation after being humiliated by President Wickremesinghe in the presence of a delegation of TNA MPs at a meeting held in the Presidential Secretariat on June 08, 2023.Subsequent to that meeting, a directive has been issued to alienate land, surrounding the Kurundi temple, to cultivators, who were cultivating the surrounding lands, and to remove the existing boundary stones placed by the Task Force for Archaeological Heritage Management in the Eastern Province and to replace the stones after the identifying the archaeological sites.
The petitioners have sought to prevent the government from removing the boundary stones already planted by the Presidential Task Force for Archaeological Heritage Management in the Eastern Province.
Declaring that over 300 acres has been now identified to be of archaeological value that needs excavation and gazetting under the provisions of the Antiquities Ordinance No. 09 of 1940, the petitioners alleged that a survey of the area was stopped by the second respondent Buddha asana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister Vidura Wickramanayake last September Subsequently the then Director General of Archaeology, Prof. Anura Manatunga who is the third respondent, resumed the survey and was proceeding according to a plan when President Ranil Wickremesinghe intervened.
The petitioners have submitted a letter, dated January 11, 2023, sent by the Secretary to the President to the Director General of the Archaeological Department, directing that he obtain the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers before declaring any site to be an archaeological site or monument. The petitioners pointed out that the power to declare an archaeological site and/or monument is a power granted to the DG, Archaeology under section 33 of the Antiquities Ordinance No. 09 of 1940. Therefore, the directive issued by the Secretary to the President is an unlawful encroachment of the powers conferred by an Act of Parliament to the Director General of Archaeology.
Thereafter media reported that the writ petition ( No 367/23) submitted to the Court of Appeal challenging the order given by the President on June 08 to remove the boundary stones of the archaeological sites identified by the Presidential Task Force for the Management of Archaeological Heritage in the Kurundi Temple Archeological Site and in the Eastern Province, was scheduled to be heard on July 20 2023.
Somaratne Vidanapathirana Buddha Sasana, Secretary of the Ministry of Religion and Culture, Vidura Wickramanayake Minister of Buddha Sasana ,Religious and Cultural Affairs, Anura Manatunga former Director General of Archeology, Pradeepa Serasinghe current Acting Director General of Archeology, Land Commissioner General, and Attorney General have been named as respondents. President’s Counsel Manohara de Silva is representing the petitioner. ( Continued)
Tamil objections to Buddhist temples in the north-east are not confined to Kurundi. Tamil Separatist Movement is attacking all the Buddhist temples in key locations in the northeast. Therefore a strong Buddhist lobby is urgently needed, to fight on behalf of the Buddhist temples which are under threat all over the north and east.
There should be two lobbies for the Buddhistization” of the north and east, one by the Maha Sangha and the other by the lay Buddhists. These two lobbies must deal firmly and strongly with the many anti-Buddhist activities in the north and east. They are a) objecting to conservaton of ancient Buddhist temples in north and east, b) opposition to building of new Buddhist temples in the north and east, c) opposition to the presence of the Sangha in those temples, d), vandalizing Buddhist statues and Buddhist ruins and d) building kovils on the sites of ancient Buddhist temples.
There is evidence of an informal lobby. Surveyor General Ariyaratne Dissanayake told Daily News in February 2022 that a total of 484 requests have been received for surveying of archeological sites in the Eastern Province. Surveying of 64 of them have been completed and plans are being prepared for 22 sites. Derana news of19.2.22 announced that requests for measuring religious places in north have been received and 48 are being looked into.
There is also silent resistance. Kurundi team informed us that Forest officers were working very eagerly and with much dedication to stop the illegal occupation of Nagacholai forest reserve.
The Department of Archaeology had two encounters with President Ranil Wickremesinghe. The first was in Colombo with the Director of Archaeology. The second was at Anuradhapura where President met the Archaeology Department officials based in Anuradhapura.
Derana news of 23.7.23 showed a clip of the second meeting. President Ranil Wickremesinghe clearly wanted archaeological attention transferred to Mahavihara in Anuradhapura. The most important archaeology project should now be Mahavihara, he said. He compared Mahavihara to Taxila and Nalanda and added that we did not know our past.
Archaeology Department officials were asked, has the Department done any excavation on Mahavihara. What have you found. Officers stated firmly and unapologetically that they have only marked out the ruins visible above ground. President wanted to know how many archaeology officers were at work in Anuradhapura and how many have been assigned to Mahavihara . Answer after checking was 4 officers and 18 workers.
The attitude of the Archaeology Department officers at this meeting was visibly different to the trusting attitude shown by D/Archaeology, Manatunga at the historic Colombo meeting with TNA watching. The Anuradhapura officers were confident and firm and answered only after openly checking facts on their laptops. They knew that this sudden emphasis on Mahavihara was an artificial one. Jetavana and Abhayagiri were already done. Jetavana was part of Mahavihara.
The Buddhist lobby does not confine itself to silent resistance alone. Whenever they belatedly realize what is taking place, they try to stop it. The first thing they do is ‘go to court’, they institute legal proceedings.
.A Fundamental Rights petition has been filed in the Supreme Court, in May 2023, seeking an order directing the authorities to take immediate action to secure and protect the Vadunagala Pabbatha Viharaya Archaeological site in Vavuniya District. The petitioners Ven. Galgamuwe Santhabodhi Brig. (Rtd) Athula De Silva, journalist Shenali D. Waduge, businesswoman Jihan Hameed, Nilhan Paul Fernando and Upali Jayasinghe Bandara filed this petition through their lawyer Dharshana Weraduwage.
Vaddamana Parvatha (Pabbatha) Viharaya Vedikinnarimalai Archaeological site is located in the Nainayamadu Forest in the district of Vavuniya. The petitioners stated that Vaddamana Pabbatha Viharaya, a Buddhist monastic complex, dates back to the early Anuradhapura era. According to the inscriptions these caves were gifted (Saangika) to the Maha Sangha.
The petitioners stated that this ancient Buddhist monastery has a long history. In 2010 this place was rediscovered and re-identified by the Department of Archaeology and was suggested to be gazetted as an archaeological protected monument. The petitioners alleged that in 2018, acts of vandalism occurred in this place, where the floor of one of the caves with Brahmi inscriptions was filled with soil brought from outside and levelled. The bricks from the brick stupa were removed and an image of a God has been inserted.
The Petitioners further stated that the actions or inactions of the respondents, including IGP Chandana Wickramaratne, Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles, Senior DIG Vijitha Gunaratne, DIG Ampawila, SSP Chamika Wickremasinghe and others are wilful, negligent and unreasonable and have vehemently violated the fundamental rights of the Buddhist Citizenry duly guaranteed under Article 10, Article 12.1 and Article 14 (1) (e) of Sri Lanka’s Constitution. The petitioners alleged that in 2018, acts of vandalism occurred in this place, where the floor of one of the caves with Brahmi inscriptions was filled with soil brought from outside and leveled.[1]
At present Buddhists have nowhere to direct their observations and grievances to. They have collected a bunch of observations and do not know what to do with them. They need direction. There must be a formal Buddhist lobby with an address , an office and somebody to write down the facts.
The Sangha has provided two such places, at Pepiliyana and Kelaniya. They have the capacity to provide more centers if they wish. Among the many lay Buddhist organizations, obviously, it is the All Ceylon Buddhist Association which should come forward to lead the Buddhist lobby.
ACBC is not new to this. It is already supporting Kurundi. Well before that ACBC made a complaint when a branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi was cut down in 1970 under the pretext of providing telephone lines to the residence of Mr. Thangadorai, Federal party MP for Muttur.
ACBC is aware of the new role they have to play. They have adjusted their image accordingly. ACBC announced in May 2024 that views put forward by the ACBC have been discussed and developed in international discussions at various times in the world.
ACBC has seen the need for high visibility .The 2024 Vesak programme of the ACBC was officially released at Temple Trees under the patronage of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Members of the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress and a group of donors participated in this event and posed for a photograph.
Chandra Nimal Wakishta, the President of the Buddhist Congress, said it was a privilege to officially announce our Vesak festival programme for the first time in the presence of the country’s leadership. Bauddhaloka Vesak Zone, organized by the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress under the theme Protect Our Identity”, will have the fullest support of the three armed forces, police and Civil Security Force, added ACBC.
There is also a new organization which is going to act as a lobby. An Act to Incorporate the Sri Shakyasinghe Foundation for perpetuating of Sri Sambuddha Sasana was announced in May 2024, by Udaya Gammanpila. Its objectives include propagation of Buddhism, development of Buddhist education, protection of Buddhist heritage, prevent religious conflicts and create a society based on Buddhist philosophy. Critics observed that the name of the association does not carry the word Buddhist. The title did not sound like a Buddhist organization either.
Lawyers for Buddhist Rights” will be providing an app which provides a streamlined platform for reporting anti Buddhist incidents. This is announced in a You Tube presentation, posted on April 1st, 2024 titled, Empowering Buddhists: New App Aims to Safeguard Rights in Sri Lanka”. Using these app users can swiftly document and report violations. May this app serve as a powerful tool in protecting Buddhist rights and promoting understanding , said Palitha Ariyaratne
ශ්රී ලංකාවේ වෙස්මිනිස්ටර් ප්රජාතන්ත්රවාදයේ අවසානය සනිටුහන් කරමින් රටේ සමස්ත ආර්ථිකය අත්තනෝමතික ලෙස ඒකාධිපතිකරණය කිරීම සඳහා මේ වන විට පාර්ලිමේන්තුවට පනත් ත්රිත්වයක් ඉදිරිපත් කර ඇති බව දේශහිතෛෂී ජාතික ව්යාපාරය පෙන්වා දෙයි.
