February 23, Colombo (LNW): SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa has spoken out after planned appearances at the Oxford Union and the Cambridge Union were withdrawn amid objections from sections of the Tamil student community and activist groups.
In a statement posted on his social media platforms, the Sri Lankan parliamentarian said he was disheartened that the engagements had been called off, arguing that the long-standing traditions of both debating societies were rooted in free expression and the robust exchange of ideas.
He remarked that the two historic institutions had, for generations, served as arenas where public figures are expected to defend their positions before critical audiences and engage with challenging questions. It was this culture of open scrutiny, he said, that had prompted him to accept the invitations without hesitation.
Rajapaksa suggested that organised pressure had ultimately made it difficult for the events to proceed, adding that universities should remain spaces where disagreements are confronted through reasoned discussion rather than through efforts to shut down dialogue. In his view, preventing debate risks deepening divisions rather than resolving them.
He further stated that he would have welcomed the opportunity to address critics directly, including those who fundamentally disagree with his political stance, maintaining that genuine reconciliation can only be achieved through conversation. Avoiding engagement, he argued, does little to strengthen democratic values.
Despite the cancellations, Rajapaksa expressed appreciation to both Unions for extending invitations and acknowledged the challenging circumstances they faced. He voiced hope that a future opportunity might arise to participate in a forum where differing perspectives can be aired openly and respectfully.