January 27, Colombo (LNW): Colombo University Chancellor and Public Service United Nurses’ Association President, Venerable Murutthettuwe Ananda Thera, expressed strong support from the Maha Sangha for President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s efforts in promoting the Sambuddha Sasana order and the welfare of the country. Speaking during a ceremony at the Narahenpita Sri Abhayarama Purana Viharaya to mark his birth on the 26th, Venerable Ananda Thera urged the President to formulate a program aimed at safeguarding the five virtues policy within the nation.
Highlighting concerns about certain actions of the Maha Sangha causing distress among true Buddhists, Venerable Murutthettuwe Ananda Thera called for urgent amendments to the Sasana, with due consideration to the Maha Sangha’s insights. He emphasized the need for a Sasana Shodhana (cleansing of the Buddha Sasana) through a Sangayana to address the emerging challenges.
Addressing the President directly, Venerable Ananda Thera expressed concerns about events conflicting with Buddhist principles, both in media and through some religious figures. He raised the alarm about individuals hastily claiming Buddha and Rahat status, posing a significant threat to the Buddhist order. As the Chief Sangha Nayaka, he earnestly implored the President to intervene and resolve the crisis within the Sambuddha Sasana.
Acknowledging Abhayarama’s association with politicians, Venerable Ananda Thera singled out President Wickremesinghe as the primary supporter of the temple, embodying true Buddhist values. He stressed that no other politician has contributed to the temple in the same way.
In addressing the President’s role as the de facto leader of the nation, Venerable Ananda Thera expressed confidence in President Wickremesinghe’s ability to take reflective action, known for aligning deeds with words. He urged prompt consideration of the Maha Sangha’s insights and a revision of the constitution to address the distress among true Buddhists.
The Thera further emphasized the Maha Sangha’s role in fostering national improvement, seeking the President’s assistance in creating an enlightened discourse to counter divergent opinions affecting public perception.
Closing his address, Venerable Ananda Thera affirmed the Maha Sangha’s support for the President’s efforts in maintaining order and protecting the people. He urged the President to devise a comprehensive program to uphold the Pancha Sheela policy. Additionally, he commended President Wickremesinghe for his role in awarding diplomas to nursing officers and his contributions to the progress of the university, despite past challenges.
The event witnessed the presence of members of the Mahasangha, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Industry and Health Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, MP Wajira Abeywardena, and other dignitaries.
