February 04, Colombo (LNW): On the occasion of Sri Lanka’s 77th Independence Day, Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, emphasised the nation’s duty to preserve and strengthen the democracy it inherited at the time of independence.
In his message, Premadasa urged Sri Lankans to reflect on their shared history and recognise the current moment as a critical point in the nation’s democratic evolution.
Premadasa called on the people of Sri Lanka to make a resolute commitment towards fostering a more unified and inclusive future.
Full Statement:
“On the occasion of the 77th National Independence Day, I attended the Independence Day celebrations and religious observances held this morning at the Sri Dharmakeerthyarama Maha Vihara in Kollupitiya. After our country gained independence on February 4, 1948, then-Prime Minister D.S. Senanayake visited this temple and planted a mango sapling under the blessings of the Chief Incumbent at the time, Ven. Hanchapola Wimalawansa Anunayake Thero. To commemorate this historic event, an annual Independence Day celebration is held at the temple, including a floral tribute to the statue of D.S. Senanayake on the temple grounds. This year’s event saw the participation of a large gathering, including politicians and members of the public.
Strengthening the democracy we inherited with independence is our responsibility at this moment.
To achieve this, let us resolve on this Independence Day to understand the present clearly, rise above divisive, caste-based, and religiously narrow thinking, and stand united.“
