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NMSJ urges responsible leadership ahead of presidential election
Every citizen has a right to choose a President for the next five years without interference, Karu Jayasuriya, Chairman of the National Movement for Social Justice (NMSJ), has said.
Political party leaders bear a responsibility greater than that of the Presidential candidates themselves to safeguard this right, he has said.
“Their primary duty is to respect the choice of the people. Upholding this decision is not just a matter of abiding by the country’s laws and the principles of social justice, but also about adhering to basic moral and civilised standards,” he has said.
Excerpts of the media statement issued by NMSJ:
“We bring attention to this issue due to the commitment displayed by Sri Lankan society in recent years to establish a peaceful and violence-free election culture. This effort must continue. Failing in this regard risks placing Sri Lanka in a situation similar to Bangladesh. It is imperative to remember the tragic consequences witnessed in certain African nations where postelection violence has devastated communities, and we must take every step to avoid such a fate.
“In addition, we remind everyone that the President elected on 21st September will bear significant responsibilities for the country. One of the key tasks will be ensuring that Parliamentary, Provincial Council (PC), and Local Government (LG) elections are conducted in a proper manner, allowing citizens to fully engage in the democratic process. Furthermore, it is essential to reform the current electoral system by abolishing the Executive Presidency, which centralises excessive power in a single individual.
A Special Presidential Commission, chaired by former Chief Justice (CJ) and President’s Counsel Priyasath Dep, has already made several important recommendations for electoral reform. These proposals should be made publicly available as soon as possible. We believe presenting them as a white paper, incorporating inputs from civil society organisations, academic forums, and others, will ignite a valuable public debate.
“We must also acknowledge the efforts of the Election Commission (EC), security forces, and other government officials, who have worked tirelessly to ensure a free and fair election. Thanks to the EC’s vigilance, all election-related activities have been conducted peacefully and within the law. We extend our gratitude to them and to other institutions for their hard work. After 22nd September, Sri Lanka’s future will rest on the continued goodwill of the authorities and the law-abiding conduct of its citizens. We expect all parties in the country to fulfil their national duties with integrity.”
Police urge motorists who intend to use the Ella – Wellawaya Road to use alternative roads as there is a severe vehicle congestion due to inclement weather condition.
The oil anointing ceremony for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year was held on April 16 at the historic Rajamaha Viharaya in Kolonnawa, with the participation of Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.
Following the chanting of pirith, the oil anointing ritual was carried out at the auspicious time of 9:04 a.m., by the Chief Incumbent of the temple, Venerable Kolonnawa Dhammika Thero.
Speaking after the ceremony the Prime Minister said that:
“The Sinhala and Tamil New Year is one of the most important festivities in our country. It is a celebration with our families, reflecting our traditions and customs while strengthening the ties.
This festival leads the path for renewing unity, love, and bonds stronger. These values enrich a country. Development of a country is not limited by one-dimensional; a true development includes spirituality, relationships, and connections. The reason why we uphold these customs in such ceremonies is to remind ourselves of the significance and to pass on their value to future generations.
Therefore, today marks a significant day. Throughout this week, we came together and engaged in various activities. Followed by, the next event will mark the leaving for employment at the auspicious time and we should start working collectively to rebuild the country.
I wish everyone a New Year that is prosperous, peaceful, joyful, full of strengthened relationships, and most importantly, safe for all.”
The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Maha Sangha, and attended by the Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Eranga Gunasekara, Divisional Secretary to Kolonnawa Priyanath Perera, Municipal Secretary Nelum Kumari Gamage, and the residents of the area.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
Latest News
Heat Index at ‘Caution Level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts today [16]
Warm Weather Advisory Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department of Meteorology for 16 April 2025
The Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the table below and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated. Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note:
In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
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