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NPC: Mangala upheld right to dissent and to be different
The untimely demise of Mangala Samaraweera is a grievous cause for sorrow to those who knew him and a great loss to those who shared his belief in a country in which there are equal rights to all, the National Peace Council said.
The following is the full text of the NOC statement: “The late Minister passionately believed in a Sri Lanka that was united and belonged to all in equal measure irrespective of ethnicity, religion, caste or gender.
We at the National Peace Council remember Minister Mangala Samaraweera for championing a political solution to the ethnic conflict like we do. He believed in obtaining the people’s support for the peace process and sought to share his vision with them and on a large scale through the Sudu Nelum (white Lotus) movement that he led.
In these trying times we especially remember the late Minister for upholding the right to be different and to dissent. Ultimately, it is the ability to tolerate and accept dissent, and safeguard the space for it, which marks a democratic society and leadership. It is through difference and dissent that all aspects of the truth may emerge to provide for a better solution to be found.
During his political career, Mangala changed political parties but stood true to the same set of values and principles in each one of them. He worked with all major leaders across the Sri Lankan political spectrum throughout his 30 year political career making his own contributions to the many positive and significant changes that took place under his watch. He also maintained lasting relationships with a wide range of decision makers in the international community who recognised his values and what he stood for.
A meeting between UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche and Chief of Staff to the President Prabath Chandrakeerthi was held on Monday (07) morning at the Presidential Secretariat.
Particular attention was given to the Government’s programme to resettle people who lost their homes due to Cyclone Ditwah.
The Government’s programme to address potential disasters that may arise in the future amid El Nino conditions was also discussed. The Chief of Staff to the President briefed the UN Resident Coordinator on the Government’s preparedness and plans to address such challenges.
Mr Franche stated that the United Nations was prepared to provide the necessary assistance to the Government to support the successful implementation of these programmes.
Partnerships and Development Finance Specialist at the United Nations Azam Bakeer Markar and UN Sri Lanka Humanitarian and Resilience Officer Wagisha Perera also participated in the discussion.
[President’s Media Division]
[ Cricbuzz]
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Udaygiri arrived at the Port of Colombo on an official visit today, 8 September 2026, where it was received by the Sri Lanka Navy in accordance with time-
honoured naval traditions.
INS Udaygiri is a 149.02m long Frigate, Commanded by Captain Vikas Sood. Meanwhile, the Commanding Officer of the visiting ship is scheduled to call on Commander Western Naval
Area, Rear Admiral Harsha De Silva at the Western Naval Command Headquarters.
Captain Sood served as the Defence Adviser at the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka from July 2020 to October 2023.
During their stay in the island, the crew of INS Udaygiri will participate in several goodwill events organized by the Sri Lanka Navy to enhance camaraderie between the two forces.
The visiting personnel are also scheduled to visit prominent tourist and cultural locations across the island.
Additionally, Sri Lanka Navy personnel are expected to visit the ship for capability observation and knowledge sharing, and will conduct onboard training during its stay.
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