President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the 17th National War Heroes’ Commemoration Ceremony in Battaramulla on Monday, declaring that the aspirations of those who fought to liberate the country included the creation of a developed and just nation — and that the government is committed to fulfilling that vision.
“War heroes will always remain in our hearts,” the President said, adding that the armed forces made a significant contribution in bringing relief to millions of citizens and that their sacrifices must be honoured not only through remembrance but by building a progressive country.
President Dissanayake acknowledged that many families continue to feel the loss of children, spouses and parents who died in the conflict. He said Sri Lanka must ensure such suffering is never repeated and that lasting peace is preserved. He also praised the armed forces’ role in disaster response and national emergencies as “exceptional,” The Island reported, adding that the government was working to strengthen the country’s international standing while ensuring the rule of law and judicial independence.
Addressing ethnic unity, the President said Sri Lanka belongs to all communities and rejected any division along ethnic lines, noting that the war was fought against separatism rather than against any particular community. His government’s focus, he said, is to prevent the recurrence of conflict and to build a democratic society where equality before the law is guaranteed and all citizens have equal opportunity regardless of status.
The President warned the country was at a turning point between “division and progress” and declared zero tolerance for any ethnic or religious extremist group attempting to take root again, NewsFirst reported. Sri Lanka, “for centuries guided by Buddhism, rooted in boundless loving-kindness, non-violence and compassion towards all living beings,” would not follow the “destructive and tribalistic path that sows hatred and anger” but would proceed “fearlessly” along a path of unity and prosperity, he said. “We will ensure another war never happens again,” Newswire quoted him as adding.
The ceremony was attended only by the President, Deputy Minister of Defence Aruna Jayasekara, Deputy Minister of Public Security Sunil Watagala and the tri-forces commanders. Among those in attendance were former Army Commander Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, former Navy Commander Admiral of the Fleet Wasantha Karannagoda and former Air Force Commander Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Goonetileke, NewsFirst said. No political figures outside the government were invited, Media Minister Vijitha Herath confirmed at the post-Cabinet briefing, responding to questions about why former President Mahinda Rajapaksa had not received an invitation. The ceremony was organised by the Ranaviru Seva Authority, which this year expanded participation for war hero families.
Sources: Ada Derana, Newswire — Vijitha Herath, NewsFirst — Zero tolerance for extremism, Newswire — Another war never again, The Island.
