President AKD Calls for Collective Struggle for Freedom

COLOMBO (News 1st); President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized the collective struggle for comprehensive economic, social, and cultural freedom during the 77th Independence Day celebrations held at Independence Square in Colombo.

In his address, President Dissanayake stated, "In our quest to attain comprehensive economic, social, and cultural freedom, each and every Sri Lankan is a warrior on the same battlefield." He highlighted the importance of unity and forward-thinking as the nation moves towards a prosperous future.

The theme for this year's celebration was "Let's Unite for National Revival." The event commenced with the arrival of President Dissanayake, who hoisted the national flag while school students sang the national anthem.

This was followed by the chanting of the Jayamangala Gatha and the Devo Vassatu Kalena Gatha, invoking blessings for the nation.

A poignant moment of the ceremony was the two-minute silence observed in memory of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. The President was then accorded a salute by the tri-forces.

"Today, as the democratically elected President of this state, I stand before our proud national flag in Independence Square, not only as your leader but as a brother who has borne the historical burden emblematic of our future freedom. I am confident that you stand with me in this moment, sharing in the weight of this burden,"said the President

"Together, we must embark upon a journey towards economic liberation and socio-cultural emancipation, in short, towards the freedom essential for us to live with pride as contemporary citizens of this nation. + We must purify our society by eradicating prejudices and reaffirm that human dignity, love, and compassion, the hallmarks of the modern era, form the bedrock of all human relationships. ++
Therefore, we must recognize that in our quest to attain comprehensive economic, social, and cultural freedom, each of us is a warrior on the same battlefield. Collectively, we must persist in our struggle for freedom on behalf of this motherland," he added.

In his speech, President Dissanayake reflected on the significance of Independence Day, not just as a historical milestone but as a vision for the future. He called for a journey towards economic liberation and socio-cultural emancipation, urging the nation to eradicate prejudices and reaffirm human dignity, love, and compassion.