Spirituality Key To Nation’s Future, Says President

COLOMBO (News 1st) - President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says that while economic progress is important, the spiritual development of the people is equally vital for the country.

He made these remarks while attending the centenary celebration of the Poson Perahera at the historic Athkanda Raja Maha Viharaya in Kurunegala.

The event was graced by the Chief Prelate of the Solosmasthana in Polonnaruwa, Venerable Vedaruwe Dharma Keerthi Sri Rathanapala Thero, and the Anunayake of the Asgiri Chapter, Venerable Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thero, along with several other monks.

Addressing the gathering, the President said:

"If the head of the country’s law enforcement is hiding from the police, if the head of the prison department ends up inside prison, if the passport office issues passports to underworld figures, and if salt is added to the medicine given to patients—then what has happened to the Dhamma we’ve been hearing for over 2300 years? Everything has been reduced to insignificance, and the institutions responsible have collapsed."

He further stated, "We expect our foreign reserves to reach 7.3 billion dollars by the end of this year. Work has resumed on the highway project that was previously stalled. But regardless of what we build, physical development is meaningless in a morally bankrupt society."

The President also pointed out that there is no electricity on the Peliyagoda Expressway and power cables are being stolen, questioning the current state of society. He emphasized the need to build a better society as the true challenge facing the nation.

"We, as political leaders, interfere even with efforts made in good faith. We wait for institutions to be accused before acting. This system must be cleaned up. How can a country move forward when its institutions are rotten? Society needs a new moral foundation—one that will help us let go of destructive old ways," he added.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Poson Perahera at the Athkanda Raja Maha Viharaya. To mark the occasion, a commemorative stamp was issued, two special songs were launched, and a scholarly publication was presented.

Students and teachers from the Dhamma school of Athkanda Raja Maha Viharaya also participated in the event. The President awarded prizes to children who excelled in various competitions, including literature and art.