'Sri Lanka Will Not Fall Again': President Declares Zero Tolerance for Extremism

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake declared that Sri Lanka will not be allowed to once again become a victim of any ethnic or religious extremist group, delivering a strong message of unity at the 17th National War Heroes Commemoration Ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the National War Heroes Memorial with the participation of the tri-forces commanders, the Inspector General of Police, heads and members of the Civil Defence Force, as well as families of war heroes.

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.

In his address, President Dissanayake reaffirmed that the sacrifices made by war heroes would never be betrayed, stating that the nation continues to benefit from their commitment and dedication.

He paid tribute to those who gave their lives and those who sustained injuries, noting that their sacrifices were made in the hope of building a peaceful, developed, and just nation.

The President also emphasised that Sri Lanka is at a critical turning point, with a choice between division and progress. He urged the country to pursue unity, development, and prosperity while rejecting paths that foster conflict, hatred, and division.

Reiterating his commitment to national stability, President Dissanayake stated that efforts would be made to ensure that war would never recur in Sri Lanka.

He further stressed the importance of equality before the law and warned that the country must overcome racism, religious extremism, and divisive forces.

The President reaffirmed that Sri Lanka must remain united and committed to building a future where all citizens are treated equally and no space is given for extremism to take root again.