Former Derana Channel journalist Dilka Samanmali, currently residing in Sydney, Australia, has expressed criticism of President Anura Dissanayake for making what she described as “gallery-pleasing” statements during a public meeting in Aluthgama. Samanmali emphasized that as the President of the country, his rhetoric should reflect the dignity of his office, regardless of his origins.
In a post shared on her social media account, Samanmali stated:
“Mr. President, if you have been elected with the consent of the majority, your role is to act as the President of the entire nation. Ensuring the security of the former President, even with just two or three bodyguards, is a reasonable expectation. However, resorting to cheap talk that only seeks to please the gallery is unbecoming of a leader. No matter where you come from—whether Tutthukudi or Thambuttegama—you are the President of the country, and your conduct should reflect that.”
Her remarks come in response to President Dissanayake’s recent comments in Aluthgama, where he addressed issues related to governance and public concerns. Samanmali’s critique highlights a broader expectation for the President to maintain a statesmanlike approach in public discourse.
