Galle – May 30, 2025 — The Ministry of Defense has firmly denied reports that Defense Secretary has recommended the removal of the military camp located within the historic Galle Fort.
Responding to recent statements made during a Galle District Coordination Committee meeting, the Ministry clarified that no such recommendation or agreement has been issued by the Defense Secretary to relocate or dismantle the military installation at the site.
The denial comes in response to remarks made by Minister Nalin Hewage, Chairman of the Galle District Coordination Committee, who claimed that the Defense Secretary had agreed to move the camp from its current location during discussions held at the committee level.
“The reports circulating that the Defense Secretary has called for the removal of the Galle Fort military camp are incorrect,” the Ministry stated. “No such decision or communication has been made.”
The military presence at Galle Fort has been a subject of public debate in recent years, given the site’s UNESCO World Heritage status and its significance as a major tourist destination. However, the latest clarification from the Defense Ministry appears to put to rest any speculation regarding an imminent relocation of the camp.
