War Heroes Remembrance debate continues as NPP MP Aruna Panagoda says all who died in war deserve respect, but no one is above the law.
War Heroes Remembrance is ultimately about remembering those who died in war, regardless of the name used, NPP MP Aruna Panagoda said.
National People’s Power Member of Parliament Aruna Panagoda said whether it is called “Soldiers’ Remembrance” or “War Heroes’ Remembrance,” the purpose remains the same.
He said what is actually being done is remembering those who lost their lives because of the war.
Panagoda pointed out that during the long war in Sri Lanka, people of the same nation were divided into two groups.
He said military personnel, as well as those on the other side, were all participants in that war.
The MP further stated that, in the end, it was the entire public of the country that suffered because of the conflict.
Since the war has now ended, he said the government has taken necessary steps to give due respect to everyone who made sacrifices during that period.
Commenting on the rule of law, Panagoda emphasized that every person in the country must be subject to the law.
“If anyone violates the civil laws of the government, they become someone who has shirked their responsibility as a citizen under ordinary law. Accordingly, whether he is a war hero or the President, he must be accountable to the law,” he stated.
He also said military service cannot be considered a qualification to bypass the ordinary laws of the country.
Responding to allegations levelled against the government by the opposition, Panagoda said everyone must be subject to the law.
He added that there would be no special treatment when enforcing the law.
