Nugegoda, August 29, 2024 — Representatives from 65 national organizations and people’s power groups have signed a memorandum of understanding to oppose the Truth Commission Act, which they argue could jeopardize the safety and integrity of military personnel. The event, held in Nugegoda, was presided over by Dilith Jayaweera, a Sarvajana candidate and prominent entrepreneur.
The memorandum was established with the goal of countering what these organizations perceive as a treasonous operation by the Security Forces through the Truth Commission Act. The act, according to the critics, could lead to military personnel being taken to military courts, thereby undermining their service and sacrifices.
During the ceremony, which included the presentation of the ‘War Heroes Speech’ by the National Organization Unity and the Global Sri Lankan Forum, Dilith Jayaweera emphasized his commitment to safeguarding war heroes from potential international and domestic legal challenges.
Jayaweera, who is running for president under the Sarvajana banner, addressed the attendees, stating, “As a presidential candidate, I see it as my duty to ensure that leaders who are willing to betray for their own survival are exposed. Who will fund these deceitful operations? Who will pay for multiple meetings in a single day? If a soldier, who has risked his life, cannot find peace or mental relief, then those corrupt politicians must be held accountable.”
He criticized the expansion of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission outlined on page 230 of the recent manifesto from the Dampatin faction. Jayaweera voiced his strong opposition to the idea of increasing the commission’s activities, suggesting that it could lead to punishment for war heroes. He firmly stated, “I will do everything within my power to protect our war heroes for as long as I live.”
The agreement highlights a significant political and social stance against the Truth Commission Act, reflecting concerns about its potential impact on the military and national security.
