Colombo – In response to recent reports suggesting that a National People’s Force (NPF) government would strip Buddhism of its constitutional priority, Mr. Vijitha Herath, Member of Parliament and National Executive Member of the party, categorically dismissed these claims as false and baseless. He emphasized that the NPF stands as the political movement that most strongly safeguards the freedom of religion and belief.
Mr. Herath further stated, “I am still the vice president of the Sri Lanka Ramanya Nikaya, and I bear this responsibility with great care. As the former Minister of Culture, I am well aware of my duties in protecting religious practices in this country.” His statement underscores the NPF’s dedication to ensuring that the rights of all religious communities are upheld, while maintaining the constitutional status of Buddhism.
The party’s discussions on religious rights, according to Mr. Herath, are aimed at fostering an environment where freedom of worship is respected. He criticized other political movements for allegedly exploiting religion for narrow personal or political gains, affirming that the NPF is firmly against such practices.
“The National People’s Force will never use religion for narrow gains. We remain committed to protecting the religious freedoms of all communities while upholding the constitutional prominence of Buddhism,” Herath concluded.
This statement comes amid heightened political debates on the role of religion in Sri Lanka’s governance, with many observing how different parties position themselves on this sensitive issue ahead of the upcoming elections.
