The Prime Minister said that the country’s culture had built up due to Buddhist influence. This is nothing new or to be surprised as culture and art in all countries surfaced due to religious influence. The Prime Minister pointed out that he would be dedicated to protecting the Buddhist heritages of this island.

He gave this assurance joining in the 39th Navam Maha Perahera of the Gangarama temple in Hunupitiya on February 22.


Delivering an anusasana on the occasion Chief Incumbent of the Gangarama Temple the Ven. Galaboda Gnanissara Thera said that this government has brought the country close to embarking on a fruitful journey towards development and that he would wish to tell Mr. Rajapaksa not to sabotage the government’s activities.

The prelate also told Premier Wickremesinghe that one should not lose his temper. He told the Prime Minister that he should not lose his cool as he can be aggressive. He further told him to do so only when the need arises.

Ministers Ravi Karunanayake, Arjuna Ranatunge and Daya Gamage were among those present on the occasion.