Sri Lankan leaders issue Diwali messages calling for unity and justice

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa have issued messages to the Hindu community regarding the Diwali festival, emphasizing themes of coexistence and righteousness.

President Dissanayake described the festival as a symbol of light triumphing over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. He called for the cultivation of love, compassion, and brotherhood, urging the nation to choose coexistence over division. The President stated his government is committed to building a nation that respects all religious and cultural identities with equality and dignity.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa highlighted the festival’s message of resisting oppression and ensuring the triumph of righteousness over injustice. He noted that these principles are particularly relevant given Sri Lanka’s current economic and social challenges. Premadasa advocated for the protection of fundamental rights, democratic freedoms, and the rule of law, calling for a society that respects religious, ethnic, and linguistic diversity.