Opposition leader and Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) presidential candidate, Sajith Premadasa, delivering speech during a campaign rally in Kattankudy, criticized the current political leaders for their silence during the controversial Muslim cremation issue during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Premadasa remarked, “Today’s so-called leaders stayed quiet when the Muslim community was suffering due to the forced cremation policy, but we took to the streets in protest.” He emphasized the stark contrast between his actions and those of leaders like Anura Kumara Dissanayake and President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
“These leaders were afraid to stand up for the Muslim people back then, yet today they seek their votes,” Premadasa added.
The cremation controversy, which occurred under former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s administration, drew widespread condemnation both locally and internationally, including from the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite this, the Rajapaksa government enforced the cremation of Muslim COVID-19 victims against their religious beliefs. “The SJB was the only party that spoke up and fought for the Muslim community at that time,” Premadasa reiterated, noting that while others were silent, he and his party were on the streets, advocating for justice.
Premadasa’s comments came during the SJB’s 60th rally as part of the 2024 presidential campaign, where he underscored his commitment to equality, unity, and justice for all communities. He stressed, “A true leader must treat every citizen equally, irrespective of race or religion. It is the responsibility of the people to elect such a leader.”
In addition to addressing local issues, Premadasa extended his solidarity to the Palestinian people. He likened the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict to the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany, condemning what he termed “state terrorism” by Israel. “While others may be afraid to speak out, I stand with the Palestinian people, just as my father Ranasinghe Premadasa did,” he stated. (Newswire)