“Build the Nation, Not Chaos” : Sri Lanka's President Warns Conspirators

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has issued a stern warning against attempts to destabilize the country through conspiracies, asserting that while democratic freedoms will be protected, any effort to incite unrest or undermine the state will be met with decisive action.

Addressing recent developments, the President cited the seizure of a T-56 firearm in Kiribathgoda, which led authorities to uncover over 80 hand grenades hidden in a barrel in Vavuniya, allegedly intended for transport to Colombo. “What were they trying to do?” he asked, pointing to what he described as a broader pattern of subversive activity.

“We are building this country on a stable foundation,” he said. “Anyone is free to organize, speak to the people, and build political movements. But if anyone—be it from the underworld, defeated political factions, or even within the state—tries to conspire against the nation, we will not allow it.”

The President referenced past political crises, including the collapse of governments in 2001, 2018, and 2022, attributing them to conspiratorial forces. He emphasized that his administration is committed to identifying and neutralizing such threats, and will introduce new laws if existing ones are insufficient.

He also addressed recent controversies, including claims that His Eminence the Cardinal had prior knowledge of the Easter Sunday attacks, and statements by MP Udaya Gammanpila linking the arrest of a Navy Commander to the LTTE. “These are not mere words,” the President said. “Those who make such statements are accountable for every word.”

Reaffirming his commitment to media freedom and democratic engagement, President Dissanayake said, “We will not touch the media. You can write, speak, and organize. But conspiracies will be defeated.”

He called for unity across political lines, stating that the Cabinet, MPs, state officials, and even the opposition must work together to uplift the country. “This is the task at hand. We are ready to hear alternate proposals. What matters is building the nation.”