Maha Sanga inititates a march requesting Premadasa be named presidential candiate

Colombo (News 1st): The Thrainikaika Sangha Peramuna commenced a march from Colombo today (September 20) requesting UNP Deputy Leader and Minister, Sajith Premadasa be named as the UNPs Presidential Election Candidate. The walk named ''Rata Surakina Paa Gamana", commenced opposite the Buddha statue placed at the Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo. Speaking to the media Deputy Secretary of the Sasanarakshaka Balamandala in Kesbewa Venenrable Ukgoda Dhammindha Thero said reminding the fact that Sajith Premadasa is the most suitable to be fielded as the presidential candidate, the all-island Thrainikaika Sangha Peramuna will hand over this epistle to the honourable prime minister. Making comments regarding this Ulapane Sumangala Thero noted that when the Maha Sanga initiated a march, demanding for a democratic leader to be fielded as the presidential candidate, the prime minister of the country responded by assigning riot police opposite Temple Trees. He added that a leader should be elected by the general public and it is the people's mandate. The Thero went onto note that using powers and authority to suppress the people's mandate is undemocratic. Leaders who respect democracy should pay attention to what the peoples ask for. Sumangala Thero went onto note that if state powers are being used to protect one's own powers, the people will not refrain from taking the necessary measures against this at the right time. The march concluded near the statue of the founder of the UNP, Mahamanya D.S.Senanayaka, at Independence Square. Subsequently, an Adhishtana Pooja took place at Independence Square. While this march was taking place, riot police were stationed opposite Temple Trees.