“Blessings of Maha Sangha Have Guided My Political Journey”

• “Seeking Maha Sangha's Guidance to Propel National Progress”- President.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that throughout his political career, he has consistently received the blessings of the Maha Sangha, and he anticipates their continued advice and guidance for his initiative to build a robust economy for the entire nation.

He made these remarks during the Sathkorala Maha Sangha Conference held in Kurunegala today (27).

The Maha Sangha expressed their appreciation for President Wickremesinghe's efforts for both the country and the Buddhasasana by chanting Seth Pirith and offering their blessings.

The President assured the Maha Sangha that his government will remain dedicated to addressing the needs of the country’s suffering people. He also emphasized that his current presidential campaign is aimed at continuing the recovery program initiated over the past two years.

Addressing the gathering, President Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

Today, I visited Kurunegala and seek the blessings of the Maha Sangha to launch my election campaign with their guidance. As we advance the country, I continually value the advice and support of the Maha Sangha.

When I assumed presidency during a challenging period, the situation was dire. In 2019, our treasury held USD 7 billion, but by 2022, the government was left with less than USD 100 million. We faced shortages of fuel, fertilizer, and medicine. Even the devotees were not able to offer “Danaya” to the Maha Sangha.

Upon taking office, I received the blessings of the Maha Sangha and formed a government independent of traditional party lines. Together, we worked to rebuild the collapsed economy and made tough decisions to move the country forward.

We initially stabilized the economy with the support of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Today, while some may overlook the hardships of 2022, we have not only addressed the economic crisis but also worked to provide relief to the people. Our commitment remains to continue offering more support and relief in the future.

As a government, we are dedicated to securing the rights of the people who are suffering. Our work must continue. I am running for the upcoming presidential election to advance the recovery program we have been implementing over the past two years.

We have a crucial agreement with the IMF, and we must stay the course. Deviating from this path could risk another economic collapse. Some presidential candidates are promising to reduce taxes, but if such measures are taken prematurely, they may prevent us from providing the necessary relief to the people.

Since forming the government, we have focused on increasing foreign reserves and strengthening the rupee. In the coming two years, it is essential that the rupee remains strong to keep the country moving forward. Relief for the people can only be given by strengthening the rupee.

Therefore, we need to recognize the truth and move forward. Don't be misled by false promises once again.

Governor of the Southern Province, Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena;

We believe you are aware that President Ranil Wickremesinghe is running as an independent candidate in the 2024 presidential election.

Since 1977, the Maha Sangha has played a crucial role in guiding and saving the country during its most challenging times. During the period of public struggle and long queues under the previous regime, President Ranil Wickremesinghe stepped up to lead the country and brought an end to that difficult era.

In the two years that followed, he transformed the country’s economy into a thriving one. Had he not taken on this responsibility, Sri Lanka might have faced a fate similar to that of Bangladesh.

Maha Sangha led by Anunayaka of the Sri Lanka Ramanna Maha Nikaya, Chief Incumbent of Nikaweratiya Sri Palitha Pirivena Venerable Galahitiagama Wimaladhamma Thero, Karaka Sangha Sabhika of the Asgiri Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya, North Western Provincial Chief Sanghanayaka Prof. Venerable Kadulle Sri Seelakkhanda Thero, Chief Incumbent of Colombogama Miuhagunarama Rajamaha Viharaya Venerable Gallapitiye Premarathana Thero, Chief Sanghanayaka of Waudapalla Hathpattuwa of Malwathu Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya Venerable Ehelepola Indrajothi Thero, Minister Tiran Alles, State Ministers Shantha Bandara, D.B. Herath, MPs Asanka Navarathna, Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Vice Leader of the United National Party and Senior Advisor to the President Akila Viraj Kariyawasam and several guests attended the event.