Mahanayaka Theros to issue “Sangha Convention” against government

The Chief Prelates of all three Buddhist Chapters in Sri Lanka today called on the President, Prime Minister, Opposition Leader and all Members of Parliament to implement the proposals put forward by the Mahanayake Theras to resolve the present crisis in the country. 

Issuing a four-point joint statement, the Chief Prelates also warned that a “Sangha Convention” would be declared if the political leadership fails to do so. 

The statement issued by the Mahanayaka theras of Malwathu, Asgiri, Amarapura and Ramanya chapters called for the appointment of a multi party cabinet, repealing of the 20th Amendment which has taken away the checks and balances between the legislature and the executive, and to refrain from suppressing mass protests.

“The new cabinet which was appointed recently will not help resolve the present economic and political crisis,” the Mahanayaka theras said.

“We also condemn the recent killing at the mass protest in Rambukana on Tuesday,” the statement added.

The Mahanayaka Theras have issued also called on ministers, MPs and officials to dedicate their privileges to the welfare of the people.

The statement contains four key proposals that should be addressed by the entire political mechanism.

The statement also expressed regret over the failure of the government and the politicians to pay due attention to the proposals submitted by the Mahanayake Theras on April 4 regarding solutions to the current crisis.

If the country’s political leadership continues to be insensitive to the problems of the people without creating political stability in the country and working to resolve the economic crisis, the Maha Sangha of the three Chapters would unite against this and take action to declare a Sangha Convention, the statement added.

The joint statement is signed by Most Ven. Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayaka Thero of the Malwathu Chapter, Most Ven. Dr. Warakagoda Dhammasiddi Sri Gnanarathabidhana Mahanayake Thero of the Siyamopali Maha Nikaya – Asgiriya Chapter, Most Ven. Dodampahala Chandrasiri Maha Nayaka Thero of Sri Kelayanivasa, Amarapura Maha Nikaya and Maha Nayaka Thero of the Ramanna Maha Nikaya, Most Ven. Makulewe Wimalaabhidana Thero.