The Bodu Bala Sena (BBS) extended an invitation to all major Presidential candidates to present their manifestos to the country on a single platform in front of the Buddhist clergy, without making contradictory statements on different occasions.
Speaking at a press conference held yesterday (6), BBS General Secretary Galagodaththe Gnanasara Thera revealed its plans to gather around 4,000-5,000 Buddhist monks at a single venue where the leading Presidential candidates — President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) and Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa, and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP)-led National People's Power (NPP) Leader and Opposition Parliamentarian Anura Kumara Dissanayake — can present their policies to the nation.
He criticised the current trend of candidates making 'populist' statements rather than presenting concrete policy agendas to address the country’s issues. "One person is talking about the past 76 years. Another is talking about bankruptcy while the other is presenting programmes aimed at 2048. But, no one presents a proper programme. Therefore, we will be inviting them openly to come and present their programme to the country. Otherwise, they will be going everywhere making different statements, thereby washing the people's minds," he claimed.
Meanwhile, he also emphasised the need for unity among all political parties to stabilise the country before engaging in party politics for power. He expressed gratitude to President Wickremesinghe for stabilising the economy and restoring law and order following the massive protests. "Everyone must unite to make the country more stable. Premadasa was the Deputy Leader of the United National Party (UNP) when President Wickremesinghe was the Leader (he still is). SJB supporters were formerly UNP supporters. So, why can they not get together? If Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna Leader and former President and incumbent Government MP Mahinda Rajapaksa can help Wickremesinghe, and Opposition MP and former President Maithripala Sirisena could run a Government with Wickremesinghe, why can’t these other opponents unite for the country?," he queried.
He also highlighted the critical nature of the coming years for Sri Lanka, particularly concerning the geopolitical landscape. He stressed the importance of having a leader capable of rebuilding the country and establishing it as a strong leader on the global stage. He asserted that the freedom to choose such a leader should be given to the citizens.