Death penalty unacceptable, says Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith

11-Aug-2026

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The Catholic Church cannot accept the death penalty under any circumstances, as it violates human dignity, Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith said.

He stressed that, according to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the death penalty is unacceptable and that the Church cannot support the imposition of capital punishment.

At the same time, Cardinal Ranjith said the Catholic Church has complete confidence in the independence of Sri Lanka’s judiciary and that it was not the intention of the Church to interfere in any way with judicial decisions or deliberations.

The Cardinal made these remarks in a special media statement issued on August 10, 2026.

The statement said:

“Against the backdrop of the recent discussions concerning the Easter Sunday bomb attacks, the Archdiocese of Colombo continues to work in full solidarity and cooperation with those affected by the attacks.

“We wish to reaffirm that the firm expectation of the Archdiocese of Colombo is to remain committed to bringing to light the mastermind or masterminds behind these attacks, as well as all those responsible, and to ensuring justice for the victims in accordance with the law of the country.

“We remain vigilant about the need to create public awareness regarding the prevention of any planned or extremist attacks that could occur again at any religious place of worship or elsewhere in the country. All those in positions of authority must make every possible effort at all times to prevent such a tragedy from occurring to anyone.

“In accordance with Article 2267 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, we wish to make it clear that the death penalty is unacceptable because it violates human dignity. We cannot accept the imposition of the death penalty under the teachings of the Church.

“At the same time, we have complete confidence in the independence of Sri Lanka’s judiciary. We wish to emphasise that it is not our intention in any way to interfere with its decisions or deliberations.

“The Catholic Church does not seek revenge. As stated by Pope John Paul II, human beings are called to overcome grief and personal vengeance and to offer forgiveness wholeheartedly.

“However, civil society and the legal system must ensure public peace, justice and accountability through established courts of law.”