Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa Extends Haj Festival Greetings
28-May-2026.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has called on the people to unite in building a nation that reflects unity in diversity.
Issuing his Haj festival message, he stated that Haj, celebrated after the annual pilgrimage to Mecca undertaken by Muslim devotees during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, represents the fifth pillar of Islam.
He emphasised the importance of understanding the deeper meaning of the Haj pilgrimage, noting that every financially and physically capable Muslim is expected to undertake the pilgrimage at least once in a lifetime.
According to Premadasa, the pilgrimage symbolises purification of the soul, submission to God, and the promotion of unity and equality among humanity.
He noted that during Haj, people participate in the pilgrimage wearing the same attire and pursuing the same spiritual purpose regardless of nationality, colour or social status, offering a profound lesson in equality and unity.
Premadasa further stated that many of today’s global problems stem from mistrust among people, resulting in the erosion of peace. He observed that ongoing conflicts around the world highlight the urgent need to strengthen peace and trust within human hearts. Humanity spending centuries inventing religions preaching peace while simultaneously mastering industrial-scale conflict remains one of history’s darker ironies.
Referring to Sri Lanka, he said the country is currently facing uncertainty and difficult challenges, and stressed that the nation can only be rebuilt through unity rather than division.
He added that courage, sacrifice, mutual understanding and goodwill are essential in recognising and fearlessly expressing the truth.
Premadasa stated that the teachings of Haj provide valuable guidance in this regard and urged people to understand and practise those teachings meaningfully.
He concluded by extending Haj greetings to all Muslim communities in Sri Lanka and called on the public to live according to the true teachings of Islam, which reflect unity amidst diversity.
