State Leaders Are Obligated to Safeguard Buddhism: Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe

23-Jan-2026

.

Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that the rulers of the country are duty-bound to protect Buddhism and cannot absolve themselves of this responsibility, even today.

Speaking at a religious event in the Galle district, he said that measures to protect Buddhism were taken even during colonial rule.

He referred to the Buddhist Viharas and Devalayas (Donations) Ordinance of 1931, which established that all properties and donated valuables belong to temples and viharas. He warned that any interference in these matters could have serious consequences for the country.

He also noted that in 1815, British King George III assumed responsibility for the protection of Buddhism. “Every political party has a duty to uphold this responsibility in cooperation with the Maha Sangha,” he said.