Sri Lanka: “Take Action Against Minister Lal Kantha”: National Sangha Federation Issues Stern Warning to President
By Lions Roar News Religious & Political Bureau
KANDY, SRI LANKA (January 13, 2026) — The Jathika Sangha Sammelanaya (National Sangha Federation) has issued a fierce ultimatum to the government, demanding immediate action against Minister K.D. Lalkantha for allegedly making “insulting and disgraceful” remarks regarding the Buddhist clergy.
The President of the Federation, Venerable Liyanwala Shasanaratana Thero, warned that if the government fails to intervene, it will soon face “bitter consequences” and a massive public backlash.
🏛️ A Historic Disrespect
Speaking at a press conference held at the Madawala Janamangalarama International Buddhist Centre in Kandy yesterday, the Thero emphasized that while political disagreements with the clergy are common, the nature of the Minister’s recent comments is unprecedented in Sri Lankan history.
- “Uncivilized Language”: Shasanaratana Thero described the Minister’s rhetoric as “wild, lowly, and vile,” comparing the Minister’s behavior to that of a “wild animal emerging from the forest.”
- The Demand for Retraction: The Federation has demanded that Minister Lalkantha formally withdraw his statement immediately.
⚠️ Warning to President Dissanayake
The Thero directed a specific appeal to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, urging him to restrain the Minister before social harmony is further jeopardized.
“Mr. President, if you do not ‘tie down’ this individual quickly, this country will fall into an even greater danger that no one will be able to prevent. If you do not change within this culture, the people of this country will respond very soon.” — Ven. Liyanwala Shasanaratana Thero
🛡️ The Role of the Clergy
The Thero defended the right of the Maha Sangha to intervene in national affairs, stating that monks have a historical right and responsibility to challenge “fraudulent agendas” that threaten to ruin the country. He warned that failure to address these insults would lead the country toward an unpredictable and dangerous path.
