• No politicians invited to commemoration 
• Govt says other non-official commemorations protected under freedom of remembrance 

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake said the aspirations of war heroes who fought to liberate the country included the creation of a developed and just Nation, and the Government is committed to fulfilling that vision.

President Dissanayake made the remarks while addressing the 17th National War Heroes’ Commemoration Ceremony held in Battaramulla yesterday (19).

The President said that the armed forces made a significant contribution in bringing relief to millions of citizens, adding their sacrifices must be honoured not only through remembrance but also by building a progressive and developed country.

He noted that many families continue to experience the loss of loved ones from the war, including children, spouses, and parents who still mourn. President Dissanayake emphasised that Sri Lanka must ensure that such suffering is never repeated and that lasting peace is preserved.

He also highlighted the role of the armed forces in disaster response and national emergencies, describing their service as exceptional.

The President said that the Government is working to strengthen the country’s international standing while ensuring the rule of law and judicial independence, adding that these reforms align with the aspirations of those who sacrificed their lives.

He further stated that Sri Lanka belongs to all communities and rejected division along ethnic lines, noting that the war was fought against separatism rather than any community.

President Dissanayake added the Government’s focus is to prevent the recurrence of conflict and to build a democratic society where equality before the law is guaranteed and all citizens have equal opportunity regardless of status.

President Dissanayake concluded by paying tribute to the armed forces for their service and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to peace, unity and national development.

Meanwhile, the Government has confirmed that no political representatives were invited to the National War Heroes’ commemoration ceremony, held yesterday (19) in Battaramulla, marking 17 years since the defeat of terrorism in Sri Lanka.

Minister Vijitha Herath made the announcement at the weekly Cabinet of Ministers media briefing, stating that the event was limited to the President, the Deputy Defence Minister Aruna Jayasekara and the Public Security Minister in their official capacities. He said that members of the Tri-Forces and the Police also participated in the ceremony, while no other political figures had been invited.

Responding to questions from journalists, Herath clarified that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa was not among the invitees.

During the briefing, he was also questioned about other commemorative events being held outside the official programme, including the “Genocide Week” commemorations in Mullaitivu. In response, Herath said that all citizens have the right to remember family members who lost their lives during the conflict, regardless of ethnicity. He added that the Government is ensuring that the freedom of commemoration is protected for all communities.