Former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has reiterated that the country's rulers are obligated to safeguard Buddhism. 

Speaking at a religious ceremony in Galle, he highlighted that even during foreign rule, efforts were made to protect the religion, and current leaders cannot escape this responsibility. 

He referred to the 1931 Buddhist Temporalities Act, which ensures that temple properties and donated gold items remain under the control of temples and devalayas. 

Wickremesinghe also noted that in 1815, King George III accepted the duty of protecting Buddhism, emphasizing that all political parties have a role in continuing this legacy in partnership with the Maha Sangha.