• To commemorate post-Independence deceased due to armed conflicts, political unrest, civil disturbances including ex-combatants 

The Cabinet of Ministers, on Monday (22), has granted its approval for the proposal submitted by President Ranil Wickremesinghe to build a monument in Colombo to commemorate those who have died as a result of armed conflicts, political unrest or civil disturbances in Sri Lanka since Independence.

Speaking at the Cabinet media briefing held yesterday (23), Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Bandula Gunawardana said that the monument will be built to commemorate all civilians, including members of the Armed Forces and the Police and also ex-combatants.

“Since Sri Lanka got Independence in 1948, thousands of people have been killed in conflicts and civil unrest over the years. During those riots, every Sri Lankan had suffered a lot despite race, religion, class, etc. As a nation, we have understood that any type of conflict based on race, religion, caste or political opinion is unhealthy for our journey to achieve development. Therefore, the Government felt that there is a need for a common memorial to be constructed to commemorate victims of conflicts and civil unrest. So, the Cabinet yesterday (22) approved President Wickremesinghe’s proposal to build a common monument in a suitable place within the Municipality of Colombo,” he said.

Dr. Gunawardana emphasised that this decision is further endorsed by the Office for Reparations Act, No. 34 of 2018.