MP Namal Rajapaksa has issued a statement following the cancellation of a lecture he was scheduled to attend in the United Kingdom, which faced strong opposition from Tamil student organizations and activists.
According to the statement, the organizing committee was compelled to cancel the lectures and discussions due to pressure from organized groups, despite Rajapaksa having unconditionally accepted the invitation.
Namal Rajapaksa emphasized that, rather than being deterred by obstruction, he intends to demonstrate that dialogue and discussion are more effective than silencing through intimidation.
The MP also expressed his gratitude to both trade unions that invited him and expressed hope for an opportunity to participate in a forum promoting open dialogue in the future.
The full statement issued by Namal Rajapaksa reads:
*”The traditions of the Oxford Society and the Cambridge Society have for generations represented the highest ideals of free inquiry, debate, and courage.
Speakers invited to these historic forums are expected to confront difficult questions, defend their views, and engage with opposing viewpoints in front of an intelligent and critical audience. I had hoped to attend and accepted the invitation unconditionally, with all due respect.
It is regrettable that these lectures and discussion sessions have had to be cancelled due to pressure from organised groups. Addressing the issue through discussion rather than disruption will demonstrate to society that the exchange of ideas through argument is more important than silencing through intimidation.
I would like to state that I welcome the opportunity to engage directly with critics, including those who strongly oppose my views, as meaningful reconciliation and progress can only occur when different perspectives are met in open dialogue. Denying such engagement and opportunity does not strengthen democracy. Replacing engagement with division without debate is weakness.
I express my gratitude to both unions for their invitation and understand the difficult situation they faced. I hope that we will have the opportunity to meet in the future in a forum that encourages dialogue.
