The opposition leader expressed dissatisfaction, stating that despite numerous debates surrounding the Easter attack, no substantial actions have been taken. Despite the President’s announcement of committee appointments, including the potential establishment of a selection committee, there has been a lack of progress. The opposition leader highlighted that, despite recommending a commission modelled after the 9/11 commission under opposition leadership, no such measures were implemented. The assertion was made that even after Gotabhaya Rajapaksa assumed power, expressing a commitment to identifying a mastermind, no concrete steps were taken.
Furthermore, the opposition leader emphasized that successive presidents had promised investigations on multiple occasions without tangible outcomes. Citing a perceived concealment of the truth, the opposition leader argued against offering apologies to any implicated parties and advocated for the pursuit of maximum legal measures. Mr. Sajith Premadasa made these remarks during a parliamentary address concerning the Easter attack.
The opposition leader also underscored the absence of protection or support for those directly or indirectly involved in the terrorist attack and those who failed in their duty to prevent it. Expressing sympathy for the suffering endured by the Catholic community and the nation, the opposition leader firmly rejected the presence of terrorism in the country. He acknowledged the Cardinal, the bishops’ conference, and the affected Catholic community, emphasizing that there is no justification for the attack under any circumstances. Mr Sajith Premadasa concluded by affirming that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya would persist in its struggle until the truth behind the Easter attack is uncovered.