Ranil an exemplary leader - Prelate

Upa-Pradhana Sanganayake of the two districts in the North Central and Anuradhapura Lankaramadhipathi Ven. Ralapanawe Dhammajothi Nayaka Thera has referred to UNP leader and Presidential candidate Ranil Wickremesinghe as an exemplary leader who understood the country's problems.

"He has committed himself to the best of his ability to resolve the problems following the footsteps of past UNP leaders," the Thera said.

Addressing a religious ceremony at the Sri Mahabodhi to invoke blessings on Wickremesinghe and ensure his victory, the Nayaka Thera wished Wickremesinghe would get the opportunity to work for the country and people's welfare.

The Thera said the UNP has an admirable past. "Its history is timeless. D. S. Senanayake, founder of the UNP was responsible in obtaining independence to this country. He was the first Prime Minister and the nation referred to him as the 'Father of the Nation," he said. Dudley Senanayake was called the 'Bathdun Piya', because he too provided the free-rice ration to the poor.

The other UNP leaders had done their best to develop this country. Wickremesinghe is the unbroken link of that line of patriotic leaders and we are confident he will be faithful to the traditions set by his former leaders," the prelate said.

The Thera recalled the contribution made by Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister in building the 'Second Golden Fence' for the Sri Maha Bodhiya and he did not spend a cent from the 'Government'.

"We must also mention President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga's contribution," he said. Wickremesinghe said he wished to work to unite the country. "We have come a long way in achieving peace and from now on we have to walk as one group.

I am keen on having a dialogue with the Parties as it is the best method of reaching consensus and resolving the problem forever. I will ask for a mandate from the people and then work towards bringing peace and unity," he said.