SLMC established to safeguard Muslims' rights

Mohammed NAALIR

COLOMBO: The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress was founded in 1986 by the late Minister M.H.M. Ashraff to safeguard the privileges of the Muslim community, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress National leader MP Rauff Hakeem said.

Addressing the 20th anniversary meeting of the SLMC held at Passa Villa auditorium Wednesday Hakeem said that the idea to establish a political party for Muslims was planted by late TULF leader Amirthalingam in their leader Ashraff.

Hakeem said "we have to think in a productive way in relation to the peace process. We have stepped into the 20th year after forming the party and at this moment we have to do a lot to forge an everlasting peace".

The participation of different political parties is a symptom of ethnic unity and strengthening of ethnic relationship, said UNP Parliamentarian Dr. Jayalath Jayawardane addressing the anniversary meeting.