Ranawaka on song

Ishara JAYAWARDANE

Patali Champika Ranawaka can do no wrong these days. The timing of his book launch Thursday last just a few days away from the Parliamentary elections was perfect. Several distinguished guests graced this occasion.

Patali Champika Ranawaka

"I see in this book, this work, striking facets, one being far-sightedness," said Export Development and International Trade Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris. "There is also a sense of organization and purpose".

Indeed at this occasion many speakers hailed Ranawaka as a far sighted leader who understood that winning the hearts and minds of the people was the path to peace. He has been praised as a man who sees the future well in advance with astonishing accuracy. Chairman of Tharunyata Hetak Namal Rajapaksa who also attended this event presented Ranawaka his "laurels" when he said that he, Namal, was fortunate to be able to count Ranawaka as one of his friends.

Both Namal Rajapaksa and Ranawaka Arachchige Patali Champika Ranawaka who is the current Cabinet, Environment and Natural Resources Minister in the Government of Mahinda Rajapaksa strongly urged voters to seriously think about April 8, 2010.

The Ven. Akuratiye Nanda Thera who was also present at the occasion and took his turn at the podium spoke on the importance of nature saying that even the Buddha advocated the preservation and protection of nature.