Commemoration ceremony of Somaweera Chandrasiri:

Patriotic politicians will always be in our hearts - Hettige

Virtues of politicians who work with love for the country, the nation and the religion are etched deep in the hearts of the people, even after they are no more, Parliamentary Affairs Presidential Secretary Kumarasiri Hettige said.

Pointing out that the present day political field has fallen into a state of unpleasantness and decadence due to the wrong decisions of some short-sighted politicians of the past, Hettige said it is essential to steer clear of that situation and embark on political reforms suitable to the country.

Hettige made these observations participating in a religious function organised to mark the 41st commemoration of former Cultural Affairs Deputy Minister Somaweera Chandrasiri who represented the Moratuwa and Kesbewa seats.

Hettige said although Chandrasiri died 41 years ago, his human qualities are still remembered by the common people. The commemorative religious function was held on July 10 at the Piliyandala Vishva Kala Buddhist Centre, organised by the Somaweera Chandrasiri Foundation.

Hettige said: “A pioneer in the struggle against British imperialists, Chandrasiri rendered an invaluable service to the country and nation as a poet, a writer and an artiste, which we can never forget. He was a noble politician and was even jailed for being among the people by publishing the paper, Nidahasa, for the freedom of the masses.

“This veteran politician is a good example to many a politician today. He did clean politics and defended it to the hilt and earned not money, but people. He took great pains to create a nation full of patriotism. In today's politics which has become so complicated what has become prominent is unpleasantness in every possible manner.

“Politicians have become a corrupt lot. This Provincial Council system too has contributed to worsen this unpleasantness and meaninglessness. How many of them truly represent the aspirations of the people? Some are like a pair of thammettama, making one sound at one election and making another sound at another election. “There are many lessons we can learn from Somaweera Chandrasiri, the humanist, as to how it is possible to serve the common masses amidst numerous challenges and difficulties.

“The political leadership given by President, Mahinda Rajapaksa to defeat terrorism is unique and unparalleled. Although terrorism has been defeated, still there are many challenges before the country. Prominent among them is the creation or a political culture suitable to the country. To win those challenges and overcome the difficulties, there is no alternative for the country other than the President. It is the duty of all responsible persons to build a sound country for the future generation.” Harindranath Chandrasiri also addressed the gathering.

The religious function was followed by a kavi bana preached by Nampamunuwa Sri Nikethanaramaya, Piliyandala chief Incumbent Ven Udugalmote Thilakasiri Thera.