Did Mangala express Govt’s view?

Joint opposition MP Wimal Weerawansa yesterday asked whether the statement made by Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera that the Cardinal was engaged in fanning flames of hatred is the official stance of the government.

We must respect all religious leaders including the most Ven. Mahanayaka Theras

“The minister had said Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith had done so by visiting Ven. Athureliye Rathana Thera during his fast unto death. The Cardinal never did this. There would have been a backlash soon after the Easter Sunday attacks if it was so. Did the minister express the views of the government,” he asked.

The MP was referring to the twitter message posted by the minister urging Vatican to take action against the Cardinal.

H o u s e L e a d e r Lakshman Kiriella in his response said the minister will make a statement on it later.

“We must respect all religious leaders including the most Ven. Mahanayaka Theras,” he said.