UPFA gang vandalises statue of Uva-Wellassa hero
Political rivalries can sometimes claim the most surprising of victims. An example is when a group of United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) supporters ran amok in Bible town this week and vandalised a statue of celebrated patriot and hero of the UvaWellassa Rebellion, Bootawe Rate Rala.
The vandals had broken and destroyed the statute’s sword and also damaged the statue by attacking it with rocks.
The events had allegedly taken place after a UPFA campaign rally held in the town under the patronage of Pre s i d e n t M a i t h r i p a l a Sirisena came to an end on Thursday night. The group of UPFA supporters are also alleged to have attacked and damaged several party offices of rival Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP).
The vandalisation of Bootawe Rate Rala’s statue is also believed to have been politically motivated as the person responsible for its construction and placement is contesting the upcoming election from the United National Party (UNP).
A prominent UPFA Minister, an area politician, who was elected to Parliament from the National List at the last General Election, is reported to have been behind the attack.
Police are examining CCTV footage to identify those involved.
Bootawe Rate Rala is revered in the region as one of the first leaders to join the UvaWellassa Rebellion of 1818.