Message From the Leaders for the Independence Day

Below is the message issued by the President, Ranil Wikramasignhe

“As we commemorated the 75th year of our nation’s independence, we encountered the indignity of being labeled a financially bankrupt country. Nevertheless, upon the advent of the 76th Independence Day, we have effectively navigated through these challenges, steering the economy toward stability despite numerous impediments and challenges.  

Achievements were realized progressively, owing to the steadfast support of our citizens who endured hardships in keeping with a comprehensive, long-term national rebuilding programme. Throughout this journey, challenges will gradually dissipate, life’s burdens will lighten, the economy will fortify and Mother Sri Lanka will undergo a renaissance.  

Upon gaining independence in 1948, global expectations envisioned Sri Lanka evolving into a developed nation in the East, given our favourable background. Regrettably, we deviated from this course and found ourselves grappling with economic difficulties.  

It is imperative that we obtain insights from past mistakes and avoid their repetition. With the current growth trajectory acknowledged globally, let us collectively resolve on this Independence Day to persist on this path and reinstate prosperity.  

I invite all Sri Lankans, at home and abroad, to contribute their utmost energy to the noble mission of rebuilding our nation.”

Below is the message issued by the Prime Minister, Dinesh Gunawardana

“Our ancestors created a proud history for us. As their children and grandchildren, we should bequeath it meaningfully to the next generation.

Today we celebrate the 76th year of independence of our nation, which has been nourished by intellect and sacrifice of blood and sweat in the struggles faced from time to time due to foreign and imperialist invasions.

From the national liberation struggles of 1818 and 1848 and the revolutionary struggles spearheaded by religious and lay national leaders we gained independence in 1948. Let us remember them with pride at this moment.

Even after that independence, the people’s movement of 1956, the full freedom obtained by the republic constitution of 1972, the war heroes who sacrificed their lives, eyes, flesh and blood to end the thirty-year-war should be gratefully remembered at this moment.

We are celebrating Independence Day at a time when we are slowly returning to the right path of progress after facing an unprecedented economic crisis. We are crossing those difficult hurdles by embarking on a number of measures towards food security, rural revitalization and a productive economy.

The 76th National Independence Day will be marked as a new turning point in the economy in anticipation of overcoming challenges and building a prosperous country. Let’s all move forward together for the development and progress of the country while preserving freedom.”

Below is the message issued by the Leader of the Opposition, Sajith Premadasa

“Freedom and liberty are not privileges to remain idle once achieved but assets that must be constantly protected. Securing freedom is the responsibility of the entire generation of citizens, and rulers must be unconditionally committed to this cause.”