Ref: ACJU/NGS/2022/112
2022.05.12
As part of exercising their democratic right, the people of our country have been engaging in peaceful protests for almost 1 ½ months now, as they have been coerced to face the issues such as fuel shortage, rising prices of essential goods, regular power cuts among many others.
It is known nationally and internationally that these protests have emerged from the people, irrespective of race, religion or party affiliations, in order to pave way for positive and effective political change in the country. In this context, it is unfortunate to note that some factions are trying immensely to portray these peaceful, democratic protests as backed by racial and/or ethnic groups, in order to divert them towards ethnic riots.
Some individuals and groups have been spreading misleading and false information on social media, in an attempt to claim that these protests are against the Buddhist leadership and Buddhism in this country, hence Muslims and Christians have come together to extend their support to it. Thus, the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU) requests the entire citizenry of this country that they shall stay vigilant, and that religious leaders, communal leaders and relevant authorities take immediate and necessary measures to curb such efforts.
Further, ACJU condemns the cowardly attacks on peaceful protesters on 9th May and the violence erupted in various parts of the country following the said attacks, and urges that all political leaders must understand and act upon the feelings and requests of the public, and should engage in efforts to restore political stability and eliminate economic hardships.
The ACJU appeals the citizens of our country to abide by the laws in force, and to cooperate with the efforts of security forces, and to avoid engaging in violence, while maintaining order and tolerance, with the ultimate goal of restoring peace and prosperity in our beloved motherland.
The ACJU urges the religious leaders to come forward in this crucial moment and take necessary steps to establish and restore peace and calmness among the people, in order for our country to progress towards prosperity.
Ash Shaikh M. Arkam Nooramith
General Secretary – ACJU
