As the fifth anniversary of the tragic Easter Sunday attacks in Sri Lanka unfolds, the discourse surrounding accountability and responsibility has once again surged to the forefront. In the midst of commemorative events, former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa finds himself entangled in allegations put forth by Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith. However, Rajapaksa, in a comprehensive statement, vehemently refutes these accusations and sheds light on the intricacies of the situation.
At the heart of the matter lies Cardinal Ranjith’s assertions that Rajapaksa, following the submission of the Presidential Commission report, conveyed hindrances in implementing its recommendations, citing potential repercussions on certain individuals and organizations allegedly allied with him. Rajapaksa firmly rebuts these claims, asserting that no such conversation transpired between him and the Cardinal post the report submission. Moreover, he emphasizes the lack of support from the Muslim community during his presidency, debunking any insinuations of affiliations that would impede justice in the aftermath of the attacks.
Addressing the timeline of events, Rajapaksa clarifies the expeditious dissemination of the commission’s report, ensuring its prompt delivery to relevant authorities and stakeholders. He underscores the formation of a Cabinet Sub-committee tasked with prioritizing and executing the report’s recommendations, illustrating a commitment to swift action within the confines of governmental processes.
Regarding the contentious transfer of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Director, Rajapaksa provides context, elucidating the circumstances leading to the transfer initiated by the Police Commission, independent of his influence. He refutes any insinuations of malintent, highlighting the CID’s lapses in preempting the Easter Sunday attacks despite prior investigations into related incidents.
Rajapaksa further asserts the collective responsibility of law enforcement agencies, the Attorney General’s Department, and the judicial system in ensuring justice for the victims of the Easter Sunday bombings. He underscores ongoing legal proceedings against individuals implicated in the attacks, emphasizing the collaborative efforts aimed at delivering justice.
Central to Rajapaksa’s rebuttal is the juxtaposition of the CID’s investigative oversights preceding the attacks with Cardinal Ranjith’s targeted criticism. He urges the public to discern the complexities of the situation, emphasizing the shared culpability of relevant authorities while cautioning against the selective attribution of blame.
As the discourse surrounding the Easter Sunday attacks continues to unfold, Rajapaksa’s comprehensive response provides valuable insights into the multifaceted dynamics at play. In navigating the path towards accountability and justice, it becomes imperative to acknowledge the nuanced intricacies of governance, law enforcement, and institutional responsibilities, transcending the realm of political rhetoric to prioritize the welfare of the nation and its citizens.
