– Veteran actor Roger Seneviratne
– Veteran singer Rajeev Sebastian
– Veteran actor Senaka Wijesinghe
– Director Ranga Wijewickrama
– Film producer Mohan Hettiarachchi
“Artists Unite in Support of President Ranil Wickremesinghe”
Veteran actor Roger Seneviratne remarked that a leader once forgotten by history,President Ranil Wickremesinghe, was brought back to prominence through the nation’s crisis and struggle. He credited President Wickremesinghe with saving SriLanka from potential devastation and restoring stable governance. Seneviratne also stressed that although the economic crisis is not yet fully resolved, the people must decide on September 21 whether to allow the country to collapse again or to secure its recovery.
These remarks were made at a press conference held yesterday (11) at President Wickremesinghe’s political office in Flower Road, Colombo, where a group of veteran Sri Lankan artists voiced their support for the President in the upcoming election. They highlighted how the country’s art sector, severely impacted by recurring national issues, had begun to recover after the economic crisis in 2022, thanks to the programs initiated by President Wickremesinghe.
The artists expressed their commitment to backing the President in the upcoming election to ensure a prosperous future for both the art industry and the nation as a whole.At the press conference, veteran actor Roger Seneviratne elaborated on his thoughts,stating:
“Through the crisis and struggle, we have rediscovered a leader who had once been overlooked in history. We experienced a time when people died in queues, some even took their own lives, and essentials like fuel, gas, milk powder, food, and electricity were unavailable. That was the reality just 25 months ago, but President Ranil Wickremesinghe changed that. Despite holding just one parliamentary seat, he stepped forward to take the position of Prime Minister. Since then, the long queues have disappeared, and the country, which was heading toward massive destruction,was brought back under proper control.
Historically, we’ve faced many presidential elections where political issues took precedence, and the economy was not a significant factor. This time, however, we must elect a president based on economic concerns. Although we’ve managed to pull the country out of economic bankruptcy, there’s still uncertainty about whether we will fall back or continue to progress. The decision we make on September 21 will be crucial.”
Veteran Actor Senaka Wijesinghe:
“It should not be forgotten that the JVP, which is now seeking power by promising to end the so-called 76-year curse, has supported various political parties from 1994 to 2015. As a result, the JVP contributed to the country’s downfall during 30 of those 76 years.
I was a full-time member of the JVP in the Harispattuwa South region in 1988, and I understand them inside and out. I am ready to debate any JVP leader publicly. I know the inner workings of the JVP, what they did, and how they operated, including their acts of violence.Therefore, I urge the people of this country to reconsider. The vision you have of an idealized state does not lie within the JVP. Their cadres are not driven by humanity,and supporting them will only lead to future disaster. The JVP cannot build a prosperous nation. While we share the frustration with existing political parties, this time, we have a leader who possesses the scientific knowledge necessary to solve the country’s crisis in the next five years.”
Film and TV Director Ranga Wijewickrama:
“The art sector, along with artists, has faced severe hardships during various periods of instability in the country. However, after the crisis in 2022, thanks to President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s leadership, the art industry and artists have once again found their footing.Today, people are hosting music concerts and cultural events, moving beyond past pressures and embracing life anew. At this critical moment, we must support the
President in rebuilding the country’s economy. Every weekend, festivals are held across the nation, and people are enjoying life again. We cannot afford to be complacent or deny the progress we’ve made. We must ensure that this positive momentum continues, which is why we are standing behind President Ranil Wickremesinghe.”
Film Producer Mohan Hettiarachi:
“For a nation to truly prosper, it must develop economically. As artists, we have decided to support President Ranil Wickremesinghe to help build a strong economy for future generations.While some choose to divert attention away from economic issues and focus on other matters, this is not the time for such distractions. We need unity to rebuild the nation.It’s essential to consider the future consequences of our choices. Supporting President Ranil Wickremesinghe is a pivotal step in ensuring a stronger, better country for all.”
Veteran Singer Rajeev Sebastian:
“President Ranil Wickremesinghe has made significant contributions to the arts sector in Sri Lanka. His vision led to the creation of the National Youth Services Council, which has produced many of the country’s veteran artists who are still active today. Thanks to the President’s foresight, artists have been able to secure a promising future. Even
if Ranil himself does not seek anything from the country at this moment, it must be said that the country needs Ranil.”
Media Unit Ranil 24 – “Ranil ta Puluwan”
