The Hon. Gamagedara Dissanayake - Deputy Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, I need a minute to clarify a matter directly affecting my Ministry. An Opposition Member implied the Ratnapura Maha Saman Devalaya has been politicized. The term of the previous office‑holder ended, and the Commissioner General of Buddhist Affairs appointed a temporary custodian following due process. Some groups tried to create unrest. We examined qualifications and, in line with the Buddhist Temporalities Ordinance, provided a time‑frame to hold the proper election. The date is published; all interested parties can contest. Contrary to claims, rituals were only temporarily halted due to a funeral in the vicinity; this morning they resumed as usual. Appointments are being made lawfully, not politically.