Opposition leader warns of 'indirect imperialism'

All citizens must unite to safeguard territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political freedom as the nation marks its 78th Independence Day, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa stated today (4).

Speaking at a ceremony at Polwatta Sri Dharmakirthyarama in Kollupitiya, he noted that while traditional empires were defeated to create a unified country, modern imperialism operates through different lenses.

The Opposition Leader pointed out that direct colonialism has been replaced by indirect forms of influence affecting the economic and social spheres, not only in Sri Lanka but across the Global South.

For the nation to achieve complete independence, these external forces must be overcome by securing civil, political, economic, and cultural freedoms that benefit all citizens.

During the event, he emphasised that providing the foremost place to the Buddha Sasana is the supreme law, while concurrently protecting other religions and cultures through unity.

He observed that while a democratic country hosts various political ideologies and theories, all factions must unite without division to ensure national security.

As Sri Lanka celebrates 78 years of independence, the Opposition Leader urged everyone to join a progressive journey to win total freedom for the future generation.