Venerable Athuraliye Rathana Thero has commenced a protest fast in front of Sri Dalada Maligawa this morning (31).

The purpose of this protest is to demand the removal of Minister Rishad Bathiudeen and Governors M.L.A.M Hizbullah and Azath Salley from their respective posts.

Speaking to media, Rathana Thero stated that a grave situation has resulted as certain ideologies were dispersed for over 20 years and alleged that Madrasah schools have engaged in initiating such violence for a long time.

As the extremists have infiltrated the country’s economy and various other fields, the entire state mechanism is currently being manipulated by them, the Venerable Thero claimed.

Eastern Province Governor M.LA.M, Hizbullah is using the powers of the Executive and the powers vested on the President, he added.

Athuraliye Rathana Thero states that M.L.A.M. Hizbullah, who has called for people in the Eastern Province to be forearmed, has been appointed as the governor of Eastern Province.

Alleging that Western Province Governor Azath Salley has also acted arbitrarily, Athuraliye Rathana Thero stated that Minister Bathiudeen has also engaged in fraudulent activities involving many stated institutions.

Hence, the Venerable Thero demands the immediate removal of Minister Bathiudeen and Governors Hizbullah and Azath Salley from their positions.