The Chief Prelates have not so far made a request to the government seeking the release of Venerable Galagoda Aththe Gnanasara Thero, according to Cabinet Spokesman Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

Minister Jayatissa made these remarks today (27) in response to a question raised at the weekly Cabinet media briefing.

However, the Minister stressed that even if such a request were made by the Chief Prelates, the government would act in accordance with the existing law and had no intention of overriding a judicial decision.

Minister Jayatissa also explained that the government had amended the Standing Orders of the Prisons Department following a letter sent to the Commissioner General of Prisons by the four Chief Prelates of the Buddhist Chapters.

According to the Minister, following the receipt of the letter, discussions were held with representatives of the Chief Prelates, including Anunayake Theros and senior officials pertaining to the matter. The discussions resulted in an agreement to amend the relevant prison regulations.

He said the authorities would proceed in accordance with the amended Standing Orders and noted that the present government had acted on the matters raised by the Chief Prelates.

“The government operates on the basis that everyone is subject to the law,” the Minister said, reiterating that there was no intention to change a decision delivered by a court by placing the government above the judiciary.

Minister Nalinda Jayatissa emphasized that the government would continue to act within the framework of the law regarding matters concerning Gnanasara Thero.