Murderers and Corrupt Individuals Will Not Be Allowed to Rebrand Themselves as Innocent – Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith
Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith has stated that those who were involved in killings and corruption in the past will not be allowed to wash away their actions and present themselves as respectable figures before society. He also emphasized that any attempt to conceal the truth behind the Easter Sunday attacks will not be tolerated.
The Archbishop made these remarks during a special religious service held on Friday night in connection with the annual feast of St. Anthony’s Shrine in Kochchikade, Colombo.
Key Points from His Statement
- Following the change of government in September 2024, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met victims of the Easter Sunday attacks and reportedly pledged that the truth behind the tragedy would never be hidden.
- According to the Archbishop, investigations have since gained renewed momentum.
- Investigators have informed the courts that there is evidence suggesting a political conspiracy may have been linked to the attacks.
- Matters that were allegedly concealed by those in power at the time are now coming to light through ongoing investigations.
Concerns About Interference
The Archbishop alleged that certain groups are actively attempting to obstruct the investigations because they fear damage to their political image.
He claimed that efforts are being made through:
- Media campaigns,
- Public protests,
- Personal attacks,
- Attempts to influence judicial independence, and
- Intimidation of witnesses.
He described such actions as unacceptable and urged authorities to resist any political pressure.
Call for Justice
The Archbishop called on:
- The government,
- The Attorney General’s Department, and
- Security and investigative agencies
to continue pursuing the truth without fear or political interference.
He stated that individuals who have done nothing wrong should have no reason to fear investigations and should instead cooperate with efforts to uncover the truth.
He also appealed to anyone with additional information about the Easter Sunday attacks to come forward and assist the pursuit of justice, stressing the importance of courage and moral responsibility in revealing the truth.
