In a statement shared on social media, Rajapaksa expressed disappointment that organised pressure prevented the debates from taking place. He emphasized that the historic unions have long represented “the highest ideals of free inquiry, rigorous debate, and intellectual courage,” and that he had welcomed the chance to engage with opposing perspectives in an informed setting.
“It is deeply unfortunate that circumstances arising from organised pressure prevented these engagements from taking place,” he said, adding that universities and debating societies should remain spaces where disagreement is addressed through discussion, not disruption, and where ideas are challenged through argument rather than silenced by intimidation.
Rajapaksa further stated that he would have welcomed direct engagement with critics, noting that “meaningful reconciliation and progress can only emerge when differing perspectives meet in open conversation. Denying such engagement does not strengthen democracy. It weakens it by replacing debate with division.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to both unions for their invitations and understanding of the difficult position they faced, adding: “I hope that in the future we will have the opportunity to meet in a forum where dialogue prevails and discussion is encouraged.”
