The Malwathu Maha Viharaya has announced that the Atamasthana Committee has decided to temporarily appoint Ethalawetunuwewe Gnanathilaka Thero to oversee the responsibilities of the Chief Prelate of the Atamasthana (Atamasthanadhipathi).
According to a statement issued by the Malwathu Maha Viharaya, Ven. Gnanathilaka Thero, who serves as the Chief Sanghanayaka of the North Central Province and Chief Incumbent of Ruwanwelisaya, will carry out the duties of the position on a temporary basis.
The statement further noted that the interim appointment will remain in effect until ongoing judicial proceedings involving Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thero are concluded and a final determination is made.
Ven. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thero, the Chief Sanghanayaka of Nuwara Kalaviya, is currently facing legal proceedings related to allegations that are under judicial review. The Atamasthana Committee stated that the temporary arrangement has been implemented to ensure the uninterrupted administration and religious activities of the Atamasthana during the period in which the case is being heard.
No further details regarding the judicial proceedings were provided in the statement. The committee emphasized that a final decision regarding the leadership position will be taken following the conclusion of the legal process and the issuance of a definitive ruling.
