In a special video statement, Kumaratunga said many citizens who care deeply about the country are concerned by recent incidents involving Buddhist monks. She referred to reports of monks being arrested over alleged drug-related offences, as well as allegations that a chief incumbent had sexually abused a young girl over a period of two years.
She said such incidents have shaken the faith of many Buddhists and cautioned that a decline in public trust in religious institutions could have serious consequences for society, especially for the younger generation.
Mrs. Kumaratunga also expressed disappointment over what she described as the silence of political leaders on the issue, despite its significance.
The former President revealed that she had written to senior Buddhist prelates urging them to take the lead in introducing reforms within the Buddhist clergy. According to her, the proposal received a positive response, and she suggested establishing a committee comprising senior monks, civil society representatives, and leaders of other religious communities to recommend reforms.
She further called on the Government to introduce the necessary legal framework to implement the proposed recommendations, saying stronger mechanisms are needed to protect the Buddha Sasana and restore public confidence.
Mrs. Kumaratunga also urged the public not to remain silent in the face of wrongdoing, stressing that safeguarding religious institutions is a shared responsibility of both leaders and citizens.
