NPP Muslim MPs urged to address community concerns

A delegation from the National Shoora Council (NSC) held a constructive meeting with the Muslim Members of Parliament representing the ruling party on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, in Colombo.

The ruling party MPs included Deputy Speaker Dr Rizvie Salih, Deputy Minister of National Integration Muneer Mulaffer and all the ruling party Muslim MPs.

The delegation, led by NSC President M.M. Zuhair PC, included ten executive committee members of the NSC who expressed sincere appreciation for the opportunity to engage in dialogue and conveyed the concerns and aspirations of the Muslim community, particularly in the current socio-political climate. The meeting addressed several key national issues, including human rights, legislative reform, and the protection of minority interests.

The delegation highlighted the deepening concerns within the Muslim community over the absence of Muslim representation in the national Cabinet, which serves as the country’s key decision-making body. They noted that this exclusion has become the subject of serious and critical reflection within the community and stressed the urgent need to address it through inclusive governance.

The NSC delegation also highlighted several other issues of concern. Further, the NSC delegation reaffirmed the Muslim community’s unwavering commitment to national unity and territorial integrity, emphasising that Sri Lankan Muslims have never supported extremist, separatist, or divisive movements but have been time and again victimised by anti-Muslim racial conflicts. They also drew attention to the long-standing suffering of Muslims in the Northern and Eastern Provinces due to past ethnic conflicts and displacement, underscoring the need for continued attention and redress.

In a spirit of cooperation and national development, the NSC expressed its willingness to facilitate wider consultations with key segments and organisations within the Muslim community. This initiative aims to contribute meaningfully to the country’s progress while also working towards resolving specific concerns affecting the community.