Opposition leaders seek guidance from Malwatte Mahanayake Thera on national challenges

Leaders of the Joint Opposition visited the historic Malwatte Maha Viharaya on Saturday and called on Mahanayake of the Malwatte Chapter, Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Maha Nayaka Thera, to seek his blessings and discuss a range of pressing national issues. 
Among the leaders were former External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris , former Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe, former Power Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka and others. 
During the meeting, opposition representatives briefed the Mahanayake Thera on several challenges Sri Lanka is currently experiencing, including the ongoing foreign exchange crisis and its impact on the economy. They also raised concerns over the growing tax burden on the public, as well as issues relating to the independence of the judiciary and the legal system, which are essential facets of democracy. The delegation further highlighted the hardships faced by the public due to delays in repairing roads and infrastructure damaged by Cyclone Ditwah, and further discussed emerging challenges affecting Buddhism and its religious values. 
According to the Joint Opposition, the Mahanayake Thera offered guidance and shared his views on the measures required to steer the country towards stability and alleviate difficulties faced by the people.