By Cardinal Ranjith Expresses Confidence in Ongoing Easter Sunday Investigation, Denounces Past Leadership
In a notable shift from his previous skepticism, Colombo Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith has expressed renewed confidence in the ongoing investigations into the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks, stating that the masterminds and “dark forces” behind the tragedy will soon be exposed.
The Cardinal made his remarks during the opening ceremony of a new Daham Pasala building at St. Anne’s Church in Kurana, Negombo, last week. This marks a significant change from his earlier doubts about the thoroughness and impartiality of investigations under the previous government.
For years, Cardinal Ranjith had voiced frustration over the perceived lack of transparency and accountability surrounding the Easter Sunday bombings, which claimed the lives of over 270 people and injured hundreds more. At the time, he had been critical of previous inquiries, alleging political interference that hindered efforts to uncover the full truth behind the attacks.
However, in his most recent statement, the Cardinal conveyed a sense of optimism, praising the new authorities for their commitment to a probe free from political manipulation. “It is now being revealed what corrupt, dreadful, vicious, and shocking activities the former leaders engaged in, solely to secure and cling to power, while neglecting the honest and genuine services they were supposed to provide to the people as leaders,” said Cardinal Ranjith. He emphasized that the truth of the Easter Sunday attacks, long obscured by a web of deceit, would soon come to light.
The Cardinal did not mince words when addressing the broader issues of political corruption in Sri Lanka. “For the past 76 years, a dirty, corrupt, and vicious political culture has been growing and consuming our society. Countless lives have been destroyed, lost, or disappeared due to this culture,” he stated, alluding to the darker aspects of the nation’s political history. His remarks were pointedly critical of the previous administration, which he accused of fostering a climate of impunity that allowed the attackers to carry out their devastating assault.
He continued, “Realizing this, the people rejected the former leaders. It is the responsibility of all citizens to work towards building our nation to ensure such situations are not repeated in the future.”
Scepticism to Optimism
Cardinal Ranjith’s comments represent a stark departure from the tone of scepticism he had previously expressed regarding the integrity of the investigation. His newfound confidence in the current efforts reflects a growing sense of hope that justice will finally be served for the victims and their families, and that the true perpetrators of the attacks will be brought to justice.
As the investigation into the Easter Sunday bombings moves forward, Cardinal Ranjith’s words resonate with many who have long sought closure and accountability for one of the most devastating events in Sri Lanka’s recent history. With the Cardinal’s renewed optimism, there is a sense that the country may finally be on the path to uncovering the full truth behind the tragedy—and holding those responsible to account.How ever stiil the public have not been informed bot the progress of the on going investigations.
