Monk Launches Fast Demanding Security for Mahinda Rajapaksa

Rathupaswala Théripähä Siridhamma Thero, a monk long known as a professional protester, began a hunger strike at noon today (8) in Tangalle, calling for the restoration of security for former President Mahinda Rajapaksa. The Thero commenced his fast near the D. S. Senanayake statue, in front of the Carlton residence, around 1.00 p.m.

He demanded that not only Mahinda Rajapaksa’s protection be reinstated, but also that the government ensure adequate security for all former presidents.

The protest follows controversy over the bullet-proof vehicle previously allocated for Mahinda’s use, which was recently returned. His lawyer later claimed that “Mahinda’s life is in danger.” However, the lawyer made this statement to the media without submitting a formal request to the authorities. Siridhamma Thero’s protest arises in this context, despite reports that about sixty personnel are still assigned to protect the former president.

More vehicles

Speaking in Parliament yesterday (7), Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananda Wijepala clarified that the Act governing privileges of former presidents does not automatically entitle them to official security vehicles. Nevertheless, he affirmed that the government is prepared to provide vehicles or other necessary measures if an official request is made.

Siridhamma Thero has gained public notoriety for a series of high-profile fasts. He previously staged a protest in front of the Rathupaswala factory and, during the 2022 Aragalaya movement, undertook a severe hunger strike demanding the resignation of both Gotabaya and Mahinda Rajapaksa. His current campaign, however, marks a reversal—fasting not to depose Mahinda, but to protect him.