This opinion had been expressed by the former Army Commander Fonseka with regard to the private members motion that has been presented by UNP MP Wijedasa Rajapakse prohibiting clergy from getting into active politics. Fonseka had therefore informed the JHU leaders that restrictions could be imposed on the clergy should be set by themselves instead of lay persons.

Fonseka had made this point when a delegation from the JHU met him recently. He had also said any person should have the right to enter into politics.

Mr. Fonseka had also said his party will not give nominations to Buddhist monks.

JHU delegation had met the former army commander under its programme to educate all parties on the proposed Bill.

JHU delegation comprised Minister of Power and Energy Patali Champika Ranawaka, JHU Parliamentary Group Leader Venerable Atureliye Ratana Thera, Western Province minister of Environment Udaya Gammanpila and Nishantha Sri Waranasinghe. Meanwhile DNA MPs Arjuna Ranatunga and Tiran Allas joined Fonseka at the talks. However MP Ranatunga said they have explained the policies of their party and and thereby only told the JHU delegation that one cannot suppress another person’s right to engage in active politics. “We did not come out with anything elese during the discussion,” he said.

Source: Daily Mirror - Sri Lanka