The mounting pressure from the Catholic Church over the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks is pushing the government toward a major shake-up in its defence leadership. Deputy Minister of Defence, retired Major General Aruna Jayasekara, is now under intense scrutiny, with strong calls for his removal to ensure a fair and independent investigation.
However, reliable sources within the JVP, speaking on condition of anonymity, asserted that the government cannot function according to the demands of the Catholic Church alone, and claimed it is attempting to influence the broader structure of the state, which could have far-reaching consequences. Therefore, the party is expected to support the Deputy Minister of Defence in continuing his duties. At the same time, some key figures within the government are said to share views similar to those expressed by the Church.
The demand was strongly voiced by Father Rohan de Silva during an event held in Colombo, where a report titled “Memory, Pain and Hope, Seeking Justice After 07 Years” was launched. He emphasized that although investigations appear to be progressing after seven years, Jayasekara’s continued presence in office could undermine public confidence, particularly due to his role as Eastern Provincial Commander during the period of the attacks and related incidents.
The Catholic Church, supported by senior clergy including Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, has formally urged President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to take immediate action. The Church’s stance reflects its growing political influence, as it continues to use the Easter Sunday tragedy to demand accountability and structural changes within the government.
Amid these developments, government sources indicate that retired Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha is expected to replace Jayasekara as Deputy Minister of Defence, following anticipated parliamentary changes linked to Kumara Jayakody. However, the situation has been further complicated by a major setback in the appointment of a new Defence Secretary.
Former Army Commander Daya Ratnayake has reportedly refused to accept the position of Defence Secretary under the current circumstances, despite being a leading nominee backed by individuals close to the ruling party. His refusal has raised concerns about internal divisions and the government’s ability to stabilize key national security roles.
The Government should NOT ALLOW the Catholic Church to interfere in Government, to the extent of removing Government Officers without due process. The President should take action in this regard.