By. CSNA-Media Team
His Eminence Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith has called on the President and the government to immediately repeal the current constitution and introduce a new one to dismantle the existing corrupt system and establish true freedom in the country.
He emphasized that the unchecked power granted under the Presidential Constitution has been exploited by leaders, paving the way for a dictatorial system. This misuse of power, he stated, turned what could have been peacefully resolved national conflicts into war, leading to a terrifying state of affairs.
The Cardinal also highlighted how, since the 1990s, elected rulers have engaged in acts of suppression, including media censorship, the enforced disappearance of journalists, the infamous white van culture, and the imprisonment of political opponents. He described this descent into authoritarianism as a devastating blow to the country’s democracy.
Addressing the congregation, he stated:
“Governments formed after the people’s uprising often continued this pattern of governance driven by dictatorial madness. Since 1978, successive administrations have frequently wielded absolute power as they saw fit.
The most disgraceful of their actions has been the blatant manipulation of the legal system, suppressing courts and disregarding unfavourable rulings. Under the pretext of war, they abused their parliamentary authority without conscience, further entrenching the culture of terror.
The dictatorial constitution has been at the root of our nation’s crises. It has dealt a fatal blow to democracy, fostered a culture of fear and bloodshed, and allowed lawlessness to thrive. Therefore, it must be repealed immediately and replaced with a new constitution that unites all citizens as children of one mother, ensuring justice, transparency, and a renewed social and cultural foundation.”
Cardinal Malcolm made these remarks while delivering the special service at All Saints Church in Borella yesterday (04) in commemoration of the 77th Independence Day.