President’s Vision for Social Renewal and the Role of Maha Sangha
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake recently emphasized the critical role of the Maha Sangha in healing society and restoring moral values. His remarks were delivered during a significant religious ceremony at the historic Magul Maduwa (Audience Hall) in Kandy, where he presented the Scroll of Appointment (Sannas Pathra) to the Most Venerable Naranpanawe Ananda Nayake Thera, newly appointed Anunayake of the Asgiri Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya.
The President highlighted that while the government has taken on the task of rebuilding the nation’s collapsed economy, it is also committed to restoring a society that has deteriorated on many fronts. He stressed that the decisive steps taken by the government to end the dark rule that led to societal ruin through the drug trade and the power of arms will not be reversed under any circumstances.
The Dark Regime and Its Consequences
The devastating consequences of the previous regime are evident from recent events. Through drugs, illicit weapons, unlawful assets, amassed wealth, armed groups, and a youth culture willing to kill with firearms, a destructive social order was created. The President emphasized that this dark regime must be brought to an end, and the government is determined to fulfill its duty with strength and resolve.
However, to prevent such conditions from arising again through successive regimes, society must be purified and guided towards a new renaissance. In this endeavor, the Maha Sangha has been entrusted with a profound responsibility.
The Maha Sangha’s Role in Social Renewal
The President pointed out that the Maha Sangha has always played a major role in social renewal. Throughout history, whenever the state was challenged, it was the Maha Sangha that stepped forward in response. The President commended the service rendered by the Most Venerable Naranpanawe Ananda Nayake Thera, who is distinguished as a guardian of the Dhamma, a custodian of the Vinaya, and a pursuer of exemplary learning.
The President stated that the government intends to launch a national campaign to eradicate the drug menace from the country. In this effort, the Maha Sangha will have a significant role to play, particularly in traveling from village to village to raise awareness among the people.
Tourism and Cultural Heritage
The President reaffirmed that in developing the tourism sector, the government’s policy is to avoid doing anything harmful to the country. The goal is to build the tourism industry upon the nation’s historical heritage, natural beauty, wildlife reserves, and the world’s recognition of the warm hospitality of the Sri Lankan people.
At the ceremony, the President presented the Scroll of Appointment to the newly appointed Anunayake Thera, and in return, the newly appointed Anunayake Thero presented a commemorative gift to the President.
Challenges Facing Society and the Sasana
Speaking on the occasion, the President stated that the Venerable Naranpanawe Ananda Thera assumes this office at a time when both society and the Sasana are facing great challenges. He believes that the qualities of patience, compassion, and courage exhibited by the Anunayake will serve as a powerful source of strength in guiding the nation successfully on this journey.
The President noted that society is confronted with numerous crises. While rebuilding a collapsed economy is possible, restoring a society that has suffered deep moral degradation is far more difficult. People have become insensitive, failing to show empathy towards the suffering of others. Wealth and power have come to be regarded as the ultimate measure of right and wrong.
Re-establishing a Righteous Value System
What is needed now is the re-establishment of a righteous value system. Buddhism has always taught us a noble framework of values. However, this framework has been eroded, and a distorted value system has emerged in society. It is imperative that we re-establish within society a clear sense of what is right and good.
As a state, the government understands its responsibility in this regard and is committed to fulfilling it. Yet, in the task of healing society, the greatest role will fall upon the Maha Sangha.
Combating the Drug Menace
The President emphasized the urgent need to combat the drug menace, which is claiming the lives of millions of young people. He called on those involved in drug use and trafficking to cease these activities. This effort requires societal awakening, and the Maha Sangha is urged to lead this initiative, raising awareness and guiding communities at the village level.
Legal Protections and Spiritual Guidance
The President also addressed the need for legal protections for the Maha Sangha. He mentioned that amendments to Sections 41 and 42 of the Buddhist Temporalities Ordinance have been prepared and returned to the Mahanayaka Theros for their input. Following their guidance, the revisions have now been submitted to the Legal Draftsman’s Department. The law will soon be enacted, providing the legal protection required to maintain the discipline necessary for the perpetuation of the order.
However, legal protection alone is not enough. Today’s society requires the guidance of monks like the Most Venerable Naranpanawe Ananda Anunayake Thera, leaders with deep knowledge, extensive education, and decades of dedicated service.
Conclusion
In times of societal disturbance, the Mahanayaka Theras must actively intervene, offering advice and guidance. A government cannot function effectively based solely on the executive powers of the President and a parliamentary majority; it must represent all segments of society. The President reiterated that the government is fully prepared to uphold and respect the heritage of the Maha Sangha.
During discussions on the tourism industry, it was emphasized that historical heritage offers significant potential to strengthen this sector. Additionally, Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, its wildlife, and the hospitality of its people are crucial assets in promoting tourism. These factors, rather than trends alone, form the backbone of a successful tourism industry.
Regarding the Penal Code, although amendments prepared in advance were presented to Parliament, they have not yet been passed. The President mentioned that there is an opportunity to propose further amendments if necessary or to maintain the current provisions. These laws are not intended for personal gain; their focus is the common good.
The vision is to build a stronger and better state, a goal that can only be realized by recognizing and fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to the ruling party, with significant roles assigned to the Mahanayaka Theras.
