As of this morning (16), a group including Buddhist monks who joined the 'Justice for the Robe March for Freedom' (initiated by the Maha Sangha to demand the release of Ven. Galagodaatte Gnanasara Thero) are still stationed on the road in front of the Presidential Secretariat.
Upon arriving near the Presidential Secretariat yesterday afternoon (15), the Maha Sangha and the accompanying group emphasized that the government must provide a definitive response regarding the release of Gnanasara Thero.
In response, Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, stated that it is not possible to provide a definitive answer on the matter at this time.
Subsequently, the President’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Prabath Chandrakeerthi, arrived at the scene and joined the discussion with the assembled monks. He informed them that President Anura Dissanayake has been apprised of the monks' request. It is reported that the President expressed his agreement to proceed in accordance with the legal process stipulated by the provisions of the Constitution.
However, the Buddhist monks present at the time questioned the President’s Chief of Staff regarding the duration such a process would take.
As the official stated that a specific timeframe could not be provided, the monks and the others present decided to remain near the Presidential Secretariat until their objective is achieved.