"Politics is Service, Not a Business": President Dissanayake at Diyatalawa Military Parade

DIYATALAWA – President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, called for a renewed sense of national responsibility and collective purpose during the 100th Commissioning Parade at the Sri Lanka Military Academy (SLMA) in Diyatalawa today (21).

The President emphasized that Sri Lanka can only progress by discarding suspicion and mistrust, urging all sectors—the government, the clergy, the security forces, and the citizenry—to fulfill their respective duties with unwavering determination.

A Historic Milestone This landmark ceremony marked the 100th parade of the SLMA, where 240 cadet officers, including 8 foreign nationals, were commissioned into the Sri Lanka Army after rigorous training. President Dissanayake inspected the parade, presented the Commissioning Swords, and awarded the President's Awards to the top-performing officers of various courses.

Redefining Political Culture Addressing the newly commissioned officers and their families, the President reiterated his commitment to systemic change. "The responsibility of the President and the Government is to rebuild the economy, establish the rule of law, and transform politics from a wealth-accumulating profession into a service-oriented vocation," he stated. He pledged that the state apparatus would be utilized solely for the betterment of the nation.

Commending the Military’s Role The President expressed deep gratitude to the Army for its service during national crises, specifically highlighting their recent heroic efforts in rescue and relief operations during the devastating "Cyclone Ditwah." He noted that the military's role extends beyond professional duty to a "sublime responsibility" of safeguarding the dignity and security of the people.

A Call to Reclaim National Pride Reflecting on the country’s history, the President remarked that while Sri Lanka possesses a glorious heritage, the nation has suffered significant setbacks in recent decades. He called on the new officers to uphold the honor established by their seniors and to help transform Sri Lanka into a state recognized globally for high values and integrity.

The event was attended by Deputy Minister of Defense Aruna Jayasekara, Secretary to the Ministry of Defense Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha, Army Commander Lieutenant General Lasantha Rodrigo, and other top brass of the security forces.