Issuing a joint statement, the four chief monks said “Emerging in our country today is a peaceful environment where all ethnic and religious groups in the country can co-exist in unity.”

“This is also a time when new paths are beginning to open for the resolution of the ethnic crisis, and for the development of the country through good governance. None can condone at this juncture any private or politically motivated action which would be a hindrance to the wellbeing of the county,” it said.

The statement was signed by Ven. Udugama Sri Ratanapala Buddharakkhita Mahanayake Thera of Asgiriya Chapter, Ven. Tibbotuwawe Sri Siddhartha Sumangala Mahanayake Thera of Malwatte Chapter, Ven. Weweldeniye Medhalankara Mahanayake Thera of Ramanna Nikaya and Ven. Dawuldena Gnanissara Mahanayake Thera of Amarapura Maha Nikaya.