Let May 18 be a day of Honor, not Revenge or Amnesia

As Sri Lanka reflects on the significance of May 18, the Government must ensure that all future Victory Day commemorations are marked with dignity, truth, and national gratitude — not silence, distortion, or political bias.

This appeal is to set a consistent national standard going forward — to properly honor those who sacrificed and to preserve the historical truth for future generations.


Key Demands

1. President’s Presence Is Essential

The Commander-in-Chief must attend the main ceremony in person.

Victory Day is a national duty — not optional.

2. A Statesman-like, Non-Political Speech addressed to the Nation

·      Refer to all war heroes as “Ranaviruwo”, not just “soldiers”.

·      Name and thank: the 2009 President, Defense Secretary, Tri-Service & Field Commanders.

·      Tell the Truth: LTTE terrorism was defeated militarily after decades of failed peace.

·      Highlight the rescue of 300,000 civilians as a humanitarian triumph.

3. Protect Victory Day from Dilution

·      Do not rename, water down, or politicize May 18 with new politicized definitions

·      Reiterate that it was a victory over terrorism, not Tamils

Highlight that Sri Lanka’s Armed Forces saved & prevented Tamil children from being turned into LTTE Child Soldiers.

·      This truth must be reaffirmed & repeated yearly.

4. Nationwide Participation & Media Coverage

·      Schools, public institutions, and state media must formally mark the day with tributes, documentaries & stories of sacrifice

5. Respect & Recognize War Veterans (not LTTE Terrorists)

·      Legally recognize Victory Day.

·      Invite veterans and families of the fallen — treat them with dignity.

·      Give them a voice, not a token seat.

·      Ban display of ALL LTTE INSIGNIA – Mourning does not require terrorist symbols, flags or emblems


This Is Not a Celebration of War — It’s a Day of Liberation / Defeating Terrorism

Sri Lanka did not defeat a people. Sri Lanka defeated Terrorists & Terrorism.
Sri Lanka saved its people, including Tamils, from tyranny.

Let no activist, foreign lobby, or politician erase that truth.
Let Victory Day be remembered — with respect, truth, and unity.


To be submitted to: 

The President / Ministry of Defense / Tri-Forces Leadership / National Media /

Sri Lankan Embassies Worldwide

BY SW…

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