Sampanthan’s remains to lie-in-state in Parliament on Wednesday

The remains of Tamil National Alliance leader R. Sampanthan will Lie-in-State in the Assembly Hall of Parliament from 2.00 pm to 4.00 pm on Wednesday for final respects, the Parliamentary Secretariat said. 

President Ranil Wickremesinghe is scheduled to make a statement regarding the implementation of foreign debt restructuring agreements tomorrow. The debate on the Resolution for the Implementation of External Debt Restructuring Agreements scheduled for tomorrow and the following day will not be held, the Committee on Parliamentary Business decided today.

Meanwhile, condolences poured in as the last rights of former Opposition Leader’s is currently being finalized by the family. Political leaders, politicians and diplomatic community expressed condolences on the passing away of veteran Tamil leader. 

President Ranil Wickremesinghe said: “I express my deepest condolences on the passing of Mr R. Sampanthan. As a national leader, he worked tirelessly to bridge the divisions in our country. His loss will be mourned across the nation,”

In a Twitter message, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said: “Today, we mourn the loss of Mr. Sampanthan, who served Sri Lanka for over half a century. His dedication to equal rights for all Sri Lankans is a beacon of hope. His fair and just leadership will continue to inspire me and many others. Truly, it is the end of an era.

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha said: “Deeply saddened at the demise of TNA leader Shri R. Sampanthan. Met & interacted with him on many occasions. He will be remembered for his seminal contribution to the Sri Lankan Tamil cause & for his goodwill towards India. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives Said: “Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of MP R. Sampanthan, a veteran Tamil politician who worked to create a cohesive, peaceful society within Sri Lanka. His advocacy for equal rights for minorities helped advance broader human rights for all Sri Lankan citizens, and encouraged unity. On behalf of the United States, I extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.”

UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka  Marc-André Franche said: The passing of veteran politician  @R_Sampanthan is a great loss for Sri Lanka For six decades, he championed equal rights for Tamils, striving to resolve legacy issues to push country towards development and progress. I extend my condolences to his family.”