New Defence Secretary pays homage to sacred relics

• Says ensuring National security is top priority

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) visited the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) in Kandy to pay homage to the sacred relics on Saturday (Sep 28, 2024). The Defence Secretary was received by the Diyawadana Nilame of the Dalada Maligawa, Nilanga Dela and was accompanied to the inner chamber for religious observances.

This is the new Secretary's first visit to the Dalada Maligawa since assuming office as the Defence Secretary on September 23 (2024).

After making religious observances and offerings, he obtained the blessings of the Maha Sangha.

While responding to a query by media personnel, Defence Secretary Thuyacontha said that he would take all steps to ensure national security. He noted that maintaining national security is our top priority and that required action would be taken to identify and address possible threats.

In response to a question on the renewal of the Gazette on Public Security Ordinance calling tri forces personnel to maintain Public order, he said that it is a routine procedure carried out by the President to ensure national security. Some social media reports have attempted to misinterpret this matter but it is done as routine action to ensure public security, he further said.