Protest Over Closure of P.D. Sirisena Stadium in Maligawatte

Opposition representatives of the Colombo Municipal Council have expressed their concerns over the temporary closure of the P.D. Sirisena Stadium in Maligawatte due to several meetings scheduled to be attended by the President.

Colombo Municipal Council Opposition Leader Rizak Sarook visited the stadium and expressed his concerns to the media regarding its continued closure.

He stated that the playground had remained closed for more than ten days due to a series of political meetings, depriving children in the surrounding area of access to one of their main recreational and sporting facilities.

Sarook pointed out that although previous heads of state had also held meetings at the venue, the stadium had never been closed for such an extended period.

He added that the Opposition had also raised its objections to the matter within the Municipal Council.

Colombo Municipal Councillor Riyas Kapoor also commented on the issue, emphasising the importance of promoting sports to protect children from drug-related problems.

He questioned where children in the area were expected to play when public sports facilities such as the P.D. Sirisena Stadium were closed for extended periods.