Sajith Premadasa pays tribute to Lal Wijenayake, praises his commitment to judicial independence

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has paid tribute to Lal Wijenayake, highlighting his courage in defending judicial independence despite political differences.

In a statement shared on ‘X’, Premadasa recalled how he and Wijenayake stood together to defend the independence of the judiciary, despite representing opposing political sides.

“He was part of the ruling party. I stood in opposition. Yet, when it came to defending the independence of our judiciary, we found ourselves standing together,” Premadasa said.

The Opposition Leader noted that politics often encourages individuals to defend their own parties and oppose others, but Wijenayake demonstrated that certain principles transcend political divisions.

“In politics, we are often taught to stand with our own, defend our own and fight the other side. But Lal Wijenayake reminded us that there are things bigger than politics,” he stated.

Premadasa praised Wijenayake’s willingness to uphold his principles even when doing so meant going against his own political side.

“That is the kind of courage we must never take for granted. To do what you believe is right, even when it is uncomfortable, even when it goes against your own,” he said.

He further emphasised that while political power and positions are temporary, the courage to stand for justice leaves a lasting legacy.

“May we remember him not just for the life he lived, but for the lesson he leaves behind,” Premadasa added, extending his deepest condolences to Wijenayake’s family. (Newswire)