Colombage Melani Manel Perera

“If we do not see justice for the victims of the Easter Sunday attacks, through a transparent investigation, by 21 April 2021, we will not only wear black, but we will invite people across the country to raise a black flag that day to show our strong opposition.”

Misheli Nethanya marked her 9th birthday by helping poor children as a gift. “I actually want to say to all my friends and to all Christian children who are my age that we, young ones, can make our Jesus happy.”

The PCol report points the finger at government leaders in office at the time, including the former prime minister and police chief. Despite warnings, they did not take the necessary steps to prevent the attacks. The report also calls for the ban of a radical Sinhalese Buddhist group (the BBS).

Catholics have protested over the slow pace of the investigation, possible cover-ups, and lack of compensation. Hundreds of people lost their lives in the premeditated attack, bemoans a leader of the silent protest. “We will not bow our heads” until justice is done, says prelate.

Bimshani Jasin Arachchi becomes a Deputy Inspector General (DIG). Some 33 of her male colleagues have challenged the appointment, petitioning the Supreme Court. The first hearing is scheduled for 18 May. A cross-party group of women MPs defends the choice, blaming male chauvinism for the opposition.

The Department of Health calls for tourists to be isolated. This is frustrating for drivers and sellers, who earn a living with foreigners. For them, it is “a new curse for the poor”.

In case the local justice fails, the prelate wants the International Criminal Court in The Hague to intervene. The Sri Lankan government is already under UN pressure over its handling of the conflict with Tamil separatists. Victims’ families back the cardinal’s initiative.

At a press conference, the cardinal appeals to the government to be vigilant. The situation is “very serious” and could undermine “religious harmony and national unity.” Religious movements that “do not have an administrative structure” need to be regulated.

Despite fewer participants because of COVID-19 restrictions, the memorial Mass was strongly felt. For Fr Priyantha, she shared “Christ’s suffering” without complaining. She prayed for the conversion of the father and brother. Students took part in a competition to promote knowledge about the future saint.

At least 25 future confirmands from the Young Christian Students group (YCS) have joined the initiative. For them, this is double challenge: learning the role of godparent and taking take care of nature as Pope Francis asked. For the priest, it is also a way to pry them away from technology and get them to rediscover the environment.

The authorities celebrated the event yesterday in Colombo with an impressive military parade. “I am the leader you have been looking for,” said President Rajapaksa. However, in the north, east and south people marched and protested against violence and abuses. Farmers go on a hunger strike. Protesters waved black flags to mourn on this day.

The auxiliary bishop of the capital led a Mass on Saturday to celebrated the station’s work. The event offered an opportunity to celebrate 35 years of marriage of its founders and owners. For Catholics, the broadcaster has been an important voice during the coronavirus lockdown. The bishop appeals to the faithful to support its activity.