Melani Manel Perera

International Women’s Day was held amid great concern in Sri Lanka. No celebration till peace is what many women say. Meanwhile thousands of civilians flee the Batticaloa area as warring sides get ready to fight.

The 60th National Day of the Child is celebrated at Tewatte’s National Basilica; youths from all over the archdiocese of Colombo pray to Our Lady to bring peace, “true peace, the one children have never known.” For Archbishop Gomis, it is an opportunity “to pray as one family.”

The International Federation of Journalists has voiced alarm following the arrest of journalists who were critical of the government. A Sinhalese-language weekly Mawbima has been targeted. A director and young Tamil journalist have been arrested.

The Sinhalese president is in Beijing to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Eight bilateral accords were signed in different sectors. China is building the first, controversial coal-fired power station on the island and aims to contain the influence of the Indian giant in the region.

In a message the Episcopal Conference urges penitence and renewed vigour in the fight against evil in favour of peace. The memory of Christ crucified invites us not to tolerate injustices or show indifference before pain. Prayer and acts of devotion invoke a true and lasting peace for the country.

In Colombo, thousands of extremists marched to call for the abrogation of the ceasefire signed in 2002, which has been violated by both the government and the Tamil rebels. But the people are calling on the president to press ahead with the peace process.

Civil society groups slams the newly-appointed environment and natural resources minister, who suggested the possible use of illegal means against those who bring chaos to the country, namely Tamil rebels, journalists, peace and human rights activists.

During a meeting in Negombo, fishermen’s organizations from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka decided to put pressure on governments and trade unions to support ILO approval of a draft convention in June. The new norm grants the same rights to fishermen on small and big vessels.

The faithful were marking the national feast of Independence at the famous shrine dedicated to Mary. “It is our duty to pray for the country and for true freedom” said the pilgrims. Catholic leaders urged them to “open their hearts so God may listen to our prayers”.

One journalist was taken away last night by a group of men. Another fled abroad after receiving death threats. Press freedom organizations are calling for the release of a female journalist detained for weeks without charge.

Celebrations took place across the nation yesterday to mark the 59th anniversary of national Independence. In his address to the nation, the President said dialogue was possible only over demands for autonomy. He recalled his commitment to safeguarding national unity.

A statement published by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka calls on parties to the conflict to take the suffering of the people into account and to work together for peace, the only path that will lead to the development and wellbeing of the country.