Melani Manel Perera

Anglican bishop urges authorities to show evidence against ex General Fonseka, arrested on treason charges. Catholic bishop, Mgr Vianney, expresses faith in legal system and hope in the country’s reconstruction.

Catholic bishops pledge to heal the wounds left by 25 years of war, and help the wounded, widowed, displaced and disabled. The Justice and peace Commission and Caritas release a message for Lent.

The four Supreme Leaders invite Buddhist monks not remain silent in the face of the chaos which began after the arrest of General Fonseka by President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Convened on 18 February a special assembly of monks to discuss the current situation and contribute to the democratic progress of the country.

The faithful entrust their lives to Our Lady during the pilgrimage to the Marian shrine, after the war fought by the military and the Tamil Tiger. She is the symbol of “love and protection”. Mgr Gomis, archbishop emeritus of Colombo, led the Solemn Mass.

Rajapaksa dissolves parliament, calls for a general election on 8 April. He wants a two-third majority to control the country. Pro- and anti-government supporters clash in the capital. Christian leaders protest against vote rigging in the recent presidential election. Bishops call on politicians and ordinary citizens to “stop the violence”.

The opposition is outraged after General Fonseka is arrested, calling his detention a virtual abduction. He is accused of revealing to the public sensitive information and involvement in a murder plot against the life of President Rajapaksa. Many Sri Lankans condemn the arrest, plan to take part in protest demonstrations.

Yesterday, the funeral of Pastor Angelo Stefanizzi took place in Lewella, central Sri Lanka. The priest has spent 58 years in the island, working with farmers in the area. Provincial of the Jesuits: "a big heart and a profound education."

Political confrontation and accusations of rigging in the recent presidential elections tarnish the occasion. At 62 years after the end of British colonialism freedom of expression and equal rights for citizens, including the Tamil minority are lacking. AsiaNews has gathered the views of Catholic leaders, human rights activists and ordinary citizens.

The President’s Office describes the outcome as an “historic and resounding” victory, which shows the “vitality of our democracy”. Opposition parties complain about vote rigging and fraud. Catholic priest laments that “corruption and nepotism” rule the country. Rajapaksa plans to dissolve parliament and call a new general elections.

The army surrounds the hotel where the former army chief is barricaded, to prevent his escape. The Minister of Defense provides for the arrest of Fonseka. The outgoing president apparently has 60% of the votes, against 37% of General Fonseka. The Electoral Commission has not yet released official results, but tension increases the in the country.

Incumbent wins 57.9 per cent against 40.1 per cent for former chief of Defence Staff. For General Fonseka, the vote was rigged and must be annulled. He is holed up in a hotel, fearing he might be assassinated. Military claims it is seeking 400 deserters. Two people have died in clashes between opposing factions.

As expected, the two main contenders, incumbent President Rajapaksa and General Fonseka, lead the race. When the main challenger went to cast his own ballot, his name was not listed on the voter registry, but his candidacy is still legal. Vote in north and northeast could prove the decisive factor. Results are expected tomorrow.