Campaign launched to seek presidential pardon for imprisoned monk Gnanasara Thera

A public petition campaign calling for presidential clemency for the imprisoned Buddhist monk Ven. Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera was formally commenced on Wednesday. The initiative, spearheaded by senior members of the Maha Sangha including Ven. Thiththagalle Anandasiri Thera, represents a coordinated effort to appeal for the monk's release.

Organizers have set an ambitious target of collecting five million signatures in support of the pardon request. The campaign is being concentrated in the Southern Province, where activities have already begun gathering public support for the petition.

Once the signature collection phase concludes, the completed petition is scheduled to be formally submitted to the President's office. The effort underscores growing religious and community interest in the case, with the Maha Sangha playing a leading role in mobilizing support for the imprisoned cleric.

The campaign comes amid ongoing discussions within Buddhist circles regarding Gnanasara Thera's detention and reflects concerns about his continued imprisonment among sections of Sri Lanka's religious establishment.