Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Wednesday Feb 25, 2026
Tuesday, 24 February 2026 04:34 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa
Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has spoken out after both the Oxford Union and the Cambridge Union withdrew invitations for him to address their debating societies, following objections from Tamil student groups and activists.
In a statement posted on social media, Rajapaksa said he regretted that the events could not proceed, attributing the cancellations to organised opposition.
“The traditions of the Oxford Union and the Cambridge Union have, for generations, represented the highest ideals of free inquiry, rigorous debate, and intellectual courage. Speakers invited to these historic forums are expected to face difficult questions, defend their views, and engage with opposing perspectives before an informed and critical audience. It was precisely this spirit of open dialogue that I looked forward to participating in and welcomed without reservation.
“It is therefore deeply unfortunate that circumstances arising from organised pressure prevented these engagements from taking place. Universities and debating societies have long been spaces where disagreement is addressed through discussion rather than disruption, and where ideas are challenged through argument rather than silenced by intimidation.
“I would have welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with critics, including those who strongly oppose my views, because meaningful reconciliation and progress can only emerge when differing perspectives meet in open conversation. Denying such engagement does not strengthen democracy. It weakens it by replacing debate with division.
“I remain grateful to both Unions for their invitation and understand the difficult position in which they found themselves. I hope that in the future we will have the opportunity to meet in a forum where dialogue prevails and discussion is encouraged,” Rajapaksa said.
