Mrs. Bandaranaike, a true stateswoman - Chief Sanghanayake

Attanagalla Special Correspondent

Late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike was a true stateswoman who upheld democratic traditions wining the hearts of the oppressed, said Ven. Dr. Pannila Ananda Thera, Chief Sanghanayake of the Sivu Korala and Viharadipathi Attanagalla Raja Maha Viharaya at a Pinkama held at the Vihayara on Saturday to mark the 89th birth anniversary of late Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike.

Attanagalla members of the police Seva Vanitha Sanvidyanaya, and their families, in association with the Vihara Dayake Sabha organised the Pinkama. A Mal Pahan, Buddha Pooja and Dana for bhikkus was also held.

Ven. Dr. Ananda Thera said, Sirimavo Bandaranaike was not only the first woman Prime Minister in the world but, also a political leader who extended her efforts towards economic and political freedom in the third world countries.

She proved her mettle to the world when she chaired the conference of Non-Aligned countries in Colombo, the thera recalled. Her non aligned policy was highly respected by the countries in the region, the thera added.

He also remarked that as residents of Attanagalla, we should not forget the valuable service she had rendered to uplift the living conditions of the rural folk in the area. Today's politicians have a lot to learn from Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike, Ven. Dr. Ananda Thera concluded. Assistant Superintendent of Police, Attanagalla Jayanath Wijesekera and other police officers participated.