Lasantha Wickrematunge Memorial Vigil held in Sri Lanka

Text and Pictures by Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai

A candle light vigil was held today evening at the same spot, where the Founding Editor of the Sunday Leader Lasantha Wickrematunge was brutally killed on the 8th of January 2009. Justice has not yet been delivered, although five years have just passed by.

Family members, friend, and colleagues gathered in Attidiya to pay tribute to late Lasantha Wickrematunge on his fifth death anniversary.

"We will overcome;
We will overcome  One day;
It is deep in our heart;
We do believe;
WE WILL OVERCOME ~ ONE DAY!" was sung in English, Sinhala and Tamil, while participants lit white candles, and cotton torches, and emotionally placed them in front of Lasantha's portrait.

The memorial vigil was organised by SAMAGI (Force for Unity).

Banner says it all

Candles are lit in a row in front of Lasantha Wickrematunge's portrait

Lasantha Wickrematunge's older brothers, and nieces are taking a closer look at his portrait

Lal Wickrematunge, older brother of Lasantha Wickrematunge is in silent thoughts during the vigil

 Banner at site

Activists Herman Kumara, and Dr. Nimalka Fernando participating at the vigil

Placing to remember

Spot on site

Vigil at night

Singing with light

Slain and Silenced

Lasantha Wickrematunge: Justice Delayed

Text and Pictures By Dushiyanthini Kanagasabapathipillai

Rays of sun breaking through at the grave site

Grave site decorated with fresh flowers, and candles

Lal Wickrematunge, older brother of Lasantha Wickrematunge is seen grieving at his brother's grave

Lasantha Wickrematunge’s fifth death anniversary was marked today. Family members, friends, and colleagues gathered at his grave site in Kanatte in the morning to pay tribute. His grave was decorated with pink, and off white lotus flowers, and other flowers. Pink and white candles, and incense sticks were lit. A memorial service too was held at the site.

Lasantha Wickrematunge was the Founding Editor of the Sunday Leader, and was killed by masked men on motorbikes, on the 8^th of January 2009, while he was on his way to work. A suspect has died under Police custody, while the other was released due to lack of evidence. Justice is yet to be delivered.

Lasantha Wickermatunge's brothers lighting candles to remember their beloved brother

Lit and placed to remember

During a memorial service

Emotionally singing at the site

Portrait of Lasantha Wickematunge at the site

Rest to Remember

"UNBOWED AND UNAFRAID"

Recalling and sharing their memories of Lasantha Wickrematunge