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