Politicians oppose LGBTIQ tourism, urges president to halt project

Former Health Minister and medical professional Dr. Channa Jayasumana and Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa have voiced strong opposition to the government's decision to promote LGBTIQ-focused tourism and called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to immediately suspend the initiative warning it could undermine the country's cultural values and strain public health systems.

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In a letter to the President dated September 27, Dr. Jayasumana said that while he respects the dignity and orientation of all individuals, the project "poses serious cultural, social and public-health risks that have not been properly considered." He argued that Sri Lanka's identity-rooted in Buddhist principles and enriched by Hindu, Christian and Islamic traditions-should not be compromised for short-term economic gain.