MP Namal Rajapaksa said the cancellation of his scheduled speaking engagements at the Oxford Union and the Cambridge Union followed organized pressure that prevented the events from taking place.
In a statement on X, Rajapaksa said the traditions of the two debating societies had long represented free inquiry, rigorous debate and intellectual engagement. He said he had looked forward to participating in discussions and facing questions from an informed audience.
The statement comes after Oxford Union cancelled a planned talk by SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa following backlash from Tamil student groups, days after the Cambridge Union withdrew its invitation citing security concerns over planned protests.
Rajapaksa said it was unfortunate that circumstances arising from organized pressure had led to the cancellation of the events. He noted that universities and debating forums have historically provided space for disagreement to be addressed through discussion rather than disruption.
He added that he would have welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with critics, including those who opposed his views, stating that reconciliation and progress require open dialogue.
Rajapaksa said he remained grateful for the invitations extended by both unions and expressed hope that a future opportunity would arise for dialogue in a forum that encourages discussion. (Newswire)