Sobitha Thera And BBS Founding Leader Engage In Verbal Battle During Funeral Ceremony

An argument had occurred between Maduluwawe Sobitha Thera and BBS Founding Leader Kirama Wimalajothi Thera over the former's role as the Convener of the Movement for a Just Society. 

The argument, according to political sources, had occurred on the sidelines of funeral ceremony of the late Bellana Gnanawimala Thera which took place early this week. 

When Sobitha Thera arrived at the event, Wimalajothi Thera, who is the junior monk of the two, had stood from his seat as a sign of respect. At this point Sobhitha Thera had said there was no point in standing from the seat as the BBS was mercilessly attacking him.

In response, Wimalajothi Thera had stated that the BBS had nothing against Sobhitha Thera. "However, we don't like when the Saffron robe is used to serve the interests of NGOs," Wimalajothi Thera had said. 

This remark had irked Sobhitha Thera and he had attempted to defend his position saying he had no connection whatsoever with NGOs. A few minutes later, the senior monk had walked away from that place, saying he was unfairly criticized by the Founding Leader of the BBS. 

Wimalajothi Thera, who was previously dissatisfied with the conduct of the BBS, has now realigned himself with the hardcore Buddhist organization. The BBS, in the recent past, has strongly criticized Sobhitha Thera saying he is an "agent" of parties who have vested interests. 

Sobhitha Thera is presently the Convener of the Movement for a Just Society and is a strong advocate of the abolition of Executive Presidency.