77th Independence Day Celebrations: Govt Announces Details

The 77th Independence Day celebrations have been arranged for February 4 at Independence Square in Colombo. 

Minister of Public Administration, A.H.M.H. Aberathne, confirmed this during a press conference at the Department of Government Information on January 30. He stated that the government has decided to open the event to the public, allowing more people to witness the celebrations in person. 

“Earlier, we had a question for whom the Independence Day celebrations were held. This time, the government has decided to celebrate it as the people’s Independence Day celebrations with more public participation,” said Minister Aberathne. 

The government has allocated Rs. 80 million for the celebrations. 

During the press briefing, the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha, shared details about changes to the Independence Day parade. He revealed that this year’s military parade will consist of 1,873 personnel, a reduction of 1,511 members compared to last year. 

“Only three Sri Lanka Air Force helicopters will be used during the celebrations, a reduction from the 9 helicopters used last year,” said Thuyacontha. He also confirmed that no armored vehicles from the tri-forces will participate in this year’s parade. 

Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuyacontha, however, stated that the Sri Lanka Navy’s mid-sea gun salute will take place as usual, as it is a tradition.