The Oxford Union has cancelled a scheduled speaking event featuring Namal Rajapaksa, an MP of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna, following objections from Tamil student groups and activists.
The Cambridge Union Society had earlier cancelled Rajapaksa’s appearance citing security concerns related to planned protests.
According to UK student newspaper Cherwell, Oxford Union President Katherine Yang said the decision was taken after concerns were raised about whether students could participate freely in the discussion.
She noted that many students closely connected to the subject felt unsafe asking questions openly, and that without equal participation the event would not achieve meaningful debate.
Rajapaksa, who is currently visiting the United Kingdom, earlier paid homage at the London Buddhist Vihara, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
Diaspora advocacy group Tamil Solidarity had urged both unions to cancel the events, arguing that providing Rajapaksa with a platform would amount to political rehabilitation. The group also warned that protests would be held if the events went ahead.
Tamil Solidarity, founded in 2009, campaigns on issues related to alleged war crimes, accountability and the rights of Tamil-speaking communities.
