In a shocking development, the Attorney General today withdrew an appeal filed against the acquittal of Bodu Bala Sena General Secretary Galagodaaththe Gnanasara Thera over causing damage to Christian church in Malabe, in 2007.

When the case was taken up earlier this week, the Deputy Solicitor General informed the Court of Appeal that the Attorney General has decided to withdraw the appeal against Ganasara Thera. 

The move seems to be a direct result of the discussion that took place between President Maithripala Sirisena and the Bodu Bala Sena monks earlier this week. 

The discussion took place after a group of Bodu Bala Sena monks protested in front of the Presidential Secretariat demanding the release of Gnaansara Thera who is currently serving a 06 years RI over contempt of court. 

At the discussion, Sirisena has also promised to discuss with the Attorney General the possibility to grant a presidential pardon to Gnanasara Thera.