Panagoda: A formal farewell ceremony was held to mark the departure of the 25th Commander of the Army, General Lasantha Rodrigo RSP ndu psc IG, at the Regimental Headquarters of the Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI), Panagoda, on 31 July 2026. The event was marked with traditional military honours and was attended by senior military officials and troops.

According to Ministry of Defence – Sri Lanka, upon his arrival, the outgoing Commander of the Army, accompanied by a motorcade and riders, was received by Major General S.A.U.A. Solangaarachchi RSP ndc psc, Colonel of the Regiment of the Sri Lanka Light Infantry. In keeping with military traditions, the outgoing Commander reviewed the Guard Turnout presented by troops representing all regiments of the Sri Lanka Army.

The highlight of the ceremony was the formal parade conducted in honour of the outgoing Commander. Major General K. V. N. P. Premaratne RSP USP nps psc, Chief of Staff of the Sri Lanka Army and Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Artillery, welcomed the outgoing Commander of the Army. Thereafter, Major General M.J.R.S. Medagoda RSP USP ndc psc IG, Adjutant General of the Army, escorted him to the Saluting Dais. The Parade was commanded by Major General B.G.S. Fernando USP Hdmc psc, Commander, Security Forces (Central).

At the Commander’s office, the duties of the Commander of the Army were ceremonially handed over to Major General Nilantha Premaratne RSP USP nps psc of the Sri Lanka Artillery. A photograph of the outgoing Commander was also unveiled as a lasting tribute. The outgoing Commander subsequently penned his final remarks in the Visitors’ Book.

The ceremony concluded with a traditional Street Line Salute, where Principal Staff Officers, Directors, Senior Officers and Other Ranks assembled to bid farewell to the outgoing Commander. The resonant chants of ‘Jaya Sri, Jaya Sri’, symbolised the deep regard and admiration for a respected leader.

On the same evening, a traditional Mess Night was held at the Multi-Facility Complex, Maitland Place, to mark the conclusion of the tenure of the outgoing Commander of the Army.