The Jathika Hela Urumaya (often approximated in English as National Heritage Party) is a political party in Sri Lanka which is led by Buddhist monks. The JHU was launched in February, 2004 by the lay-based, secular Sinhala nationalist political party Sihala Urumaya. Founding members include Ellawela Medhananda Thero, Dr. Omalpe Sobhitha Thero and Athuraliye Ratana Thero. Some Sri Lankan Buddhists, including the All Island Clergy Organization, denounced the decision by monks to enter politics. However, the party drew some support from the middle class conservatives and the Buddhist youth.
Jathika Hela Urumaya - Mahanuwara Disawa (JHU Kandy) is the Kandy District Organization Of Jathika Hela Urumaya.
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