July 04, Colombo: Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa this afternoon paid his last respects to late Presidential Advisor on Islamic affairs, Al Haj Moulavi M.H.M. Niyas at his residence at Keselwatta in capital Colombo.

Niyas Moulavi, who was a Muslim leader well liked by all ethnic groups in the country, suffered a fatal hear attack this morning.

He has appeared in television and radio programs often to promote religious and ethnic harmony among the communities from all faiths and origins in Sri Lanka.

President Rajapaksa also paid last respects to Raymond Cooray, brother of Deputy Minister of Justice, Reginold Cooray this evening at his residence in Ratmalana.

(Pictures by Nalin Hewapathirana)