By Dayan Jayatilleka –
What at issue in this upcoming general election is most transparent and has been rendered so by the ruling party. It is the quest for a two-thirds majority so as to design a new Constitution by a process which is not reliant on smaller parties deemed extremist, and can roll-back the 19th and 13th amendments.
Every single idea contained in this contention is either questionable, illogical, false, dangerous or some mixture of all these. From my perspective, which is that of a political scientist, there isn’t a single merit—I almost said ‘virtue’—in the entire theme, idea and slogan. I say this as one who was similarly opposed to the UNP’s and TNA’s quest for a new Constitution in 2015-2019 as well as President Kumaratunga’s earlier venture beginning in 1995.
There is nothing in this country today and indeed in the last quarter-century that necessitated a new Constitution. The search for such a Constitution repeatedly proved a polarizing waste of time and political capital, resulting only in blowback. So it is today too.
This does not mean that the there is no requirement for reform of the Constitution. That however does not require either a wholly new Constitution or a two-thirds mandate for any party or coalition at an election.
Constitutional reform can be enacted by means of consensus arrived at through negotiations with all parliamentary political parties, either through a roundtable process or a select committee of parliament.
Take the 19th amendment. If it has to be amended, it can be done in the same manner as the 19th amendment was promulgated. The Government of the day did not have a two-thirds majority upon election. The 19th amendment was the result of a prolonged process of negotiation between political parties, chaired by President Maithripala Sirisena. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa could head up a similar process in order persuade all political parties to support changes to or of the 19th amendment.
What would one need a two-thirds majority at an election for when one could effect a convergence by persuasion after an election?
The answer that is provided is that the ruling party does not wish to be reliant for such a two-thirds majority on smaller “extremist” parties.
There are two problems with this argument. Firstly, from any objective point of view it is difficult to describe any party in parliament as extremist, though any party may be said to have parliamentarians who, at times, express views that are intemperate. It just won’t do to use the term extremist as a synonym for parliamentary parties of the ethnic or religious minorities.
Of course, this has happened before, with disastrous consequences. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the TULF led by Mr. Amirthalingam, the Leader of the Opposition, was deemed extremist and terrorist, by Minister Cyril Mathew. What he did as a solo voice is now the official discourse of the ruling party.
The dangers of targeting a parliamentary party of a minority community are two-fold: firstly, the rhetoric of demonization of the TULF fed into the anti-Tamil riots of July 1983. Secondly, the TULF was weakened, provoked to leave the parliamentary process and when the State needed a moderate Tamil interlocutor a few years later, there really wasn’t one to be found, or not one strong enough to carry the Tamil people with it.
The present government’s wish to have a constitution-making process untrammeled by the need to negotiate with not just the minority parties but even the mainstream (largely Southern) Opposition parties, is fraught with risk, given the experience of the island’s contemporary political history.
In 1972 and 1978, the SLFP-led United Front coalition as the UNP respectively won precisely such majorities in parliament. The crackdown in place of dialogue by the new government on the JVP—which had armed itself primitively in order to preempt what it perceived would be a seizure of power by the UNP Right, along the lines of Indonesia 1965—triggered the armed insurrection of April 1971 and the horrendous repression that followed. A government without the arrogance of a two-thirds majority would have sought to dialogue with the JVP which had supported it during the General election of 1970.
The two-thirds majority resulted in unilateralism in Constitution-making. The ignoring of the Tamil United Front’s (TUF) six-point letter to the Prime Minister was a dramatic case in point. While the autochthonous character of the Constitution and the promulgation of a Republic were decidedly positive, the safeguards for minorities provided by the Soulbury Constitution were scrapped, Sinhala was enshrined as the sole official language and Buddhism was accorded constitutional pre-eminence—which made the Tamil citizenry feel discriminated against. This would not have been possible had the Government been required to negotiate with the Tamil leaders instead of being capable of utilizing its steamroller majority.
It is in 1972, the year of the new, unilateral Constitution, that Tamil youth activists (including Vardarajahperumal) were arrested and incarcerated for hoisting black flags in protest. More importantly, it was also in 1972 that the Tamil New Tigers (TNT) was founded, as a direct result, and one may say corollary, of that unilateralist Constitution.
Today the ruling party wishes to downwardly revise the 13th amendment, and influential caucuses represented within the SLPP parliamentary slate even wish to turn the Provincial Councils into a collage of representatives of elected municipal level local authorities. This is a loud echo of the abolition with the promulgation of the 1972 Constitution, of the safeguards embedded in the Soulbury Constitution. Its consequences cannot be positive.
The next outing in unilateral constitution-making courtesy a two-thirds majority in parliament obtained directly at a general election was in 1978. There again, the basic decision was positive, namely the changeover from the Westminster model to that of a directly elected executive presidency. However, it was a hyper-centralized Presidency, without the separation of powers and checks-and-balances of the US Constitution. Dr. Colvin R. de Silva, writing in Mervyn de Silva’s Lanka Guardian magazine opined that that the Jayewardene Constitution went beyond the Gaullist Fifth Republic in the unchecked nature of executive power, quipping that it was “more [African dictator] Jean-Bedel Bokassa than Charles de Gaulle”.
This hyper-centralism was partially reversed by the 13th amendment of 1987 which devolved a reasonable measure of political power from the center to the periphery, but not before the unchecked presidency had been used to deprive Madam Bandaranaike of her civic rights, hold a referendum instead of the scheduled parliamentary election thereby postponing a general election by six years, unfairly proscribing the JVP, and unwittingly triggering or failing to suppress the anti-Tamil mini-pogrom of July 1983. The over-centralization of power of the 1978 Constitution provided the matrix for two civil wars, North and South, and foreign military intervention.
The Rajapaksa regime explicitly seeks a two-thirds majority so as to effect constitutional changes which combine the negatives of the 1972 and 1978 Constitutions while going beyond those negative in one respect, in that it seeks to dilute the devolution of power provided by the 13th amendment while re-centralizing the Presidency by abolishing the 19th amendment, and probably restoring the 18th amendment which abolished the two-term limit inscribed in the 1978 Jayewardene Constitution.
A fusion of the negative features of two unilateralist Constitutions powered by two-thirds majorities obtained at an election rather than through negotiation, cannot but result in some permutation and/or combination of the negative results of those features.
The simplistic argument that a two-thirds majority provides the stability necessary for development is simply dishonest. The island’s two experiences of and experiments with a two-thirds majority –and new Constitutions—were the most chronically and violently unstable periods of our history, with drastic impacts upon the economy.
Quite apart from striving to erect a political or state matrix that will prove utterly destabilizing because it closes off the system, hermetically sealing it and making it top-heavy, the chances of economic take-off will be crippled by the sheer wrong headedness of the economic philosophy itself. We are not only heading towards a combination of the structural or design flaws of the 1972 and 1978 Constitutions, we are already witnessing the adoption of a 1970s economic doctrine rather than the post-1977 Open economy doctrine that liberated the forces of growth.
The President has called for a drive for higher productivity and self-sufficiency now that stringent import controls have been put in place. This is exactly the wrong way to set about it, that is first imposing import controls and then exhorting and expecting domestic production to pick up the slack of both domestic demand and the export markets — instead of a gradualist policy of weaning away, aimed not at the chimera of import-substitution led growth but at a calibrated re-balancing.
A young LSE alumni and economic researcher, Ms. Sathya Karunarathne has made a persuasive critique of the “ban on imports leads to self-sufficiency” myth, tracking the negative impact on productivity and export earnings of the ban of imported items which are inputs for production both in the realm of raw materials as well as capital goods, pausing to focus on Harischandra Mills as a case study. She also provides rational alternatives and correctives to a policy which will prove a disaster if not re-thought and re-calibrated.
Far from a “V-shaped” recovery, the grossly erroneous economic paradigm that is now being adopted by the President, which will hobble both export-led industrialization as well as supply for the local markets, will almost certainly prove a recipe for low growth as in the 1970s, up to 1977. Obviously, no one has told the President that we have neither the factor-endowments nor a sufficiently large domestic market to sustain import-substitution industrialization (ISI) or agro-industrialization. With low growth comes high unemployment and low incomes, which leads to still lower growth as the market contracts.
With low growth, high unemployment and low incomes, comes social discontent and dissent, which, given the Task Forces and mentalities of those in them and driving them, will be met with repression, which in turns leads to resistance.
For shared reasons as well as for distinct ones, alienation and discontent will manifest itself both in South and North, as in the 1970s and 1980s. Hardly a scenario for stability.
rj1952 / July 17, 2020
Another well-written article by a 100% true blue Josephian a few years junior to me, who once again hit the power-greedy entire rajapuka clan where it will hurt them most on their balls and as for me I sincerely pray hopefully that it will be a one-shot fatal blow to get rid of these hora boru criminal maggots forever.
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The sad reality is that the entire gangster mob known to all as the crime oozing from their pores have to be castrated and then culled into oblivion. A quick painless vanishing act.
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If my ailing memory serves me right during the 2005/2015 era Mahindan Rajapuka was already serving his 2nd term as the executive president and as per the JRJ led UNP drafted constitution he could not serve a 3rd term.
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So this bright less cl-cheapo crook bought over for millions of now worthless rupees the prime of the UNP opposition members of parliament.
Then having the required 2/3rd majority he was able to contest greed saliva dripping 3rd term.
His dinner guest for hoppers at the people’s expense played a masterpiece of a coup and was able to strip him naked to his birthday suit. FULLY NAKED.
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leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
Pictures worth thousand words – reminded me instantly- as my paternal granny taught to us then. I really dont know why LANKENs let their spine be damaged by idiots this way. If Mafia boss would open his mouth, the level of his knowledge is evident even to the advanced levels students in a school. But these guys with doctorates to kneel down such personalities ?
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Please look at sharpely the manner how DJ or the like behaved then before MAFIA BOSS. Until few years ago, I behaved myself going by my elder sisters and brothers, but I then questioned why should I follow them any more ? I mean
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I am telling you – OUR people are world champions to EMULATE. Be it in religious context or others, they are masters. They would not question themselves twice – that mentality should not be continued anymore if we are at all to intend to achieve some progress.
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It is no right to compare average mind set of a developed country with that of our people. In ERUOPE, it is no easy to mislead through highly abusive TV channels even if srilanka is hugely caught by that mafia today. Be it DERANA TV or HIRU TV and their speculations as BREAKING NEWS items – to allow telecast from DAWN to DUSK along with
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
rj1952,
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Your comments would be much better if you had just one theme running through them all and if you used parliamentary language. I agree with the main point you are trying to make. Whatever reservations one may have with Dayan’s consistency, or rather lack of it, he uses language well.
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If lots of people unreservedly like your comments, it indicates imperfect education imparted in not only your school, but also in their schools.
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To make the main point that you seek to record it is hardly necessary for you to insult the entire Sri Lankan nation.
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Sinhala_Man / July 17, 2020
Excellent, Dr Daysn Jayatilleke.
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We’re so used to seeing things from you which defy common sense but which you theoretically justify using your stupendous knowledge and intellect, that I almost passed this by.
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Imagine my amazement when I read paragraphs after paragraph with which I could fully agree.
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So many thanks, for an this balanced article.
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Native Vedda / July 17, 2020
Sinhala_Man
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“Imagine my amazement when I read paragraphs after paragraph with which I could fully agree.”
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Hang on, we do not know his other 63 positions.
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Does his other positions (63) include the following:
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“So Mahinda Rajapaksa indubitably won the majority of the majority of the island’s citizens: 55% of 70%. He lost. The winner failed to win a majority of the majority. He won. To a great many, this structural asymmetry makes the mandate look and feel like a doughnut.” –
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BEYOND 50:50
January 18, 2015
By DR DAYAN JAYATILLEKA
http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=117904
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old codger / July 18, 2020
Native,
Dr. DJ types “we are already witnessing the adoption of a 1970s economic doctrine rather than the post-1977 Open economy doctrine that liberated the forces of growth.”
For an avowed Marxist and disciple of Fidel, don’t you think Dr.DJ’s profession of faith in the open market as opposed to Gota-ist protectionism is a little suspicious?
But then, DJ has never been noted for consistency, has he?
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Native Vedda / July 18, 2020
old codger
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You know I have been a keen observer of hypocrites, b***s carriers, racists, … Dayan is rated first among his equals.
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Dayan takes 64 positions all at the same time.
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“don’t you think Dr.DJ’s profession of faith in the open market as opposed to Gota-ist protectionism is a little suspicious?”
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It should be counted as Dayans one of the 63 positions.
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Lal de Mel / July 19, 2020
I agree with Dayan that there is no need for a two thirds majority to amend the Constitution. President Sirisena showed that the President has many trump cards, even after the 19th amendment. With the unique power arising from two brothers being the President and the Prime Minister, a two thirds majority is unnecessary and undesirable.
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leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
Dear Dr Sinnhala Man, I know you have not worked for a doctorate, but Let me permit to address you with the prefix for the very moment. Ther e are whole lot of idiots today, prefixed for no reasons – so why not you the kind of great humsn be prefixed ?
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You are spot on SM. I cant agree with you more. For the last few months DJ has been changing his nature again.
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This time towards us, who have always been fighting for srilankenness than sinhalaness. I dont even call me sinhalaya because I know right the moment – leaders in power are not our representatives.
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I will add you more over the weekend. I am so glad to see, DJ is back to his sense. Thanks very much DJ. You father would be happier if he knew how you are today.
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Just let say good bye to WIMAL BURUWANSE or the like rhetorics that almost metastasized the the society for all evil ends.
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Sinhala_Man / July 18, 2020
PART ONE
Dear leelagemalli,
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You have the purest of intentions, but please let’s not confuse people. Now even I’m getting confused. Please don’t dress me in borrowed robes; there’s too much of this. For instance, Ranil Wickremasinghe is an adequately educated person. He has forfeited our respect through the way he has acted. To question his knowledge is as absurd as referring to him (and Bandula Gunewardena) as though they have PhDs
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Dayan Jayatilleke certainly has knowledge, qualifications, ability and intelligence, but the fact is that we know him to be a tricky customer. On the other hand, if he now decides to start playing with a straight bat, let us welcome that. However, that can only be done if our own statements are such that they don’t mislead anybody? No Doctorates for me, please.
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leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
Dear SInhala man,
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I have the feeling I am being caught by a flu today. Or sometimes, I feel I will kick the bucket immaturely. Anyways, let s hope the best that COVID second wave would not come on us – with few more months to go with final trials of the potential vaccines against COVID-19.
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Btw, apologies if my thoughts of calling you with a Dr Title, made you that confused. Pardon, Pardon !
However, what I wanted readers to know is, only gentle way of exchanges the way you are upto could heal our society; outreach masses
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Media should work together with media experts.
Health ministry should and must work with specialists in the contagious medicine rather than placing the GMOA – murderers above the their place
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Ministry of education should work with university dons for respective sections
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If a leadership of a country would work like TOTAL IDIOTS, no doubt, things could run the way as it is today.
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See the populists came to power promising sun and moon but what have they achieved sofar for the people ?
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Nothing !
With Sky rocketed price hikes of the daily needs, how can the destitute people (40% of lanken population) could afford it today ?
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leelagemalli / July 19, 2020
Contd.
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Alone numerous allegations and the crime investigations on their shoulders are now no longer in process. Lawyers and their associations stay as if they are no different to the crocodiles fed with clay (කිඹුලන් මැටි ගිල දැමුවාක් මෙන්). Can we at all be called as a mid income earning nation ?
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Udayanga BP Wierathunga – a long searched INTERPOLE cirminal for MIG deal purchase is today on the POLITICAL stage.
(only because UW is a close relative to the vicious family).
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No legal actions against BOND BANK scam, I believe, it was no scam, but was a system error, that would not have been evitable even by invisible forces.
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We are forced these days to listen self glorifications of the BASTARD number one of the nation – none other than Mahinda Rajaakshe for a 2/3 majority.
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My gosh,.as if what they enjoyed by the end of 2014 was not 2/3 mandate inthe parliament…. we all noticed that was even beyond 66%. .. whom are they fooling again again ? He does think,that people are even stupdier than he ever guessedat. ???????
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I dont think the YOUTH – the decisive factor among the voters – floating voters, would vote for the buggers. I really dont think they are stupdier than appeared to be.
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
Dear leelagemalli,
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It is now my turn to pray for your well-being. Quite seriously, I’m sure that you are in greater risk of COVID-19 in Europe than we are in Sri Lanka. Besides which I know that your work entails a great deal of travelling. Let us sincerely hope that this virus is brought under control soon.
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On the other hand, the common cold has been around for a million years, I guess. We should not get so paranoid that every time we sneeze we fear this new virus. However, it does make sense to be prudent.
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While hoping that you get over this bout of flu quickly, it would enlighten us if you will tell us what happens when you report this to the Health Authorities in whatever country you are. Most of us who read the comments on CT (there are some people more productive and busy than us who read only the articles, not the comments) know you very well by now. It would be useful for us to compare your first-hand account of the Medical Services there.
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leelagemalli / July 19, 2020
Dear SM,
Very good morning ! An another sunny sunday is dawning to us as I read your kindest post.
Thanks very much for your hearted blessings. It can just be a common cold, due to the stress we go through these days- and please no need unnecessary anxities about my health, I am well connected with a panel of specialists if anything would go wrong with my health.
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Instead, you should be the one to take moree care of you- it is no worth walking miles to meet Sepala Amarasinghe or the like diehard men of Rajapakshes that make every effort to mislead the gullible crowds today.
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I really love your gentle nature and that alone seems healing me from my cold indeed. I usually work for new drug design and am well connected with health care issues than any average local professionals.
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
PART TWO
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And now somebody has asked me about this surprising video by Sepal Amerasinghe:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV-VtxNUXtM&feature=share
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The fact is that if you spoil your vote, you will be playing into the hands of the Rajapaksas. Their fanatical supporters will foolishly (maybe) vote for the “phottuwa”, while others will dissipate their vote by casting it for a variety of parties. It is upto the individual voter to do his homework, and vote for the best individuals, guided by their past performances, who will serve us faithfully. This is honest, sincere talk, which must be listened to carefully:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkwQHgeDFs8
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That is Handunetti analysing why they don’t get votes, although so many say that they are the people whom we need in Parliament. You’ve been recommending that effective speech by Hirunika Premachandra. Those are the performances that bring the votes in, but they are of little lasting value. This is mob oratory; haven’t you noticed all the promises being made? Even you want the price of petrol reduced. I agree that it’s good for us to be allowed to save some money than for it to be stolen.
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
PART THREE
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We want neither thefts nor gifts, do we? Let us provide fossil fuels at reasonable and stable rates within the country so that individuals can make intelligent choices relating to their transport needs. Far too many vehicles change hands. Who are now the wealthiest people in the country? Those controlling Finance Companies that seize the vehicles of the gullible. To help the villager, let’s promote mechanisms whereby a fair price is obtained by the farmer. These issues need careful realistic long term planning. Don’t let emotions decide. Properly run co-operatives are fine, but if they soon start don’t shun the privately-owned Supermarkets either.
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Let’s not imagine that we can plan everything. Let there be competition; it won’t be long before the individual consumer decides.
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However, the semi-educated consumer cannot be allowed to decide on complex subjects like the environment. I’ve told you that those Uva-Wellassa fellows appear to want to have the poor always there so that their supposed philanthropy will get publicised. Even worse are those like Rohan Johnpillai who want to to have people whom they can ridicule so as to boost their own egos; boasting about your alma mater is similar.
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Sinhala_Man / July 20, 2020
I find that I’ve not been clear about “privately-owned Supermarkets”. What I meant was for the purchasing of the produce of the farmers.
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Perhaps I wasn’t sure whether CT would allow the names of those chains to be used. The fact is that Cargills, Keels, etc, now have established networks in our outstation areas to collect the produce of farmers, and they are probably providing a fairer service to both the villager and the consumer.
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Co-operatives are fine, but they must compete with these other organisations. The consumer will decide where the best service is available.
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
PART FOUR
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Have I told you that about a month ago I walked roughly two kilometres (there and back) to the Bellanwila home of Sepal Amerasinghe, because he has succeeded in reaching an audience that we cannot? He was not at home, but I met his daughter and gave my card and the little gift that is customary when you try to make an important contact. But I have to give up the effort after seeing this latest video. His hidden agenda may even be to help the Rajapaksas.
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I don’t think that Sajith is the best leader. He’s old enough; he’s had sufficient exposure to education. Whether he failed to turn that into completed qualifications is not all that relevant. The SJB has much abler people to whom we should give our Preferences. That is not a suitable topic for electioneering at this moment. After the elections, it may be that the ablest people will rise to the top. Now, beware of people who ask for Preferences while running down their party!
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https://www.pressreader.com/sri-lanka/daily-mirror-sri-lanka/20200710/281891595568101
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That shows the dishonesty of Champika Ramanayake.
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leelagemalli / July 19, 2020
Dear SM,
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here you have made a mistake.
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He is called not Champika Ramanayake but ” Champika Ranawaka”.
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Not that Ranjan Ramanayaka would be blamed for no reasons.
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Thank you !, BLess.
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Sinhala_Man / July 20, 2020
Yes, thanks, LM. He’s Patali Champika Ranawaka. A very clever and intelligent man without doubt, but a man whom I will not trust much. Just read what is said there carefully.
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As for Ramanayake, this is how he is listed as Preference number 2 in the Gampaha list of the SJB with the Telephone as symbol. The full gazette may be listed elsewhere as well, but I just found it here:
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https://www.hirunews.lk/english/242650/candidates-preferential-numbers-released-gazette-notification-issued
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as
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A. A. Ranjan Leo Sylvester Ramanayake
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I think that all conscientious voters must make that download, and pass all that information on to other voters who are not as conscientious. It is not for us to tell people whom to vote for but it is necessary that we pass all that information on to others for them to make intelligent decisions. That is what democracy is all about.
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I fear that some of us are driving ourselves mad owing to our very concern about fairplay.
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
PART FIVE
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Ramanayake is an able but unscrupulous man who always wanted the control of a party. This is why we should first select the party – for me the SJB – and then cast our Preferences, not necessarily for the most high profile candidate. Some voters will inevitably want certain personal favours, so that will influence their decisions. We cannot stop that, so don’t try to. However, with one foot in the grave, I don’t need to take such things into account.
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Please also see what gets published here.
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https://www.lankaenews.com/
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That is a trilingual site that caters mainly to the Sinhala reader. That is what is now crucial – not old fellows like me operating in English.
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Some readers have by now established email links with me. We’re putting far too much on this site that doesn’t concern the average reader – wastes his time. So, last night I got a desperate message from a medical man who ought to know, that COVID-19 is out of control, do I know anybody who can present it to the public? He knows that I cannot!
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
PART SIX (a)
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This sombre comment is being made somewhat later than those that preceded it. The story from Kurunegala is shocking beyond words.
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https://www.newsfirst.lk/2020/07/18/demolition-of-kings-assembly-hall-in-kurunegala-stirs-protests/
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This unrehearsed seven minute video is heart-breaking. Listen to what is being said, spontaneously, in Sinhalese. Please view, even if you don’t understand Sinhala.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddKaRBphQkg
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This has before and after photographs:
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https://www.hirunews.lk/english/245731/the-royal-palace-of-king-buwanekabahu-ii-bulldozed-in-spite-of-complaints-to-the-police-photos
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Orders for this sacrilege had been issued by the man who has been the Mayor, [Thushara Sanjeewa, (SLPP)] since 29 March 2018.
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In this video you hear the Mayor smugly saying that this was “an unauthorised building”. That may be correct. King Buwanekabahu may not have obtained permission for the Kurunegala Municipal Council when he had this building constructed in the year 1300!
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https://www.hirunews.lk/english/245805/on-site-inspection-today-of-damaged-kings-assembly-hall-video
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http://www.themorning.lk/pm-appoints-committee-to-probe-demolition-of-a-13th-century-building-in-kurunegala/
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Stanley / July 19, 2020
Dear Sinhala_Man, all my life I have thought that cultural objects bought/looted from Sri Lanka and lying in Western museums should be returned. Some years ago I visited the museum in Colombo. The roof was leaking, there was mould growing on some exhibits, others had been stolen. I started to have doubts, perhaps these priceless artefacts would be safer for us and the World if they remained in the West. This final outrage has confirmed my doubts.
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The Chinese have exemplary punishments for anyone damaging public property. Their theory is that such a person is worse than the average thief because he is stealing from everybody. Perhaps we can learn something from them.
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Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
PART SIX (b)
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Some of the Youtubes provided are in Sinhalese, but I hope that all Tamil-speaking readers will follow all the links that I have given you. Please don’t hesitate to rub it into all of us Sinhalese (and trumpet this to the World). This must have been the way that Attila, the Hun, and Alaric the Goth treated the cultural artefacts that they found when they sacked the Roman Empire. What more proof does the World need that this is how you Tamils were treated during the Thirty-year Civil War? Please remember, however, that all soldiers are like this. That is why we must resoundingly say “no!” to militarism.
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Who knows, the way all this is going, the greens may be able to form the next Government. It would help immensely if all those who supported the UNP switched their votes the SJB.
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The LTTE, and at times the JVP, have taken to arms, but never did their leaders allow this sort of meaningless destruction to take place.
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Panini Edirisinhe (NIC 48 3111 444V) aka “Sinhala_Man”
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Stanley / July 20, 2020
This Mayor is the same thug who was remanded for armed robbery last year.
Just days into his job he bought a Rs 30m Jaguar. With this act of vandalism he is now ready to join the likes of Cyril Mathew and Mervyn Silva in our galaxy of heroes. He now has all the required qualifications to be an MP, Minister or even President.
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S. C. Pasqual / July 17, 2020
Mr. Panini Edirisinhe
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Voting is the most fundamental value of the democracy.
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Citizens have placed faith in democracy to determine the establishment, construction, and maintenance of their society.
It is people who have their voice in the leadership that guides their society, toward policies and laws that organize them in a way they choose it to be.
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Democracy in itself is to have the freedom to choose what to stand for, and the choice to practice that freedom.
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leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
SCP,
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they have no right to mislead the nation in the name of elections. If you know your mirror image well, you would not support the bastards.
:
Democracy is not only holding elections, but that is connected with various other rights.
:
Rajapkshes abuse power ONLY for grabing votes of the gaping/vulnerable people. Is that no different from far poor african leaders that would do anything any everyhting tiwsting the easy mindset of their people.
–
Go to UVA province and see how much poverty is striking in that part of the island. Rapajskshe waste millions for their own maintenance not ven thinking twice about the funds which they have been wasting are people’s taxes.
/
Native Vedda / July 17, 2020
S. C. Passqual
–
“Democracy in itself is to have the freedom to choose what to stand for, and the choice to practice that freedom.”
–
The voters are supposed to make informed choices.
I doubt the stupid people ever chose anyone on the merit of the candidate, with good character, wisdom, ability, ……. believer in Ahimsa, …..
–
In fact in the last elections voters (majority of the majority) chose a serial killer, a mad butcher, .. sadist,….
/
Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
Part B
.
Many more versions obviously, some with better sound, but that, dubbed in two languages seemed appropriate. We have two Swabashas, and we have allowed them to divide us. For most Sri Lankans this music is an acquired taste, but listening to this we should count our blessings.
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkQapdgAa7o
.
Warning, that is 72 minutes, the maximum length of a CD. I’ve been told that the owner of Sony (the company that pioneered that technology) stipulated that it should be possible to fit this entire symphony on to it. Yet, surely more important than all that is the fact that the man who wrote all that music never heard it himself – because he had become stone deaf by then.
.
https://interlude.hk/beethoven-9th-symphony-premiered-today-1824/
.
Let us teach these things to the growing generations rather than allow the likes of Gnanasara and Weerawansa to spread hatred.
.
One of those 3-minute performances segued on to this:
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jy6AOGRsR80
.
We learnt it as kids, as “John Brown’s body lies a mouldering in the grave”:
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jso1YRQnpCI
.
I have heard fellow English teachers reducing it to “JB’s baby has a pimple on his nose.” What to do?
/
Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
Dear SCP,
.
Please see for yourself how the Mayor of Kurunegala, Thushara Sanjeewa, (SLPP) since 29 March 2018, has used “the choice to practice that freedom.”
.
Pasqual, I know that you don’t approve, and I don’t hold you responsible. I also know, that outraged as we may be, we have to work within the system.
.
Prabhakaran’s LTTE had to be tamed, somehow, and Gota did it. With help from many others, obviously. We’re glad that all that is now past.
.
I may be a bit of a masochist, but I will always be asking, “to what extent did we, Sinhalese, create the conditions for the LTTE to garner all that support from the Tamil people.”
.
I’m not going to find fault with “the Tamil Community” for provoking our hot heads (well, if you look at the video, the Kurunegala Mayor, shockingly, remains cool). It is upto Tamils to figure that out.
.
I’m old. Every passing day, atheism becomes clearer to me. But we have a manner of speaking: “May the Heavens forgive us for what we are doing.” Art moves us. So the assertions made here can still be understood by me:
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbBdob3hbXc
/
Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
Part B
.
Many more versions obviously, some with better sound, but that, dubbed in two languages seemed appropriate. We have two Swabashas, and we have allowed them to divide us. For most Sri Lankans this music is an acquired taste, but listening to this we should count our blessings.
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkQapdgAa7o
.
Warning, that is 72 minutes, the maximum length of a CD. I’ve been told that the owner of Sony (the company that pioneered that technology) stipulated that it should be possible to fit this entire symphony on to it. Yet, surely more important than all that is the fact that the man who wrote all that music never heard it himself – because he had become stone deaf by then.
.
https://interlude.hk/beethoven-9th-symphony-premiered-today-1824/
.
Let us teach these things to the growing generations rather than allow the likes of Gnanasara and Weerawansa to spread hatred.
.
One of those 3-minute performances segued on to this:
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jy6AOGRsR80
.
We learnt it as kids, as “John Brown’s body lies a mouldering in the grave”:
.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jso1YRQnpCI
.
I have heard fellow English teachers reducing it to “JB’s baby has a pimple on his nose.” What to do?
/
Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
Part C
.
I’m no historian! Those could well have been the actual words that they sang. John Brown was a real guy. A giant of a man, probably quite mad in his desire to free slaves. His earthly (I have no belief in anything heavenly!) reward was getting hanged.
.
Another sobering thought is that we still have to assert that “Black Lives Matter” as the Peratugami guys (The Frontline Socialist Party led by Kumar Guneratnam) tried to tell us in Colpetty one recent day, in front of the American Embassy. We slander where we please, don’t we? I will never really believe that it is the FSP that organises the brutal ragging in Universities. They have some sort of Philosophy (based on Marx, whom I never tried to understand).
.
Also, even after that, the Americans slaughtered the Native Americans. So, we, Sinhalese are not alone in this business of genocide, but let us face upto the truth.
.
The FSP is contesting in most Districts – I won’t be surprised if it is in all. But not even a National List M.P. We have to be hard-headed nuts when we vote on the 5th of August. Me, for the SJB, for all its faults and Sajith hardly inspires me.
/
Sinhala_Man / July 22, 2020
Pasqual, you are not on our side.
.
Your platitudes are designed to mislead our “innocent supporters”.
.
Got and the SLPP mislead. They terrorise all of us who voice opposition. I know that even I am in danger. Please don’t think that I don’t realise it.
.
You smile at me. Which Shakespearean character said, “A man may smile and smile, and still be a villain”? When? Of whom?
.
I’m sorry that I have to treat you as a trap-laying villain.
/
Bernard / July 17, 2020
All well and good Dayan, but will you do a right about turn if the President offers you Russia again? No offense meant, just asking..
/
leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
Bernard,
Dear, I dont think so.i have the feeling he is now matured. I think he has now learnt a lot. May be now he feels that ticks hurt him lot today.
–
Dr DJ and Thamara and few others should work hard for giving their diplomatic knowledge to the young generation. If they would not do it, the country will be in a mess in the years to come. Any senior professional should be well aware of this.
–
Under brutal brother DUO, even FISHMONGERs, SOIL DIGGERS, TEA TASTERS or the like men would have more chances to become diplomats. We know it how they did it until 2015 right ?
/
Nathan / July 17, 2020
leelagemalli, Be cautious with your optimism. It could come back to bite you!
/
leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
Dear DJ,
thank you for your clear stand against 2/3 mandate in parliament.
To my knowledge you summersaulted backward during the last few years being more partial to the barbarians than to the opposite. Now you seem to be getting back slowly – which is a good sign to srilanken democracy and for people’s demo rights.
:
May also be we did not understand you recent years. Your profile is idiosyncratic to you. But I would like to call a spade a spade when it is necessary.
:
The following two steps you taken in terms of sl politics should be respected by anyone with some sanity.
.
Your articles pronounced it well, not to treat the International community to the way Rajaakshes are upto, even if they criticise us the srilanken to stay in contact with them. That is very right because that is why EU, America, Australia and others expect from us srilankens. But as you understood it by end of 2014, your mafia boss – Mahinda Raja ‘s mlechcha politics almost destroy deplomatic ties with any powerful nations. It was just because he lacks the -sure instinct, comparably similar to that of Trump.
.
Then now again your clear stand against 2/3 mandate in parliament – is a good step to the eyes of even 10 year olds that respect democratic rights.
/
S. C. Pasqual / July 17, 2020
Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka,
.
Your article itself justify the requirement for 2/3 majority.
.
Yes you are correct.
.
“””The 19th amendment was the result of a prolonged process of negotiation between political parties, chaired by President Maithripala Sirisena”””
.
Do you agree that end result is a disaster….
You yourself is agreeing that it has to be changed.
.
People of this country going to give 2/3 or more to GR in next general election.
.
GR and people he appoint will have a free hand to change and govern this country for next decade.
/
leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
SCP,
nice to see you back on this thread, hope you are recovering from your gender OP.
.
Let me remind you now
–
1) Prior to 2015 – what had MaRa et al been enjoying – was that not 2/3 mandate in the parliament ?
.
2) After 2015 – with 19 Amendement being passed with over 99% votes in the parliament – parliament was empowered. …
.
So now we have the results before us
.
1) Bitch s sons that looted the state to the core (prior to 2015) is now blocked in a manner that they cant do things the way the did prior to 2015.
.
And that is why they hav ebeen asking for an another chance for 2/3 but this time with a man, whose FAKE profile is made as the public percepton for the survival of Rajaakakshe kingdom or not ?
.
2) Why DJ or the like ones whose nature was not clear to us is changing their attitudues to their GOD FATHER’s today ?
.
3) If Ms/Mr SCP is taking montisori lessions these days, while being hospitalized for his surgeries, … you can still learn the basics .. that could nevertheless be a plus to srilanken nation whose majority would remain as ETERNAL PUNNAKKU eaters.
/
S. C. Pasqual / July 17, 2020
Mr. leela ge …..
.
I have better things to do in life rather than always correcting you IDIOTS my dear.
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
We wish we could know your better things ?
–
Cleaning Medamulana toilets ?
.
Or holding torchs to them ?
:
A low life of your nature would not deserve anything better.
:
Divine forces will converge to stand against Rajapkashe criminals for sure. Jaya niyathayi !
/
Sinhala_Man / July 19, 2020
Dear S. C. Pasqual,
.
It is easy enough for you to retort to my “friend” “leelagemalli”. I know him only through CT comments; if he were to send me his email address (as rj1952 did), I could correct “leelage” (LM hereafter) myself. Even without being in direct touch, I know him to be utterly sincere (but may be a bit naive).
.
From your point of view, there may be justification in your refusal to make a detailed response to LM. I hope that LM takes note of the fact that I haven’t exactly leapt to his defence. That is because he has brought in irrelevancies and used unnecessarily emotive language. After that, he has turned abusive. Yes, I have to educate him a little, and I shall do so because of his absolute sincerity.
.
Dr. Razia Pendse? Maybe. You are cherry-picking, aren’t you? I have myself told LM that I’m safer from COVID-19 in Uva than he is in Europe. Yes, owing to dictatorial action, albeit somewhat inconsistent.
.
Where’s your response to my far better thought out question about King Buwanekabahu? You may ignore my foray into Western Music, but not Kurunegala, please.
/
leelagemalli / July 19, 2020
Dearest SM,
:
I think you have got me fully wrong. I am not naive as you feel, but I think some of the commenters to this page behave that naive.
–
For your note, please check the information on Worldometer: That will help you all equally with the updated info about COVID statistics. There are even far poor coutnries that score less than 11 deaths – so self congradulations of SL leaders are just redundant.
:
My response to SCP was not decent – I am really sorry for that. SCP has always attacked us as ” idiots”: That I think is not at all a match. For my serious faux pas, I apologize the CT readers.
Anyways, I will not add filthy langauge whenver I respond to anyone from now on.
/
Sinhala_Man / July 20, 2020
Dear LM,
.
I’m sorry that I sometimes unwittingly hurt you. Well, let the naivety remain for now: even I’m that in certain matters. It’s not so much a lack of intelligence, but being too trusting. Your concern for the poor of Uva is real and touching, but I feel that we must not take a condescending attitude to them. We must enable them to be independent. You know that distinction between giving a hungry man a fish (necessary as immediate help, without a doubt) and teaching him how to catch fish.
.
In the above instance, you’ve started off by being extra polite to Pasqual, but he’s been rude to you. That was not nice of him, but he didn’t really hurt himself.
.
You are the more decent man, but you have hurt yourself by using what you term as filthy language.
/
leelagemalli / July 21, 2020
Dear SM,
–
I have the feeling MaRa Administration seem to have done nothing to UVA province. They the media men, though repeat that there are no polathu huts in the country, but social media clips reveal today the other way around. I think not only in UVA, but also in north and south provinces are filled with enough destitute people. State wealth is robed out by them while pushing the poor from frying pan to the fire. This is why I always thought, that Rajaakshes doctored the statistics misleading the easy targets by feeding them with untruths. There are whole lot of evidence them to have looted unestimable volumes over the years. None of his sons work today but live like PRINCE charles how come? My elders shared us that Beliatthe rascals were not wealth people as far back 90ties.
–
Tell me how can anyone be independent if they have not the basic facilities ? May be those YOUTUBERs market poverty for their selfish gains, but that is common nature of most down there right ? But these peoples get atleast someting by being able to expose their poverty levels.
/
leelagemalli / July 21, 2020
to be contd.
:
SM@
See how many of them live under poverty in that part of srilanka ? Those youtubers that bring videos may not be 100% authentic, but I think they revealed enough untold stories of the destitute people.
–
I dont mind anyone of Pasqual nature would add anything calling us ” idiots”. But the truths will succeed one day. I am very sad these men would not grasp it yet today.
.
Btw, your prayers should have worked well. I am feeling much better. I thank you once again.
–
I will be travelling next few days to Northern Europe and may be I wont be able to add my comments as usual. Next time travelling to lanka, I would love to come and see you. But due to some security reasons, I dont want to add any further info about our meeting here. I think you should also think twice before adding your pvt details on CT or other forums. Never forget, the era dawned is not comparable to what you guys experienced under good governance. They rajapakshes could hunt you to the very same manner they attack Prof. Hoole these days. Never understimate, that we are now ruled by alleged high criminals.
/
Sinhala_Man / July 22, 2020
Most of what you say is true – and you are unambiguously on our side.
.
The validity of my observations remain true.
.
Why don’t you email me? Then I can tell you something like this: “See the improvement in rj1952”. It is bad for me to say that in public. I’m subtly insulting Rohan. I’m acting superior to Rohan. It is boring for us all.
.
Kindness can sometimes be misplaced.
/
leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
SCP,
.
wait and see, not even 80 seats would have been given tot hem. People are silent and they are no stupid as appeared to be.
–
Alone the issue with sky rocketed price hikes in daily needs would not allow bitch s sones to get elected and go for another KIRIBATH eating streets sessions.
/
S. C. Pasqual / July 17, 2020
Mr. leela ge …..
.
“””””Sri Lanka, fortunately, had been one of the few countries with even modest means that has been able to control the epidemic more effectively than the even more resourced countries””””
.
Dr. Razia Pendse.
Country Representative
World Health Organisation (WHO).
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
SCP,
.
stupid men of your nature even thought, that less numbers of the infected/deaths were connected to the proper containment of the virus from the spread.
:
But the status is similar to even those who belong tot he far poor countries.. neverthless you total ignorance or lack of knowledge did not allow you to trust the facts.
:
Youth are well aware of the facts, that srilanken leadership did not perform enough PCR tests at the begining, nor had they given enough facitlities to the guarding soldiers.
:
But the guys that are remote controlled by Rajaakshes mafia, you the ilk would not agree with the facts.
You guys may yet be thinking that YOU ARE THE MASTERs of having CONTROLLED the virus, but all these lies would NOT remain forever. Idiots ! Get the facts right and work for the containment ! Thanks.
/
Native Vedda / July 21, 2020
S. C. Pasqual
–
Stupid man, tell us how many entry/exit points does Sri Lanka has for overseas travel?
–
Gota has not yet accounted for the 1000 that he grabbed from ICRC.
/
Native Vedda / July 18, 2020
S. C. Paasqual
–
I am bored with your recycled nonsense.
Could we talk about Graphene, Carbon Carbon, Powdered silk, Solar Tsunami, Harry Potter Kano Coding Kit, Dark Matter, Gray Matter or absence of it, Face Transplant, Head Transplant, ……………
/
Kuviyam / July 17, 2020
A two-third majority is the death nail to democracy. When you statically look at the number of minority group voters and to get a two-third majority even if 50 percent of majority singhala community voters vote for two-third majority it will not happen
/
leelagemalli / July 17, 2020
Mr Kuviyam,
you have always been right. We respect your thoguhts. It is indeed a nail to democracy.
:
Those people that suffered a lot by dictatorships today move forward while our total ignorant stupid people say hai hui… to Dictatorships. It is more or less like paving the way self-immolation be part of our society.
.
I dont hope that 50% of sinhala would agree with their 2/3. … last time, they were misled by various tricks being played on them. I dont think the youth would support current men again. Those who are computer literate as of now are not even 30%. Most of them own their smart phone connections for their imporvement of awareness. Howver, not much is ciruclated on the subject in their social media next works yet today, so it wii not help much towards the proper awareness.
/
Kuviyam / July 18, 2020
leelagemalli
I read your comments. Social media, Country’s economic situation, Ethnic unity, Corruption free government, Support from the expatriate population, and support from the international community plays a vital part in deciding. the fate of the country We Sri Lankans cannot live like frogs in a well guided by religious leaders I am sure the voters especially youth will not promote the family dynasty which leade to corruption, Drug trafficking, and gangsterism. The two-third majority will lead to victimization as happened during JR’s time. when Srimavo lost her citizenship for short period The Public sector is at low ebb due to unwanted criticism from the president. The private sector is badly affected due to unemployment’s lack of investors. Our Middle Eastern labor market is affected due to discriminatory policy aginst Muslims Many educated professionals tend to mitigate to other countries, We had high brain drain after repeated commual riots. Those talented Sri Lankans who migrated built the economy of the country’s where they migrated. more than everything the respect the vaue for Huumnrights in Si Lanak has almost vanished and Politics infiltated ino Judiciary and Police
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
K@
You are dead right.
.
Not only those labour exported to Middle east, but those in Italy and SKorea are highly affected.
:
Those skilled workers are speechless the manner how irresponsible is the ruling govt toward them. Above all those uneducated people exported to Middle east and their permament cryings are being telecasted through social media today. Most seems to have nothing to eat, or a place to sleep. They have no privacy at all, the issue is becoming painful to them and the country on long term. If said, 10 billions or more they earned for the country, would not be not even 1 million these days and their thoughts and minds towards their home country is also totally changed.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZ2CA2Va8zQ
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=086BZYhpj5s
/
Hora Harvadian / July 17, 2020
This is utter nonsense, written by a Josephian or not! Bet he is not claiming Harvard and Cornell degrees. Therefore forgiven.
/
Addressing the real issue, the present need for Sri Lanka is to revert the damage caused by s19A that was introduced merely to prevent the president sacking Ranil in the last regime. (Ironicaly, it still happened). S19A made the president-PM combination unworkable and its repeal is urgently needed. The damaging results of S13 is there for everyone to see, except for its Colombo Tamil beneficiaries like Vigneswaran and Sumanthiran.
/
Due to this reason, the amendment the PPP is seeking will stabilise the administration, rather than destibilising as suggested here.
/
May be Dayan J also will have to claim double Harvard and Cornell degrees, like his nemesis who had a clash with him with the help os the father! Respect hi for not being devious like that cad.
/
GATAM / July 17, 2020
Pol Pot will look small if Rajapaksas get 2/3 again.
God forbid!
Dayan must take the message to ordinary Sri Lankans far and wide.
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
GATAM,
.
I think coming colour is no good to Rajaakshe Mantra. I am gathering my info through WHATSUP for my own, there what is becoming clear ot me, is the youth – the floating voters would make it change.
:
The very same voters would not be tamed by sweet toffee once again. Now with SIVURU wearing skin heads being thrown to silent mode, there is more space the truths be outreached to the masses.
:
In srilanken society, truths would not traverse through the society to the manner an X-rays would do – in contrary to that, Gossps filled with SHARP SINHALA Rhetorics with filled with untruths go viral. It is all because the MEDIA mafia men stand on the way.
:
Hiru and Derana TV owners are like KING flies in the faecal pits. Assume srilankensociety is rotten to all levles, simialr to GARBAGE dumps covered with a layer of an icing… but the symbiosis of POLITICIANS and THEIR HIGHLY ABUISVE media coverages keep their ball moving for their selfish gains.
/
GATAM / July 18, 2020
True the tide is turning. Incompetence of Rajapaksas is all to see. They are virtually zombies just hanging in there to usher in their next generation of looters. The military is the most shameless. They prop up this rotten regime.
Rajapaksas will start their killings immediately after the election. They are no strangers to killing. When things go wrong by 2024 they will pit ethnic groups against each other.
Christians have the critical mass to Gota in 2019. If not for them Sajith and Gota would have voted same. JVP’s and others’ second preference would have propelled Sajith to victory. Madamulane Ranjith played a big role. Shame on him too.
Now the Christians have come to realise it was a set up by Sirisena and Rajapaksas to kill them first and fool them second. Game over.
/
Eagle Eye / July 18, 2020
Gatam,
“Rajapaksas will start their killings immediately after the election. They are no strangers to killing.”
—
Rajapakses stopped killings after they got rid of LTTE Tamil terrorist barbarians who went on killing thousands of civilians for three decades and sending megalomaniac Piripakaran to hell.
/
Native Vedda / July 20, 2020
Eagle Brain Dead Blind Eye
–
“Rajapakses stopped killings after they got rid of LTTE Tamil terrorist”
–
If so why does the mad brother self claimed STRONGMAN still believe LTTE is around, wants to strengthen armed forces, allow Kamal and Shavandra to try to bring the entire North East under their boot by making the area an open prison?
–
“who went on killing thousands of civilians for three decades and sending megalomaniac Piripakaran to hell.”
–
Did you see VP in hell after the war?
Who sent you there?
What were you doing there?
Reserving places for MR, GR, …….
/
Rajash / July 17, 2020
Cant trust Dayan’s writings.
He sits on the fence like a monkey and jumps to the side .. who ever throws the bred crumbs
/
leelagemalli / July 18, 2020
Rajash,
.
Looking at the manner, DJ reacted until lately, you the kind of people to see it that way is highly reasonable.
:
Who on earth would ever sit with ” WIMAL BURUWANSE” or the like – for any selfish gains, but Dr DAYAN JAYATHILAKA with loads of diplomatic experiences iwth Geneva, France and Russia at last, did it. Why I take the example – Wimal Buruwanse here is connected with his efforts having misled of whole lot of easy targets by his sinhala rhetoritics based on so called ” Western Conspiracies, Western Invasion, International Court-Hague”. Truth as i tis, as one living in the west for such a long time, west is not even aware of the LOCATION of OUR SMALL island. If only you would mention ” Bandararanayaka or Sirima Banadaranayaka”, or Ceylone Tea, they seem to be aware of it, but location wise, they the majority of europeans are not even aware of .
:
The question comes up here – WHAT have the men with DOCTORATE + decades long experience with diplomatic missions been doing ?
–
How would they add their counters if young diplomats would pass the question to them, how the youth could trust on their senior men in Foreign Missions ?
/
punchinilame / July 17, 2020
The educated commentators understand your reasoning very well – now the problem is to tackle the SB Voters. Basil is working strongly on the promises
he must have held with the extended family. His US citizenship is his guard.
The last chance to maintain an iota of future Democracy in Sri Lanka is in the
hands of SB Voters who must be guided by the Studentship of Sri Lanka briefing their family voting members of the dangers in a 2/3rd turnout and the trend
presently of Militarisation of Civil Administration – the only way the current
President knows politically. His elected supporters will not care for the Nation
but make hay while the sun shines.
/
Mallaiyuran / July 17, 2020
Thero is back after his staying out of CT, because of his failed mission of promoting the Assistant teacher of the Rapist Army’s, Sara’s Military juntas’ proposals. Thero vanished after that. Thero is now promoting unknown economist, Ms. Sathya Karunaratne.
We don’t have to deny the devil its credit. If in his whole life Thero had done one thing in politics right, it is he theoretically opposing the fascist dictator, JR. But Thero cleaned that record with chorine wipe immediately by servicing another fascist worse than Mussolini, the Richard P. Other than that anything is Thero’s life is disastrous mistakes.
Thero’s essays are like the Sinhala Buddhists’ elephant parade in Perahera in 2019. They beautifully decorated a sick elephant and forced it walk miles. But only national and international animal right groups posted the true picture of Skelton as that sick elephant. After walking in that parade the sick elephant fell down and died, soon. Thero’s decorated essays show off sick bones before the ink on the paper dry. Thero rushed to Old King in 2015 Narahenpita meeting to the power striped King to stress his importance in order to successfully seek FAM in his future government. .But now he doesn’t like one person in current dictatorship, So, Thero’s clique Lemon Puff, Communist Pakaya, Tissa, Deal Dada, Gammanpila et al are for the change of 19A, but Thero.
/
Mallaiyuran / July 17, 2020
Thero is an ardent advocate of Majoritarianism, an open racist. He constantly advocates that Tamils should accept Sinhala overruling because Sinhalese are the majority. Now he is decorating his essay against the majority’s wishes.
Let’s strip off Thero’s decorations & see what in the election. Nov, 2019 election Sinhalese wanted to prove minorities are not King makes, Lankawe is not a not a democratic country, but only a majoritarian rule. King collected a large majority and UNP Sinhalese too willingly handed over the government, to avoid Sumanthiran’s Secret Solution. The Sinhala Jury only Court stamped off the parliament –less ruling of King as constitutional. Now King is ruling with his military Juntas PTFs. Thero doesn’t want this dangerous situation changed. Thero’s basic argument is he always opposed removing dictator presidents. (From 1994, in all elections, Sinhalese voted to abolish EP). His favorites are Richard.P and Old King, the worst dictators, so far. Another thing is, he is a strong opponent of Tamils getting above 13A. His version of 13- is without Police, Land and North East Merger. Thero was, for past 5 years, against 19A which attempted to tame EP’s power. It failed because the UNP – SLFP fight in Feb 2015 in the parliament, especially by the pressure of defeated Old King. 19A tried to bring a halt to Old Royals Dynasty. Now Old King has to take responsibility for 19A going wrong.
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Mallaiyuran / July 17, 2020
Here the opportunistic, Smart Patriotic Cuban Communist is opposing changing the 13A & 19A. A story is said about a blind man whose child had died milk choking while mother feeding. The blind could not believe the milk he too drinks now and then can choke. So he asked his wife how the milk child drank look. She said “White” . He: “How the white looks like? She: “Stork.“ He: How does that thing looks like anyway” . She folded her elbow to indicate the neck of the bird and asked run his hand and feels it. Touching the bone pricking elbow, the blind cried “What will a child do but not choking if it drank something like this.” Thero is smart in showing the Nangi and marring the Akka to the Sinhala Buddhist Modayas. So, like the blind’s wife, he is guiding the Modayas on different dimensions for each question to convince them with his theories.
Here Thero’s elbow milk Economics PhD blaming the import controls for recession. Old King devastated the country’s economy by borrowing and sending it to Foreign accounts and using the left overs to build White elephants. Thero fully backed Chitanta government until he was fired from France. Thero has no comment to show about them from his economist.
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Mallaiyuran / July 17, 2020
So far there is no one manifesto that describes the pledges of the Royal government. So Slap Party and SLFP are saying differing things in different ways. Topics include, minority rights, constitutional change, economic policies, international relationships, MCC, 30/1 Resolution implementation……The worst evading -deceiving talks are in minority rights and constitutional change. That is the 13A & 19A. A wide range of talks are coming from all members of ruling coalition, because they are trying to keep IC cool while they milk the Modayas. So after election what is going to happen is anyone’s guess. Thero’s pretention of his royalty on those guessing is just fake roadshow.
Old King, both need and doesn’t need 19A. Thero was with Old Royal when Old King brought 18A to make Lankawe as a monarchy island of his. It is Ok for Thero that time. 19A abolished it. Old King wants 19A to balance with King. Problem for Old King is leaving the Kingdom in King’s hand for another five years can end his dynasty dream crushed. Thero hates Old King loosing. But if Old King touches on 19A King would take advance. So to seek s a balance with King on that issue, Thero thinks it is better keep minorities in the loop who like to make their kings.
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Mallaiyuran / July 17, 2020
Other than that Thero’s “majority ruling smart patriotic Social democracy theory” denies equal treatment for minorities in a democratic government.. Old King was, like us, in the hope as long as America is there, King would never become an EP. But now his full suspicion is if America had a role in the new regime change. This bothers him. He one time paid for American PR firms to eliminate Suzan Rice in Congress in support for John Kerry.
King is silent on Old King’s and his acolytes’ noises in the election stages. He knows he is riding a flying horse & it can turn upside down any time and drop him down to the hell. So he is holding on the mane of the horse with the help of Rapist Army Juntas. Anyway after election King will be forced appoint Old King as PM, which is now secured by 19A. Though difficult, A NCM can be brought against EP, but not against PM, under 19A. King will be stuck with Old King, whether Old King gets 2/3 or no, in all normal circumstances. This can become a worse situation than Ranil, New King Combination time by disunity.
Ranil will join the government after election & Old King will Trade Donkeys for reach 2/3, if Sinhalese didn’t give it to him.
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Noel / July 18, 2020
If the politicians missuses their powers, one day they will face justice.Se wat’s happening in Africa and in close by Malaysia and Indonesia.
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srikrish / July 18, 2020
Dayan Jayathilake,
A Two -Thirds majority: Formula for instability, only, If it is as a result of
(a ) a General Election as happened in 1970&1977r maneuvering using corrupt practices, offering perks or
(b) artificially obtaining two third majority due to cross over offering perks and privileges in a corrupt deal, as happened in 2014 for passing the 18th Amendment or.
( c ) unfair practice is helping to obtain a two third majority without any corrupt practices as
happened to the19th amendment ,but later put the blame solely on the governing
party for all the shortcomings.
All the above three scenarios should not be allowed to happen.in the future
If the present SLPP has an intention of bringing in a new constitution or amending the present constitution especially 19th and 13th or 13th alone, I should be carried out only by consensus freely exercised by each member acting independently of the political parry they belong to.
To ensure this situation SLPP should not be allowed to have two third or near two third and after the election no cross over as an individual member or as a political party as a whole.
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Ajith / July 18, 2020
It is good to see Dr. Dayan Jeyatilake putforward the dangers of giving a two third majority to one political party. On the new Constitutional idea it is very dangerous to giving a two third mandate to one political party with unknown outcome. If SLPP or Gotabaya Rajapakse has a draft proposal he should tell the people of this country what is the changes it going to make the country better than the current one. Will it bring peace, unite the communities, change the national flag, national security, security of the communites, identity of the diversed communities, foregin policy, code of conduct for political parties, politicians etc. Fortunately People had a very good experience of this political party and other political party ruled after 2009. They had opportunities to develop this nation by resolving many issues negotiating each other if they had honestly focused the country and people. Unfortunately, they become opportunists and greedy for power and wealth for their family and themselves. How long our politicians going to cheat the people? As long as people are kept themselves in the dark without searching for the truth, the fake propaganda and fake patriotism continue to destroy this nation.
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Kuviyam / July 18, 2020
Through well-planned Rigging in elections can get a two-third majority for Mahinda family. When the Defence forces are actively involved n elections there is a good chance for rigging in favor of Gota. The international monitoring team can’t do anything except produce a report Disunity among Minority political parties and also among singhala parties will help Gota to get two-third majority. It looks as if Ranil has hidden plan with SLPP
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Rampshang / July 18, 2020
My God,
Looking at all the comments, I cannot help wondering how many of you are Sri Lankan residents. Why? Such wonderment, there is a leadership and intellectual vacuum that prevails in Sri Lanka at present. It is indeed refreshing to see such commentary from Dayan Jayathilake, who has thus far has been an intellectual mercenary who sold his evident knowledge and talents to the Megalomaniac Rajapaksa.
Sinhala race, in my opinion, is a majority race with a minority mentality. Giving 2/3 majority to this morally and intellectually bankrupt family is a recipe for disaster. They’ll have a fill in the blank Constitution with amendments galore. Just look at the electoral mess in the north and east of the island. Over 300 people are contesting the election for only seven seats, all funded by the Rajapaksa family, just to split the “Votes!!!”
They have the money, and they’ll throw it around just stay in power and build more useless white elephants. We have Bandaranayake International Airport, Sri Jeyawardana Pura, and we are, of course, ready for Sri Rajapaksa Pura!!! Let us have monuments and cities named after all the “Thaesa Throhies.”
A country that should be self-sufficient in every way is begging literally and figuratively, all because of the mess created by the Senanaiakes, Bandaranaiakes, and all the brainless clowns who followed them.
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Eagle Eye / July 18, 2020
Rampshang,
“A country that should be self-sufficient in every way is begging literally and figuratively, all because of the mess created by the Senanaiakes, Bandaranaiakes, and all the brainless clowns who followed them.”
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Senanayakes and Bandaranayakes are responsible for creating the mess by allowing k-thonis and descendants of slaves from Hindusthan to play hell demanding Federal System/separate State. When Chelvanayakam who was born in Malaya and entered Sinhale illegally formed the Federal Party, Sinhala rulers should have deported him and told others either you stay in Sinhale without demanding Federal Unit/separate State or go back to the hellhole from where your ancestors came.
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Rampshang / July 19, 2020
Eagle Eye,
Get your facts right, before putting pen to paper. What is federal system of government? I’m not here to teach history and politics, with your minuscule knowledge you are talking jibberish. That is the only thing understand from your response.
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Plato / July 18, 2020
The 2/3 Majority Gvt: of 1970- 1977.
Life of Parliament was extended by 2 years. Elections should have been held in 1975.
A new Republican Constitution throwing out the Soulbury Constitution. Ceylon became Srilanka. [Since then Srilanka has been a Land like no other! ]
The 4/5ths Majority Gvt: of 1977- 1989.
JR made use of this roller-coast majority to appoint himself as the Executive President and the Republican constitution went into the waste paper basket!
The democratic socialist constitution was born.
Instead of holding elections at the due time in 1982, a Referendum was held and the life of Parliament was extended by another 7 years.
Whenever there is this 2/3rd or 4/5ths Govt: the knee-jerk reaction is to have a new constitution generally drafted to suit those in Power.
This time around , the Rajapakses have asked the voters to usher them in with a 2/3rds majority. Of-course they have been frank enough to say they wish to repeal the 19th Amendment. But in the process the 13th Amendment will also be a casualty.
Will they stop at that ? NO!
There would be no more elections in the foreseeable future;
Srilanka will be a Garrison state on the pretext of managing the Economy in the Post Covid-19 scenario.
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Thiagarajah Venugopal / July 23, 2020
Dear DJ
A very simplistic cherry picked analysis to a very complicated world in which we have journey through since Independence.
If we were to do the same cherry picking on each and every Nation the similar listing will be few pages full specially those countries we all live and call home..their democracies & economic success that we all want to emulate…there is no such perfect anything that exist…none…….we just need to learn to do our bit to make her a success with what we got rather than picking up a gun that we all could have done too…….but we did not hence all others around to reevaluate matters freely today..an happy for them too…Mother Lanka yes she is indeed a Land like no other and very forgiving. The impotent news is she has survived all those ignorant souls who pointed a gun at their fellow man and woman and still has a democracy left in her to even think of 2/3 majority to find solutions is indeed a miracle. Never mind the economic theories Sir.
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Thiagarajah Venugopal / July 24, 2020
Dear DJ
At this juncture (one more likely hood of the 2/3 majority scenario) you point out the previous GOSL attempts to do the same ended up causing all the problems and not solution oriented actions correct??
I think is the opposite…since 1970 that the JVP and the FP/TULF caused all the problems not following the democratic process and been very selective in all the interpretations of the events for their own ends. They themselves had no democratic values and killed more people in the process when the GOSL was merely trying to respond as best as she could to what was presented to them (she could never be perfect)….where the geo political masters moved in helped themselves as much as they could to suit their agendas too?
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Thiagarajah Venugopal / July 24, 2020
Now we have the new political dimension called Muslims and their needs no one has answers too?? So if everyone fell inline to the needs of the Nation been patient overtime they could have all taken care of each other…but not to be …Sinhalese Armed revolts, Tamil Version and now the Muslim version……..it is a very new Economical Concept altogether other than the Import and Export preferences is to not?? None of them speak for the Majority of the Sri Lankans be it Sinhalese, Tamils nor the Muslims of SL is it not??
Say I pick up a gun and pick an issue and start a new journey then all is justified for the GOSL go down on their knees to me? and this is democracy??
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