By Arun Kumaresan –
Arun Kumaresan – Air Vice Marshal (Ret’d)
MR’s pledge in Jan 2015 – “..I will take action to formulate a new Constitution..”
Recent callous utterances of a ‘uncivilized and barbaric’ nature, threatening to bomb the parliament and kill those engaging in the democratic process of constitutional reforms and fear mongering to the extent such persons will be dishonorably cremated similar to the era of anarchy in 1988/89, needs serious attention. It is no doubt that the government has the absolute mandate as they had pledged the agenda for the constitutional reform process both in the January and August 2015 election to bring in a new constitution, which they won.
However, in the heat of this debate, we have unfairly discriminated the population who voted to the then President Mahinda Rajapaksaha (MR). A cursory glance into the Chapter 2 of the election manifesto Mahinda Chintana – Path to Success; the vision of MR; he too has pledged the same. In order to be precise to the word, the relevant paragraphs have been reproduced below.
“A Wide Political Reform – A New Political Culture
We have been battered for 36 years by the 1978 Constitution which was thrust upon our people and country, without an appropriate debate or discussion. We must also collectively acknowledge that our Constitution is now further distorted due to the various amendments over the years, some of which are not consistent with others.
Therefore, instead of amending the Constitution further with piece-meal changes, I will take action to formulate a new Constitution that reflects the peoples’ ideas, aspirations and wishes, within a period of one year. The entire Parliament will be formed as a Constitutional Council consisting of peoples’ representatives belonging to all political parties, which will identify the peoples’ expectations and aspirations in order to formulate a new Constitution.
I will appoint a Citizens’ Advisory Council consisting of representatives of political parties who are not members of the Parliament, representatives of the youth parliament, Constitutional experts, intellectuals and professionals, in order to seek citizens’ views and recommendations for the new Constitution. I will first submit the Draft Constitution which will consist of the proposals of these groups, for the Parliament’s approval in accordance with the Constitution. Thereafter, I will present the Draft Constitution to a referendum seeking the approval of the people.
I will also ensure that the discussion on the new Constitution covers all sections, including the present executive presidency, the present election system, the rule of law, the powers of the judiciary, and the governance structures. I have patiently listened to the merits and de-merits of the debate on the executive presidency.
Accordingly, by eliminating the weaknesses of the Parliamentary system while retaining its satisfactory elements, I will amend the present executive presidency system, according to the decisions of the Constitutional Council….”
This pledge by MR too gained acceptance by those who voted for him. In keeping of the above salient features mentioned, it is clear the government is taking forward the constitution making process on the same template suggested by him: To amplify,
- Establishment and functioning of the Constitutional Assembly.
- Establishment of Public Representations Committee On Constitutional Reform headed by Mr Lal Wijeyanayake (conforms to the MR’s pledge of establishing Citizens’ Advisory Council. – Final report read here )
- Constitution Assembly also appointed subcommittees consisting all political parties to further study different areas and report has now been handed over to the said assembly to commence a debate prior preparing the draft constitution. ( Compilation of subcommittee reports )
As at now, it is very clear the constitution reform process is to repeal the present constitution, which even in the view of MR; made us to be “battered for 36 years by the 1978 Constitution which was thrust upon our people and country, without an appropriate debate or discussion.” Hence, it is pertinent to see the numbers – who gave their ‘nod’ for a BRAND MEW CONSTITUION.
It is clear 97% or nearly 12 million voters have given a clear mandate to repeal and save the nation from the curse and battering over a period of four decades due to JR’s 78’ constitution – also popularly referred as the ‘Bahubootha Vivasthave’.
Hence, all the legislators have the legitimate right augmented by the unprecedented people’s mandate to take forward and spearhead the act of creating a new constitution to honor the will of 12 million people; in the name and for the sake of reestablishing liberal democratic governance in our cherished motherland.
A ‘Plea’ To Constitutional Assembly – Condem And Deplore
Giving due cognizance to the mandate by 12 million voters; may the Constitution Assembly during the next scheduled sitting on Oct 31st; unanimously adopt a resolution deploring and condemning the unprecedented threats made in public to bomb the very legislature and kill anyone for their freedom to act consciously in the conduct based on established norms of legitimate democratic process.
“THOSE WHO MAKE THREATS ARE MESSENGERS OF EVIL; THEY REJOICE IN ESTABLISHING A STATE OF ANARCHY”
Muruthattaya Somarama / October 27, 2017
Those that are the loudest in their threats are the weakest in their actions.
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Samson Gunawardhana / October 27, 2017
MR has never said anything thinking twice.
His moves are always dependent on his selfish gains
That destroyed his entire political future.
Actually, he is the leader who could change a lot witth the mandate he enjoyed in previous govt. Anyways, him to have been changed as KATUSSA got gold around his neck, not thinking about the future of people, abused him.
I really dont think developing folks would ever produce good leaders that see it beyond.
That would NOT become selfish politically.
That is common to entire developing fauna.
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Neesha Bitchwal / October 27, 2017
“THOSE WHO MAKE THREATS ARE MESSENGERS OF EVIL; THEY REJOICE IN ESTABLISHING A STATE OF ANARCHY”
Direct threats require decisive action.
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Champa / October 27, 2017
Nowhere it says, they would bring a FEDERAL CONSTITUTION or REPEAL CONCURRENT LIST or GRANT POLICE AND LAND POWERS to Provincial Councils.
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If there had been any indication to that effect, people would not have think twice to VOTE AGAINST even Mahinda.
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Individuals don’t matter to Sinhalese. What matters to us is the COUNTRY.
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gorakaya / October 27, 2017
Champa, another fool and a seeker of blood.
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srinath.gunaratne / October 27, 2017
Sinhalese are under threat in their country as they have never been, Every machination is at hand to reduce the power of the majority and weaken them!
If a constitution is accepted by the majority so be it! Never we allow anybody to hoodwink us like this nitwit government to introduce nitwit changes that affect our country for centuries.
This government is full of nitwits, Ones who crossed over from Mahinda and ones who value money than anything else.
The Nitwits responsible for the massive bond scam must be sent to jail, including money launderers, tax dodgers.
They had 3 years to find Mahinda’s 4 billion hidden under Mahinda’s underpants. They are still looking for it!
It is so important to understand the players in this government send them home in the next election.
Nitwit Viggie and Nitwit TNA is looking for Peelam while their people suicide in families! Poor Tamils can drink Nitwit constitution soup,
Why do you think that we will let happen what Sun goat tried with land mines?
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Burt / October 27, 2017
srinath:
” Every machination is at hand to reduce the power of the majority and weaken them!”
What is this power and strength you speak of?
Economically your drowning in debt.
Judiciary in the last 30 years has hit rock bottom.
Your military recognized as war criminals and after Haiti as Child Molesters and rapists.
The universities: you saw the ranking.
Buddhism: Looks a joke to me but will let a true Buddhist answer that.
So can you explain what this unitary constitution with Buddhism at the foremost place and perks and privileges for majority given that you dont want it changed.
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Kumar / October 28, 2017
Nitwit srinath.gunaratne
Are we going back to square one (the 1956 – 1972 era) to restart the struggle again? This time, not only Wigneswaran but all the Tamil politicians and the entire Tamil community (tens of thousands) will rise and protest. The government cannot simply fool the people saying equal status and maximum devolution to all and then give first class status to one race/religion only.
If the Sinhala-Buddhists think that the Tamil freedom struggle ended at Nandikaddal, they are worse than the worst fools in this world. Just like the Palestine-Jew conflict continues with the Western World supporting the Jews, the Sinhala-Tamil conflict will also continue with the West (including the UN) supporting the Tamils. Poor Sri Lanka will always continue to be the begging nation and known as a pariah state.
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Simon De Silva / October 28, 2017
Long time, no see Srinath,
I thought you should have been sunken for all what you had been spreading in the promotion and prostutition tacts for Gotabaya and Rajaakshe tyrany
Anyways, good to see you back.
When would you guys sense it, that we the lankens would never be able to see peace if Rajapakshes would be back.
They can better be used for hang men if Ellumgaha would be returned with exponentially rising crime rates.
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
Champa the …………………………oldest profession .
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Your pimp Wimal Sangili Karuppan Weerawansa threatens to bomb parliament. If he is brave enough as his name suggests, then he should make good of his threat.
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Have you noticed how Fascism is creeping into polity?
Wimal is terrorising democracy while former men in uniform war criminals are militarizing democracy. And you support more political prostitution.
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Punchiburampi / October 28, 2017
If a citizen but from minority would have threatened that way, by today, it would surely have misinterpreted as they the ltte supporters are on a rise. We need to be even more strongly against them bla bla … would have been the stance that extremists biased pvt media channels of the island ( namely, sirasa, balu Derana, Balu Hiru etc). The mentioned media men would have divided the nation by their vicious thoughts.
But today, a man who can be identified no different to former LTTE rebells but origin is proved to be from SInahlese – none other than sakkili Wimal Buruwasne to incite the nation this way should be HELD criminal act that the local law system should take to the the hearts.
Later, all other folks would ask the govt, why would not take action against Wimal Rodia. I have had a hate to this man from my Alevel days on. That was in 81. I think even if people would not support, JVPrs to that era had been even worst than Ltte supporters.
Now with them being in democractic path, though it took that long them to get identified with democracts of the country, still I feel no good when listening to that Vasantha samarasinghe or the man in Umaoya area that rabblerouse the natiion with the fate of Umaoya aftermath situation.
All in all, these politicians must be punished not allowing them to devide this nation and bring them back to even worst situation.
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Champa / October 28, 2017
Oh…. noooooo, are you terrified, Little Burmapi? When you ask something, you should be prepared to receive it.
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You will reap what you sow. When you sow wind, you will reap whirlwind!!!
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LittleisimonfromBerlin / October 28, 2017
Native,
It was not easy to think of CHAMPA yestreda< while waiting for my train heading back to Colonge. There was a russian prostitute, that broke the silence in the waiting lounge, explaing all the bits that have been made to her during her entire carrier.
So is the ground reality of the people of CHAMPA nature. For some reasons they easily choose the oldest profession for easy earnings.
Mostly, they forget what they are talking about.
Champa, time has come you to seek a rehab.
If former LTTERs or former JVPrs are recovered from their depths, why cant you ?
We sent you Champa, enough Punnakku, none of them seem to have worked properly.
Native please tell me what options left to help out this poor creature.
Thank you.
Berlin
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Champa / October 28, 2017
Keyboard Vedda
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Leave Wimal alone. There are 15 million of Sinhalese. You and those who support the Federal Constitution will “experience 5 star democracy” when Tamils and Muslims living in the South among Sinhalese start receiving Red Notices on their door steps telling them to leave their homes and settle in the North within 48 hours, the same thing Prabhakaran did in the North and East to chase Sinhalese. Nobody will be able to stop reversal of events.
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Anyways, I heard some Muslims also now fear of Ranil’s Federal Constitution. They have lot to lose, much more than what they gain from the Federal Constitution.
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Ranil and his bloody government are totally unaware of the consequences of their separatist agenda. The results for not listening to peaceful protest against Federal Constitution will make all traitors learn the lesson hard way. Then Ranil will commit suicide, 100% guaranteed. There is nice ice cream in the North, these days.
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Prasad / October 28, 2017
“Federal Constitution will “experience 5 star democracy” when Tamils and Muslims living in the South among Sinhalese start receiving Red Notices telling them to leave their homes and settle in the North within 48 hours”
Red Notices? LOL!
No wonder the Portuguese called these Sinhalays Modayass only good for gobbling kavum. This uneducated imbecile is just exhibiting his/her idiocy and total ignorance. The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has delivered a landmark judgment that “Federalism is NOT Separatism”. With a Federal Constitution, nobody is going to chase out anybody. No Tamils in the South are going to move to the NE and no Sinhalese in the NE are going to move to the South by having a federal system.
Let them reject the Federal Constitution at the referendum and pave the way for a non-violent Tamil uprising that leads to a UN sponsored referendum for the North and East.
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Champa / October 28, 2017
Idiocy is on your part. Ranil and you only think about the theory. My comment shows the practical side which is inevitable if the Federal Constitution is passed.
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Your first para shows that you couldn’t even understand the meaning of what I said as you have taken the literal meaning.
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Your hilarious last para shows that you think Sinhalese will simply offer Tamil Eelam to separatists, presented on a tray.
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Prasad / October 29, 2017
Champa
“Your hilarious last para shows that you think Sinhalese will simply offer Tamil Eelam to separatists, presented on a tray.”
You sound like a first class idiot. Who told you that the Sinhalese will give the Tamils or the Tamils will ask the Sinhalese for a separate state? Can’t you see that the US and UN and EU are directly interfering in Sri Lanka’s Tamil issues? Do you know that in the recent past the UN interfered and got separate countries for ‘Kosovo’, ‘South Sudan’, ‘East Timor’ and ‘Montenegro’ by having a referendum?
Tie your amude tight, otherwise you have to run without it.
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Mallaiyuran / October 28, 2017
Champawati,
Leave Wimal alone. There are 15 million of Sinhalese. You and those who support the Federal Constitution will “experience 5 star democracy” when Tamils and Muslims living in the South among Sinhalese start receiving Red Notices on their door steps telling them to leave their homes and settle in the North within 48 hours, the same thing Prabhakaran did in the North and East to chase Sinhalese. Nobody will be able to stop reversal of events.
You may have wish to loot lttle bit more. But unfortunately Tamils are not asking Federalism from Ranil, but Self-Determination from UN-UNHRC. You will be fine when UN Peacekeepers walk in to conduct the referendum. You were an obedient child when Rajiv’s army walked in. Don’t become nervous now or anxious now imagining new tahalikodies and open brothels.
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Lion / October 27, 2017
The voters who voted for MR besides not being very intelligent ..it is more or less an emotional vote. Even the intelligentsia who voted for MR had different personal agendas than to support for a complete change of the present CONSTITUTION. Because they all know that MR has a masters degree in deception and that he anyway would have changed the constitution in his own way…had he won
Those who voted for MS in 2015 had only one objective ..that is to defeat MR and his Clan’s walk to Dictatorship… People were successful in defeating MR dangerous dream …MS is very well aware ..if he has a heart or conscience …that his only solemn promise to people ..to late Ven Sobhitha Thero was the repeal of the 18th amendment with 19th amendment …those voted for him knew that MS could be trusted.
Therefore ..it is nothing but sheer lunacy to interpret or express opinion based on the 12.0 mn votes were for a change of constitution…..the writer has unfortunately not thoughtfully viewed why 6.2mn people voted to defeat MR if their only objective was a complete change of the Constitution…even Tamil was to defeat MR..
Change of the constitution is a grand plan of CBK/ RW / Mangala ….
* CBK is to ensure the fulfillment of her father the late SWRDB’s great dream.
* RW to become the first Executive PM and dictator …
* Mangala to be somebody…
They now use MS to shove it down in our throats…which will be defeated.. But People still have faith in MS that he would not create another bloodshed in Sri Lanka…and in no- way allow history to repeat…the breakup in India in creating a great Dravida Nation…
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ekelbroom / October 27, 2017
Any Election Manifesto of a Politician or Political Party will contain multiple proposals.
If an elector decides to cast his vote for that Politician or Party, it does not necessarily imply that he approves of ALL such proposals in the Manifesto, although it suits the Politician / Political Party to make such claims.
Repealing the Constitution of a Country is such an important step that it has to be approved by the people at a single-issue referendum.
To therefore claim that over 12 million voters approved the proposal to repeal the Constitution at the 2015 Presidential Election is misleading.
Most Muslims voted for Maithripala Sirisena for one single reason – to achieve their basic need for physical safety. Not to repeal a Constitution that has been in existence for the past 37 years
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Saro / October 28, 2017
Sri Lankan constitution or law won’t be enforced or implemented to enable minorities especially Tamils to get on with their normal life.
Tamil is an official language, but Tamils get letters of demand or even normal letters in Sinhalese only.
13th Amendment is part of the constitution, as such is the law of the land with Land and police powers to the provincial councils. But, even after nearly 30 years but the centre still control the police and land in the provinces.
Does it matter if some powers are decentralised and given to provinces. It’s the centre – president – who will decide what provinces have or not.
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Shenal / October 27, 2017
So because Mahinda has promised to deliver a brand new constitution, do we need to accept what ever constitution brought forward by any Tom, Dick and Harry? We need to go beyond the 1978 Constitution but must retain the constructive clauses of the current constitution. Besides, a constitutional amendment can correct the failings of the current constitution. Why don’t these constitution makers think of that option rather than trying bring forth a brand new constitution vehemently?
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Burt / October 27, 2017
“We need to go beyond the 1978 Constitution but must retain the constructive clauses of the current constitution. “
Can you define the constructive clauses your referring to and the reason why it should not be removed or amended.
“Besides, a constitutional amendment can correct the failings of the current constitution.”
I don’t think so as CKB, MR and not this govt had looked at that option and rejected it. MR might now say that an amendment would do but while in power he wanted a new constitution written.
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
Burt
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“Can you define the constructive clauses your referring to and the reason why it should not be removed or amended.”
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Shenali will go into hiding or send sach the stupid or bloody nuisance to deal with you.
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Shenal / October 29, 2017
Burt, Sorry for the late reply;
Most of the 1978 constitution clauses are constructive. There are few parts to be removed of course like the how elections are done, 13th amendment and 4th amendment.
Why reject the option of bringing further amendments to the current constitution? It is the most easiest way to correct the aliments of the 1978 constitution. Besides, it gives public broader perspective of the changes that are about to be made regarding the constitution and scrutinize them thoroughly.
I think that’s what this new constitution makers do not want. The public scrutiny.
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Plato. / October 27, 2017
Even the Supreme Court has passed Judgement to the effect that Federalism is not Separation. Without understanding the underlining principle and concepts there are still people who like the Parrot repeat the same slogans over and over again.
Its refreshing to note that Arun Kumaresan makes out a fine Analysis. All the more so coming from someone who had served the country in the Air-Force.
Not many from the Forces could place Pen to Paper to persuasively make out a case.
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Rajiv / October 27, 2017
Plato,
Granted, Federalism is not separation at the inception.
Unfortunately, after 5 years(and every 5 years thereafter if unsuccessful), International law allows a Federation to have a referendum toward separation. Guess which way that vote is going to go.
So, it is deceptive and disingenuous to seek Federalism and claim it is not separation knowing very well that it will lead to separation in 5 years.
Unlike the UK over Scotland, Sri Lanka doesn’t have the clout or friends to take over ports and air bases and declare them sovereign(which is what UK threatened to do is Scotland separated via a referendum)
In Canada, people of Quebec consider themselves Canadian first, hence the reason it has not split yet. You have to agree that in Sri Lanka, most Tamils do not identify as Sri Lankan at all.
If Federalism is granted, in 5 years the Sinhala people will need a passport to travel to the North/East of Sri Lanka as we now know (Which will of course be renamed Eelam).
So, any right thinking Sri Lankan should not support Federalism irrespective or race, religion or party affiliation.
Just FYI, I am Sri Lankan first. Everything else is secondary and irrelevant.
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Dr. Gnana Sankaralingam / October 28, 2017
Rajiv, your statement that UK threatened to take over ports and airports and declare them sovereign if Scotland separated via a referendum, is a blatant lie. UK faced the referendum in a gentlemanly manner and was prepared to honour the result. People like you who are bigoted come out with such rubbish to prove your point. In any demand for independence the factors at play are Nationalism VS economics. In the cases of both Scotland and Quebec, economic factor outdid nationalism factor. In the case of Catalonia and Iraqi Kurdistan, nationalism outdid economy and both voted for independence. With years of racial discrimination and violent suppression, do you blame Tamils doing likewise. Now that LTTE is no more, Sinhalese are being exposed as the intransigent lot for a fair settlement.
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Jimsofty / October 28, 2017
YOu are just joking. Tamil castes, their desire to live among sinhala people surpasses all your theories. why Dalits don’t like to live among Tamils and about 70% Tamils live among Snhala people ?
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Percy / October 28, 2017
SankRalingam, I fear that the blatant lie came from you. Ed Miliband not only threatened to have thousands of border guards if the “yes” vote succeeded and also suggested that airport and port entry/exit formalities will have enormous changes. “Gentlemanly manner” ? My foot.Please refrain from making statements that pretend to be true but lack total credibility.
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Dr. Gnana Sankaralingam / October 28, 2017
Percy you are on the wrong foot. It was conservative government that was in power when the Scottish referendum was held. So how can Ed Miliband of labour party station border guards. For your information the boundaries of Scotland are defined and English never tried to change the ethnic balance in Scotland by large scale settlements of English or ethnic cleansing of Scots as how successive Sinhala governments have done to Tamil areas in Srilanka. Of course if Scotland became independence, formalities will have to change as for another foreign country like France. Even now UK is not frightened to hold a referendum as they know that Scottish people do not want one for the moment. People like you who are not British should not come out with such accusations.
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Percy / October 29, 2017
I agree that the Tories were in power,but that does not mean that the Labour Party had no view on the issue. In fact both David Cameron and Ed Milliband were United in their opposition to Scottish independence. You don’t have to believe me, but look into the history of the issue.
As to ethnic cleansing in SRI Lanka do you agree that the majority of Tamils live in South SL including Colombo.Please tell me what happened to the Sinhala people living in the North. Your propaganda is not based on facts but on pure communalism. Shame on you.
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
Rajiv
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“So, any right thinking Sri Lankan should not support Federalism irrespective or race, religion or party affiliation.”
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Only the irrational man/woman would fear democratization of the state. The country has been subjected to centralisation. If the trend prevails you may have to obtain written permission to copulate with your partner. The saffron clad thugs would be going around houses demanding to inspect, teach, count, ….. how you are getting on with your sex life..
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While you may not mind Gnanasara visiting your house to check private parts of you and your partner, teach you how best to have sex, many of us are not happy to let him inside our houses.
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srinath.gunaratne / October 28, 2017
We will look after safron thugs, you look after peelam thugs
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Burt / October 28, 2017
Saffron is an expensive commodity what you got is “turmeric” thugs. Just a correction.
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
srinathan.gunaratnam
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“We will look after safron thugs, you look after peelam thugs”
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We will need to get rid of both.
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However, don’t forget Peelam thugs were necessary to get rid of the regional Hindian thugs. The war criminals of this country could only fight and kill their innocent people as evident from 1971 to 2015, not foreign invaders.
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By any chance your father was a saffron clad thug?
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Kumar / October 28, 2017
Rajiv,
“International law allows a Federation to have a referendum toward separation.”
Please do not dish out Bull crap.
If that was the case, Tamil Nadu would have separated from India long ago.
Look at all the new nations that have come into being in recent years following the United Nations` intervention and referendums. ‘Kosovo’, ‘South Sudan’, ‘East Timor’ and ‘Montenegro’. None of them were a federation and none of them were recognized by any state/country or international organization of the international system in this world as a nation or nationality until they were established. What International law allowed them to have a referendum (without federation) to establish a separate country? You do not need a Federation to have a referendum toward separation.
However, if you deny federalism, then calling for a UN sponsored referendum toward separation similar to the above countries is the only option left for the Tamils.
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soma / October 28, 2017
Plato,. no one has to make any pursuasive case against Federalism. The majority of the Tamils(Tamil speaking people) who are living among the Sinhalese are an unequivocal statement of confirmation. Try to convince a single family to move out of Sinhala areas volunteily and Soma will be in the front raw walking with you supporting all what you demand. I always think how cunning Tamil political class is in promoting this obvious hypocrisy.
Soma
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
somass ji
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Didn’t you count the number of families who voluntarily went back to their habitat following the end of war? What bull s**t are you talking about?
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“Soma will be in the front raw walking with you supporting all what you demand”
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Somass ji will be the first one to be deported/relocated/repatriated to his/her/its cherished Sinhala/Buddhist fascist ghetto. Maybe send back to South India.
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Sinhala_Man / October 27, 2017
Thanks, Retired Air Vice Marshal Arun Kumaresan.
We need more contributions of this sort. What Mahinda Chinthanaya has set forth is the NEED for a new Constitution. Mahinda Ra and I are both citizens of this country, both now in the twilight of our lives – well, that needn’t be a consideration! But we both have to rise above petty considerations, and think of future generations.
Those who have claimed that there were many other issues which mattered at the time of the election of a new President are right, and I agree that the new Constitution should not be just smuggled in. A referendum is possibly going to be necessary, although it is true that the majority of the people cannot really understand the abstract concepts that have to be juggled with, and I wouldn’t want to dictate every detail. I would be uncomfortable sanctioning Maithripala Sirisena to run for a second term, although he has proved to be more decent than the other politicians who have attained some eminence. He promised otherwise. Breaking a solemn and important promise changes a man. We certainly should not accept the Jayampathy Wickremarate suggestion that the next EXECUTIVE President be elected by Parliament.
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When violation of what was promised becomes so outrageous, we are asking for trouble in the future.
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What you have done, Arun, is to demonstrate clearly that every politician with experience knows that there are imperfections in the present Constitution. Now it is up to each of us citizens to either find the inspiration to put together a cogent piece of writing as you have done, or to humbly acknowledge the validity of what you have said, as I am doing now.
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Arun Kunaresan / October 28, 2017
Thanks Sir,
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Sinhala_Man / October 29, 2017
Dear Retired Air Vice Marshal Arun Kumaresan,
There unfortunately is some truth in what Plato said in his first, confused, comment on this article of yours:
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/constitution-making-creating-a-sri-lankan-identity/
To establish your credentials as a Sri Lankan, it may be necessary that you speak some Sinhalese, apart from Tamil and English. I’m considered such, without knowing a word of Tamil. Yet, it may be that both of us are seen by the monolingual Sinhalese as having a diluted form of Sri Lankanness. Of course this is unfair. Also unfair is the requirement that every Tamil farmer (fisherman do get about, I guess) who hardly ever moves out of his village should know some Sinhalese: he has no need of it. The Sinhalese have to learn to be both more realistic and generous. Why harass those who are singing the National Anthem like this?
I tried here to give a link to the Sri Lankan National Anthem, and got blocked repeatedly by my anti-Malware programme! (before I could even add “sung in Tamil on Youtube”) – these blockings are the unnecessary problems that we constantly create for ourselves. Anyway, I’ve heard it, and it IS our Anthem, sung with understanding.
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This next situation is somewhat different to yours:
https://www.poets.org/poetsorg/poem/irish-airman-foresees-his-death
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The second time I’ve referred to Yeats; his poetry is great, but his life and politics was disappointing in places. He was adopting the persona of Jack Gregory (yes, that name has a connection with Gregory’s Road, and Lake Gregory in Nuwara Eliya).
I hope you understand that what I’m trying to say is that the problems ARE there, but you, to me, are wholly admirable.
To be continued . . .
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Sinhala_Man / October 29, 2017
Continuing . . .
I do hope that I make myself clear. We’ve been discussing the need for certain changes to the Constitution. This appeal of mine is to the many Sinhalese who fear even to engage in such talks in a spirit of co-operation.
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I’ve personally never been enthusiastic about any armed forces, but they probably are necessary. Our problems about the ending of the war would have been much less had there been a sizeable number of Tamil (and Muslim) members in those armed forces. I know that almost forty years ago it may have got to the position that the Sinhalese felt distrust of Tamils in the forces. Now the question is, “How do we overcome this situation?” We’ve got to search for solutions.
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That comparison with Ireland is valid only to a point. All Irishmen long ago had got to the position of speaking English. Irish Gaelic was kept going in certain homes. Over the centuries, the native Celts (who remained Catholic) had lost their lands to English Protestants who were gifted huge tracts of land by the Kings of England who ruled over Ireland. The absentee landlords were stinking rich, the native Celts had abject poverty. One has to move forward many centuries from the time when the likes of Queen Elizabeth the First sent conquering forces, to see what has by NOW happened. The only great Catholic-background writer produced by Ireland was James Joyce. Swift, Sheridan, Yeats, Shaw, Oscar Wilde – they were all from the rich Protestant Irish Ascendancy. I have made a close study of the one poor Protestant writer – Sean O’ Casey.
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Most of this may be too “literary” for the topic we are discussing. But what I’m trying to say is that the Republic of Ireland has overcome many of those problems with time. Some remain.
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As for me, as many readers know, despite all that study, I remained a village school master, who never left Asia. I can’t help feeling that I had the potential to do more in life. I don’t think it necessary for me to identify myself further, but Arun, I could add a few details which would enable YOU to track me down. I’ve given even my e-mail address and phone number in some articles that I have written – under my real name.
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We must be grateful that the likes of you are to be found in our country, and have proposed what you have as a citizen, which is what I am, and Mahinda Rajapaksa is. In putting forward his manifesto, he knew that changes had to be made. Let us discuss seriously, and act without unnecessary delay.
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Karikalan / October 28, 2017
Rajiv:
“……after 5 years….International law allows a Federation to have a referendum toward separation”
International Law does NOT say that. Maybe that some country-specific constitution says that. I don’t know which country you are referring to.
“… In Canada, people of Quebec consider themselves Canadian first……(I)n Sri Lanka, most Tamils do not identify as Sri Lankan at all.”
The hard truth is that Sinhala “patriots” do not accept /identify Tamils as Sri Lankans.
FYI: In Canada, in the last 50 years, nationals of Quebec have held office as Canadian Prime Ministers for 37 years. Is that possible in Sri Lanka? At a minimum for 5 years? At least for 5 months?. Therefore,
We are Tamils first. Everything else is secondary and, may be relevant. Okay?
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D .Nimal / October 28, 2017
Current TNA and JVP are politically that anti-establishment political outflies has undermine that Democracy structure of Parliament. The TNA advocated separatism for Tamil Eealm regime since 1949 very inception of Federal Party SJV. JVP was anarchist of Terrorist outfits.
1) Indeed Federal Party and TULF of that Federalism of Separatist political road map of carry forward by TNA of Tamil Nationalism-Chauvinism which back by GUN Point of LTTE was TNA armed wing .
The joint operation of LTTE and TNA launch 30 years War against Parliamentary Democracy of Sri lanak by USA UK and Indian finical funding and armed supply, training for base in India?
After failure of wining Gun Rule politics by TNA-LTTE join operation ; now similar and same TNA want “Homeland for Tamils” in new form by proposed “New Constitution” of TNA of demanded that Tamil Nationalism by to be Removed an Unitary principle of ongoing Constitutional changes ?
TNA as anti-establishment her political operation last 70 odd years. It is not suitable at all to give such Constitutional access to TNA by New Homeland proposed by hidden agenda Destroy and disobey Republic Constitution of Sri lanka? The history of TNA credential and Confidence has proved thatthier Not Eligible and trust worth for working democratic framework in Island-wide.!
2 JVP was founded in 1965 by anarchist -Terrorist of PDN Wjiweera who has totally destroy very foundation democratic structure of Parliamentary Democracy .JVP has led two insurrections in 1971-April and 1988/89/90, result of that lost hundred thousands of life of South Youth. The Terrorist of anarchist having of that JVP has no accountability of that?
JVP was beginning anti-establishment Political outfits . They want “New” Constitution of dismantle Center of State power by divided into several regions.
Needless to say JVP seek weak Center of State to regain power by different path and model of anarchism?
Our duty is give certain facts for thought of proposed “New Constitution” going to an undermine, that our Democratic foundation??? JVP seek Weak and Non-operational Democracy in Center of State?.
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soma / October 28, 2017
For those who are opposed to fedalism which they are convinced will lead to separatism (like me) the only strategy to stop this deadly move in its tracks is to carry out a massive wave of educational propaganda on what the whole drama will entail – expulsion of Tamil(Tamil speaking people, irrespective of their religion or the date of arrival , out of Sinhala areas , Rohingya style. Every Tamil must be made to clearly understand this. Tamils must be made to understand that they can have a separate Homeland OR the right to live anywhere, DEFINITELY not both. . I fervently encourage the Tamils to accept the second option and invite them to continue to live with us in one unitary political structure. No force on earth UN, USA or India can prevent this Rohingya style discrimination in this over populated island boat. It is up to the Sinhalese to convince the Tamils( Tamil speaking people) living among them of this reality.
Soma
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
somass ji
–
“For those who are opposed to fedalism which they are convinced will lead to separatism (like me) “
–
You believe in many things, for example:
You are the chosen people
The awakened one flew all the way from Ganges to this island and cleansed it with fire, wind and water.
The Sinhalese were advanced in genetics more than 2500 years ago.
Sinhalese discovered Zero.
Sinhalese are White Aryans
Sinhala is the oldest classical language.
Sinhala hydraulic civilisation is unique and advanced.
…..
…..
….
This is a Sinhala/Buddhist country.
You are a Buddhist.
The Roaring lion Anagarika Homeless Dharmapa was Buddha’s reincarnation.
The Sinhala/Buddhist leaders fought and won independence from Brits
—
Samuel James Veluppillai Chelvanayakam of FP and VP of LTTE destroyed Jaffna Library in a coordinated joint commando operation.
—
Dr Mahinda Rajapaksa single-handedly fought and won the war.
Dr Gotabhaya Rajapaksa single-handedly fought and won the war.
Kamal Gunaratne single-handedly fought and won the war.
The film director Sarath Weerasekara single-handedly fought and won the war.
—
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Thanga / October 28, 2017
Thanks for quoting from the UPFA manifesto styled “Mahinda Chintana”. It was timely and relevant in respect of the current debate over the new constitution. Obviously, Mahinda and his cohorts are playing politics. Look at what GL Peiris who is a master at jumping sides says about the constitution. Under Mahinda he was treated shabbily by not only Mahinda, but by his siblings as well. Basil and Gotabhaya used to go to Delhi for talks leaving chameleon back in Sri Lanka. It was pathetic to see the professor seated behind Sri Lankan UN special Representative Minister Samarasinghe and carrying his bag! Memory may be short it is the same GL Peiris who in December 2002 exclaimed on receiving the LTTE proposals for maximum autonomy in a united Ceylon that it was a “paradigm shift.” Now tongue in cheek opposes tooth and nail similar proposals contained in the Interim Report. No wonder people call him a chameleon. MR is trying to come back to power riding on the communal wave one more time.
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Percy / October 28, 2017
The writer as well as the other Tamil contributors writing under various names think that the Sinhalese people can be fooled. This so called new constitution is a Trojan horse to fool the Sinhalese people to accepting Federalism thrust through the back door. It is also an attempt to remove the protection given to Buddhism as the foremost religion of the country.Even the Kandyan convention signed by the conquering British clearly inscribed the recognition of Buddhism as the religion of the land. Now we have Ranil a Baptised Christian, but for political adabatage shamelessly pretending to be a Buddhist, at the forefront of this “federalism by stealth/destruction of Buddhism” move for the govt to continue to rob and plunder the country, SRI Lanka never had traitors like this leading the country,!
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Native Vedda / October 28, 2017
Percy the pathetic smart ass patriot
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“This so called new constitution is a Trojan horse to fool the Sinhalese people to accepting Federalism thrust through the back door. “
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Lets not discuss whether the constitution is a Trojan horse to enter the city of Troy or not please let us have your sound argument against Federalism only if you know what Federalism actually meant.
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“It is also an attempt to remove the protection given to Buddhism as the foremost religion of the country.”
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The constitution doesn’t provide protection to Buddhism, however it provides protection to the crooks, criminals, rapists, drug smugglers, fraudsters, politicians, thieves …. a good place for them to hide from law. It is for the people to protect whatever they believe in, in this instant a way of life which is merely believed to be linked to Buddha’s teaching. It is only a believe. People can believe in anything.
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“Even the Kandyan convention signed by the conquering British clearly inscribed the recognition of Buddhism as the religion of the land.”
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Its only limited to the Kingdom of Kandy which survived only a few hundred years. Torture was officially sanctioned and carried out in Kandyan Kingdom, will you now employ official “Wadhakaya”s – state torturers as a matter of tradition? Slavery was legal and widely practiced in Kandyan Kingdom, would you now bring back slavery being a profitable business?
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The Mahasangha planned to kill King Rajashimha. Do you recommend the Mahasangha should be allowed to use any method necessary to dispose/depose the rulers?
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Please let me know as to why you are trying to hide behind Buddhasasana? Are you one one of the following:
crook, criminal, rapist, drug smuggler, fraudster, politician, thief?
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Percy / October 29, 2017
Native vedda is obviously of Tamil descent!
We know what Federalism is, and that is exactly what we object to.We do not want people of your ilk having to do anything with future of this land. If you want Eelam go and do it in India.
Kandyan convention applied to the whole of Ceylon. If you don’t know your history go back to your hut in the jungle.
What Rajasingha are you talking about.? Those buggers who polluted Kandy with their stinking thala thel and vaddais ?
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Native Vedda / October 29, 2017
Percy the pathetic smart ass patriot
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It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt.
Mark Twain
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Please let us have your sound argument against Federalism only if you know what Federalism actually meant.
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Well if you do not know what you are talking about, it is okay you can chose refrain from typing. By the way descendants of Kallathonie converts have real problem, and it is obvious from your typing.
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Percy / October 30, 2017
If native Tamil Veddas thinks that I am going to give him lessons on political thought, he will have another thought coming his way. Why don’t you go to a Saiva shrine and pray till Kingdom come? That’s assuming you will be allowed in. We in the South know about untouchables
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vishnu / October 28, 2017
Ardent Duty of the government and the duty of the good real patriotic citizen to explain to the silent majority at the village level about the importance and true contents of the draft new constitution. Ultimately they are the people who are going to decide.
Sri Lanka Buddhism is entirely different from true Buddhism, 1st political assassination taken place in Sri Lanka in Asia, S.W.R.D. Bandaranayake was short dead/killed by Somarama Thero a Buddhist monk and he was hanged/sentence to death. That was the lesson/warning given to all the genuine politician who may try to solve the ethnic problem once and for all, even Chandrika Kumarathunga got frightened to proceed with Neelan Thiruchelvam/G.L.Peries Draft constitution.
We must win the hearts and minds of the Majority/Sinhalese Buddhists, they are very good, kind and understanding people, our duty to eliminate/remove the misunderstanding instilled in their minds and hearts.
May God Save Sri Lanka.
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Mallaiyuran / October 28, 2017
Next to the Sinhala intellectuals’ humiliation to the common sense of Tamils, these essays from Tamils standing as most bother ones. It is very injustice, in CT, the readers are being forced to answer to this type of NorthEast Modayas’ essays. Last (2016) September, somewhere in Kilinochchi, Sumanthiran said the “Draft Constitution is coming out, They are going to say Tamil Eelam is given out and you are going to say Tamil Eelam is not given”. Here we go again. With this same wave length of that! I understand the Sinhala Intellectuals are caught by Yasmin Sooka Syndrome. (In medicine, the new diseases are named with the scientist invented it or with a famous patient suffered by it)
Old King got 5.5 Million votes only! From where is this 12 Million is coming? May I know when did Ranil said that he asked for mandate to change the constitution and has got it so he will be taking steps to change it? Secret Solution is only a counter attack on UNHRC Resolution 30/1. It was never the continuation of the “100 days promise” given to TNA when Sobitha Thero and Chandrika asked for their support to CC. Old King closed the negations to constitutional change with TNA in January 2012, and asked Nimal Siri Pala de Silva to abolish the 13A taking Deva’s help. Indian FM Krishna, after eating Sinhala Mattu Pongal Pokkai, told to TNA they are bound to take what Old King wants to give. My question is, then, where the facts and figures of the insincere calculation of 12 Million is coming from?
Come on man! What is this comedy statement is going to achieve? If some Tamils fools are not yet fooled by Sampanthar’s Secret Solution, this essay is to fix them and make them to believe they are getting it?
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Mallaiyuran / October 28, 2017
If Tamils start to think that 12 Million want the constitution changed, then Ranil is going to change it? Is that why he dies to prevent Rome accord to be signed? Is that why he went to New York to fight with UN SG? Is that why he blocked Chandrika to change the constitution? All what he is looking for is Old King, Thero De Silva likes and Kandy Ayatollahs to rise up and liberate him from this new Yasmin Sooka syndrome epidemicity . The News I recently read said, as per Ranil: “Kandy Ayatollahs are not in the country; I am not cared of any mandate; I will not rule the country without they in the country;, when they come back I will talk with them to decide what to do?” While Ayatollahs’ Olympic power is mounted in Kandy and radiating the entire Ceylon Island leaving no fissure, can the author answer the question of “who the heck wants or has the people mandate”? Only one group, Kandy’s Keys-Monk decide what is good for Sinhala Buddhist Modayas; nobody else, not even Old King or his mandate!
Even Sampanthar so far has not put an argument to stress that Yahapalanaya promised him to change the constitution to devolve power to Tamils, But his guys is insisting as Old King is the one promised for Constitutional Change? Didn’t Old King walked out unilaterally in January, 2012? Now, what the heck the Tamils are asking from him? Is “no” mean not “no” for Tamils?
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Mallaiyuran / October 28, 2017
This author guy knows Ranil wouldn’t want to change the constitution. That is why he is on the look out to pass the blame on somebody else (like Old King, Ayatollahs or even on Thero de Silva) and save Ranil?
Chandrika promised twice to change the constitution. But she didn’t do it. Old King promised it two times in his Mahinda Chitanta. He did not do it. But he changed the constitution with 18Aand and made him as the Royalty Monarch of Lankawe and tried become EP for the third time. It is after changed into of 18A only this author guy started to believe the third time Old King is going to sincerely change it into a real democratic constitution and he voted for Old King? There was not one (Sinhala Buddhist) voter believed that Old King was standing for removal of EP and devolving power to Tamils. All the voters voted for him to cheat as many as he can get the votes to stop new King becoming president. It is absolute fraud and conspiracy of this author to interpret Old King had asked and obtained mandate to devolve power to Tamils. Within Sinhala Buddhist, nobody asked and nobody voted on that subject.
Let me ask question, because Sirimavo said they she will go to moon and bring rice, she went there? She called Nixon. He refused to give free rice. She invoked Buddhist curse to him and went to China and brought Jasmine rice for her.
May I ask when was the last time a Lankawe Political party was obligated to fulfill their election promise other than Yahapalanaya’s “No leader, No Commander, No Soldier will be prosecuted”. Can I ask the writer that he too believed that Old King is going to change the constitution and he voted for Old with other Modayas? Period!
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Mallaiyuran / October 28, 2017
If author didn’t believe old King and he didn’t vote for Old King, why this guy is thinks the Sinhala Buddhists voted for him only because he said he is going to change the constitution? May I ask what the purpose of this essay is and what the author thinks it is going to achieve? Honestly, my IQ is, in this matter is much below than our friend Amare suggested number 79. Please explain to me:” Is this guy going to take Old King to court and force him to spit out the mandate he obtained to Ranil so Ranil can change the constitution?” I thought Yasmin Sooka syndrome infected Colombo and diaspora based Sinhala Intellectuals only, but has it infected the Tamil Modayas too? Is the writer is doing this for self-satisfaction of have put big logical debate on whether Old King is for or not constitutional Change? Ranil, New King and Chandrika, who promised 100 days solution, is now throwing it up but, this guy is trying to stick it into the mouth of Old King? What foolishness is this?
When Ex. American State Secretary tried to destroy Old King (and TNA) to bring up UNP, Ranil went to Temple Tree House and saved Old King. It is a mutual agreement between Old King and Ranil that Ranil saves Old King and Old King has to save Ranil in return. Now, all the Lankaweyans are infected by Yasmin Sooka syndrome (including Tamils and Muslims). So it is Old King time is opposing the constitutional change and save Ranil. What was promised in election is not an issue. No more UNP-SLFP duo, JC Yahapalanaya Duo only! Secret Solution is only to keep the promise of not to punishing any criminals. It is not something to implement any time in future.
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K.Pillai / October 28, 2017
Arun Kumaresan – Air Vice Marshal (Ret’d) quotes MR’s pledge in Jan 2015 – “…….I will take action to formulate a new Constitution………..”.
The very same MR also claimed that HIS soldiers carried a boon on human rights in one hand. The man also claimed that SL does NOT have minorities and so on.
Arun starts the article with ~ “Recent callous utterances of a ‘uncivilized and barbaric’ nature, threatening to bomb the parliament and kill those engaging in the democratic process of constitutional reforms …………”.
These threats came from honourable men like Retired Major General Kamal Gunaratne (at a meeting chaired by GR), Wimal ilk.
The paragraph goes on ~ “………and fear mongering to the extent such persons will be dishonorably cremated similar to the era of anarchy in 1988/89,….”.
In the 1956 election, SWRD B promoters claimed that with help from treacherous Tamils, India is just about ready to invade the then Ceylon. That worked! Today it is this New Constitution and this may work again.
Looks like the mindset is here to stay. Politicians will continue to get wealthier and wealthier.
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D .Nimal / October 29, 2017
The current uncertainties of Sri Lankan Democracy and Development of Parliamentary politics has lost that Rule of the Majority. As long as the Will of Majority is not clear ,as long as it was possible to make it out to be unclear.
In political terms of that at least with a grain of plausibility ,the PEOPLE were offered a that UNP govt. counter-revolutionary capitalist governances instead of that ” Good governance & rule of Law” of that its disguised and undermined whole democratic process in an Island.
While this delay tactics of UNP which postpone of local govt. . elections and Provincial council elections could not last long.
During last 34 months that have passed since 2015 January 8th, WILL of the majority of people all nationalities that majority nation population has become clear in more than common senses that Current rules of UNP will suppressed Right to Vote. Their will has founded expression of deputies of councils has been discarded by UNP led MS govt.?
What is that UNP an idea of Right to Vote has been indefinitely postpone? What their meaning of an opposed give power transfer to councils of local deputies ?
Such postpone means NOTHING, but Renouncing basic Rights of Sovereignty of the People-oriented democracy?
Now UNP-leadership that they talk on “grand Power devolution” of all Provincial Councils?
These policies of UNP’s hipcorcies of democracy ,it means no more, no less than impossible on the democratic government, which that an admittedly can neither come into being nor hold its ground democratically that which result of truly FREE, and genuine popular elections? .
The previous MR alliance said received bribes of billions of US dollars is a lie. a completed ,vulgar lie by UNP, MS and CBK leadership? Indeed UNP counter -revolution thriving on the absence of democracy of authartiton rule of governance by passing supremacy Parliamentary type of governances by Ranil Wick and CBK?.
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Sarrij / November 1, 2017
An exercise in futility: local, scheming, politicians trying to reinvent the wheel.
The average IQ in SL is 79; the normal being 100.The voter is easily fooled and the chaos will continue; no need for rocket science!
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