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Let Us Act Decisively In The Name Of Generations To Come: Declaration By Dons On 2015 Presidential Election

The presidential election has been announced and each of us will be called upon to exercise our vote as citizens of this country on the 8th of January 2015.  It is our considered view that our country is at a historically important juncture at this moment and our decision at this election will have crucial implications for future generations. While we do not believe that all the changes we desire can be achieved overnight, or simply through a regime change, we believe strongly that this presidential election offers a window of opportunity to re-establish democracy, the rule of law and good governance and to address issues of social justice.

Mahinda MaithriWe note with extreme concern that in the past decade we have witnessed a breakdown of the rule of law and all norms of democracy and good governance and the concentration of both political and economic power in the hands of a few.

This has been particularly manifested in:

  • The unprecedented politicization of the judiciary and the manipulation of the judicial system which reached a crisis point with the unlawful impeachment of the former Chief Justice.
  • The political control over the police, lack of public accountability of the police force, and the alarming levels of human rights violations perpetrated by police personnel.
  • The intimidation of journalists and suppression of the free media
  • The breakdown of public institutions and services which are now mostly concentrated in the hands of the ruling elite. This breakdown has negatively impacted on our access to such institutions and services which is increasingly determined by the extent to which we can wield influence and power.  It has further resulted in public servants being subject to political manipulations, and being victimized for daring to demonstrate any form of independence.
  • The politicization of universities which are struggling to function in an environment of poor governance, infringement of academic autonomy and lack of basic funding.
  • The widening gap between the rich and poor –The poor whose only source of health facilities and education is the public sector are increasingly pushed to the margin and into the hands of the private sector.
  • Increasing intolerance of ethnic, religious and cultural diversity– ethnic and religious intolerance is being cultivated shamelessly in an effort to maintain the hegemony of the ruling elite. Mistrust among communities and groups and the deterioration in the protection and rights of minorities has spiraled.
  • Corruption, bribery and waste in connection with economic projects and the creation of a politicized business Mafia.
  • Violation of election laws – the complete violation with impunity of election laws has resulted in the impossibility of conducting free and fair elections.

We urge our fellow citizens to carefully consider not only the above but also the future of the country when exercising their civic duty. It is only the power of the people that can ensure the protection of democratic rights. The time has arrived for each of us to act decisively in the name of generations to come and cast our valuable vote for a candidate who has committed to:

  • Undertake major constitutional reform that prioritizes but is not limited to the

Abolishing of the Executive Presidency
Abolishing of the 18th amendment that opens the door to Presidency for life
Re-enactment of the 17th Amendment which ensured at least a modicum of independence of public institutions including the judiciary, the public service and the police.

  • Take concrete and meaningful measures to promote reconciliation and peace with justice and re-settle all displaced people in their places of origin.
  • Ensure that government allocates 6% GDP for Public Education and to put in place mechanisms to ensure the quality and standards of public education.
  • Substantially increase government spending on Public Health and to put in place mechanisms to ensure the quality and standards of public health.
  • Establish national policies on foreign relations, education, health and other important sectors and to ensure that these areas are served by professionals
  • Enact a Right to Information Act.
  • Protect media freedom.
  • Take measures to eliminate corruption, bribery, waste and the business Mafia.
  • Depoliticizethe public services and business sector.
  • Establish good governance devoid of nepotism and abuse of power.

We also make a strong appeal to the Election Commissioner to ensure a free and fair election and to intervene forcefully to prevent the violation of election laws and ensure the safety of all parties concerned. While we will exert pressure on those who are responsible to commit to these issues, we will continue to advocate for the implementation of these proposed constitutional and policy changes even after the presidential election.

 

Prof. S. B. S. Abayakoon University of Peradeniya
Dr. Upul Abeyrathne University of Ruhuna
Mr. H. V. D. I. Abeywickrama University of Ruhuna
Dr. S. K. M. Ali University of Ruhuna
Dr. Chandana Aluthge University of Colombo
Dr. Liyanage Amarakeerthi University of Peradeniya
Dr. Harini Amarasuriya Open University of Sri Lanka
Ven. Uduhawara Ananda University of Colombo
Mr. P. T. K. Arachchige University of Ruhuna
Dr. A. K. S. Aramabawaththa University of Peradeniya
Prof. S.A Ariadurai Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. Mojith Ariyaratne University of Peradeniya
Ven. T. Ariyawimala University of Ruhuna
Prof. D. Atapattu University of Ruhuna
Dr. S. Baduge University of Ruhuna
Prof. H. M. N. Bandara University of Peradeniya
Dr. S. Banneheke University of Peradeniya
Ms K Bulumulle Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. D.P Chandima University of Moratuwa
Dr. A. J. M. Chandradasa University of Ruhuna
Mr. D. C. Chandrasiri University of Ruhuna
Prof. H. W. Cyril University of Peradeniya
Prof. Kumar David Formerly Hong Kong Polytechnic Univ.
Mr. W. K. R. Dayalatha University of Ruhuna
Mr. Ravi de Mel Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. S. de Mel University of Peradeniya
Ms. D. M. R. Deepika University of Ruhuna
Prof G Delkumburewatte Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. R. M. K. Deshapriya University of Peradeniya
Dr. Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri University of Colombo
Prof. W. P. S. Dias University of Moratuwa
Mr. D. D. Dias University of Peradeniya
Ms. M. G. M. Dilrukshi University of Ruhuna
Ms. P. K. C. Dinesha University of Ruhuna
Prof. Lakshman Dissanayake Univeristy of Colombo
Dr. G. Edirisinghe University of Ruhuna
Dr. W. P. D. Fernando University of Peradeniya
Prof Rohan Fernando Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. Michael Fernando Formerly University of Peradeniya
Dr Theodore Fernando Open University of Sri Lanka
Prof. Lalith S. Fernando University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Mr. W. M. N. Fernando University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Dr. Anil Fernando University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Mr. Wijith Herath Fernando University of Kelaniya
Prof. E. A. G. Fonseka University of Ruhuna
Mr. Krishantha Fredricks University of Colombo
Mr. Kasun Gajasinghe University of Peradeniya
Dr. Ruwan Gallage University of Ruhuna
Mr. Indu Gamage University of Ruhuna
Ms. Lakmini Gamage University of Ruhuna
Dr V.V. Ganeshananthan Harvard University
Prof. Savitri Goonesekere Formerly University of Colombo
Mr. K. G. P. V. Gunarathna University of Ruhuna
Mr. R. R. P. K. Gunarathna University of Ruhuna
Dr. S. Gunarathne University of Peradeniya
Mr Chandika Gunasinghe University of Ruhuna
Mr. Ruvan Gunawardane University of Ruhuna
Dr. R. D. Guneratne University of Colombo
Prof. Camena Guneratne Open University of Sri Lanka
Prof. Dileni Gunewardena University of Peradeniya
Dr. Rangika Halwatura University of Moratuwa
Dr. Farzana Haniffa University of Colombo
Mr. E. H. M. Heenbanda University of Ruhuna
Mr. G. P. T. S. Hemakumara University of Ruhuna
Dr. K. R. B. Herath University of Peradeniya
Dr Shyamani Hettiarachchi University of Kelaniya
Dr S.R Hettiarachchi Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. N. K. Hettiarachchi University of Ruhuna
Dr. J. Hewage University of Ruhuna
Prof. P. Hewage University of Ruhuna
Dr. Rajan Hoole University of Jaffna
Dr. Kirupa Hoole University of Jaffna
Mr J.H.S.K. Jayamaha Open University of Sri Lanka
Ms. R. Jayaneththi University of Peradeniya
Mr. G. G. Jayarathne University of Moratuwa
Dr. T. Jayasingham Eastern University of Sri Lanka
Dr. R. D. Jayasinghe University of Peradeniya
Dr. Prabhath Jayasinghe University of Colombo
Dr. R. Jayasinghe University of Peradeniya
Dr. Vajira Jayasinghe University of Peradeniya
Dr. B. C. Jayawardana University of Peradeniya
Prof. U. de. S. Jayawardena University of Peradeniya
Dr. Janaki Jayawardena Univeristy of Colombo
Dr. Ananda Jayawickrama University of Peradeniya
Ms. H. A. C. Jeewanthi University of Ruhuna
Dr. Silan Kadirgamar University of Jaffna
Mr. S. Kahandagamage University of Ruhuna
Dr. Pavithra Kailasapathy University of Colombo
Dr. D. Karunanayake University of Peradeniya
Mr. M. S. M. Karunarathne University of Ruhuna
Dr. A. H. G. K. Karunaraththna University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Mr. A. C. Karunaratna University of Ruhuna
Dr. D. G. G. P. Karunaratne University of Peradeniya
Mr. Nandasiri Keembiyahetti University of Ruhuna
Prof G. Keerawella University of Peradeniya
Dr. S.I. Keethaponcalan University of Salisbury
Dr. S. P. Kodituwakku University of Peradeniya
Dr. Shamala Kumar University of Peradeniya
Prof. Vijay Kumar Formerly University of Peradeniya
Prof. N. S. Kumar Formerly University of Peradeniya
Dr. Kumudu Kusum Kumara University of Colombo
Mr. W. A. M. Kumara University of Ruhuna
Dr. P. A. P.S. Kumara University of Ruhuna
Prof. Amal S. Kumarage University of Moratuwa
Dr. Pivithuru Kumarasinghe University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Mr. W. M. R. Laksiri University of Ruhuna
Mrs. R. Liyanage University of Peradeniya
Prof. R. P. Mahaliayanaarachchi Sabaragamuwa University
Mr. R. Maheswaran University of Peradeniya
Ven.Dr. U. Mahinda University of Ruhuna
Dr. D. H. S. Maithripala University of Peradeniya
Ven. Makola Mangala University of Ruhuna
Dr. A. Manipura University of Peradeniya
Mr. S. Mantillake University of Peradeniya
Ms. Prabha Manuratne University of Kelaniya
Dr. A. L. M. Mauroof University of Peradeniya
Dr. Vivimarie V. Medwattegedera Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. Madhava Meegaskumbura University of Peradeniya
Dr. R. Meegaskumbura University of Peradeniya
Prof. Nayani Melagoda Univeristy of Colombo
Dr. Mahim Mendis Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. Iresha Mendis University of Peradeniya
Dr N. Morais Open University of Sri Lanka
Mr. M. S. Nanayakkara University of Ruhuna
Dr. B. G. T. L. Nandasena University of Peradeniya
Prof. A. M. Navaratna Bandara University of Peradeniya
Dr Vasuki Nesiah New York University
Mr. S. N. Niles University of Moratuwa
Prof. Mahesan Niranjan University of Southampton
Mr. K. S. G. S. Nishantha University of Ruhuna
Prof. M. A. Nuhman University of Peradeniya
Prof. Gananath Obeyesekere Formerly Princeton University
Prof. Ranjini Obeyesekere Formerly Princeton University
Dr. R. Palamakumbura University of Peradeniya
Mr. W. A. Palitha University of Ruhuna
Dr. R. W. Pallegama University of Peradeniya
Dr. Gihan Panagoda University of Peradeniya
Mr. Upali Pannilage University of Ruhuna
Prof. A. Parakrama University of Peradeniya
Dr. M. P. Paranagama University of Peradeniya
Dr. Dharmasena Pathiraja Formerly Univeristy of Colombo
Prof. S. D. Pathirana University of Peradeniya
Mr. L. K. K. Peiris University of Ruhuna
Dr. H. R. D. Peiris University of Peradeniya
Dr. P. Perera University of Peradeniya
Mr. K. E. D. Perera University of Ruhuna
Dr M.E.R Perera Open University of Sri Lanka
Prof. Kapila Perera University of Moratuwa
Dr. Himan Punchihewa University of Moratuwa
Dr. D. D. J. Punchihewa University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Mr. A. Rajapaksha University of Peradeniya
Mr. W. P. S. Rajapaksha University of Ruhuna
Prof. R. M. G. Rajapakshe University of Peradeniya
Prof. Dharma Rajapakshe University of Ruhuna
Mr. K. H. Ramanayake University of Ruhuna
Dr. H. Rambukwella Open University of Sri Lanka
Mr. R. A. S. P. Ranabahu University of Ruhuna
Dr. D. Randeniya University of Peradeniya
Mr. S. Rasnayake University of Peradeniya
Mr. R. M. D. D. Rathnayake University of Ruhuna
Mr Sithumini Ratnamalala University of Moratuwa
Dr. A. C. Ratnaweera University of Peradeniya
Dr. Prasanna Ratnaweera Open University of Sri Lanka
Mr. Rohana Ratnayake Open University of Sri Lanka
Dr. Anura Ratnayake University of Ruhuna
Mr. L. K. G. Roshana University of Ruhuna
Dr. A. J. Ruhunuhewa University of Ruhuna
Dr. T. S. Samarakoon University of Peradeniya
Attoney-at-Law D. Samararatne University of Colombo
Prof. Gameela Samarasinghe University of Colombo
Ms. Tanuja Sandanayake University of Moratuwa
Mr. A. P. Santhasiri University of Ruhuna
Dr. I. M. S. Sathyaprasad University of Peradeniya
Dr. Nihal Senanayake Open University of Sri Lanka
Mr. G. Senarath University of Ruhuna
Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi Sabaragamuwa University
Prof. K. G. S. C. Seneviratne University of Peradeniya
Prof. Rev. Agalakada Sirisumana Univeristy of Colombo
Dr. S. Sivamohan University of Peradeniya
Dr. Daya Somasundaram University of Jaffna
Dr. H. P. Sooriyaarachchi University of Ruhuna
Dr. H. N. S. Soysa University of Peradeniya
Dr. B. M. Sumanaratne University of Ruhuna
Mr. Chandraguptha Thenuwara University of Visual and Performing Arts
Dr. Sharika Thiranagama University of Stanford
Mr. Dayapala Thiranagama Formerly University of Kelaniya
Prof. Asanga Tilakaratne University of Colombo
Dr. N.  D. Udagama University of Peradeniya
Dr. D. Udakara University of Peradeniya
Dr. Anura Uthunmange University of Sri Jayawardenapura
Prof. Jayadeva Uyangoda Univeristy of Colombo
Dr. Vidura Vithana University of Ruhuna
Prof. Manjula Vithanapathirana University of Colombo
Dr. L. D. Sarath Vitharana University of Kelaniya
Ven. N. Wajiraghana University of Ruhuna
Prof. K. S. Walgama University of Peradeniya
Dr. S. K. Wanniarachchi University of Ruhuna
Prof. S. Wawwage University of Ruhuna
Dr H.L.D Weerahewa Open University of Sri Lanka
Prof. Ruwan Weerasekera University of Moratuwa
Dr. A. R. Weerasinghe University of Colombo
Prof. P. Wickramagamage University of Peradeniya
Prof. C. S. Wickramagamage University of Peradeniya
Prof. Maithri Wickramasinghe University of Kelaniya
Dr. J. V. Wijayakulasooriya University of Peradeniya
Ms. Gayatri Wijekoon University of Peradeniya
Mr. S. Wijeratne University of Ruhuna
Mr. Wimal Wijesinghe University of Ruhuna
Mr. W. A. N. D. Wijesinghe University of Ruhuna
Mr. T. R. Wijesundara University of Ruhuna
Dr. Tilak Wijesundara University of Ruhuna
Prof. R. L. Wijeyeweera University of Peradeniya
Mr. N. A. Wimalasena University of Peradeniya
Mr. P. H. Wimalasiri University of Ruhuna
Mr B.D. Witharana Open University of Sri Lanka

Prof. Laksiri           Fernando                 Formerly University of Colombo

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Latest comments

  • Poomail / December 14, 2014
    2
    13

    Wow! This is going to set the world on fire! Casually looking through the list of signatories before reading, found the names of Kumar David and Maithri Wickremesinghe!

    Looks like another bad joke of subversives and UNP operatives coming forward as a joint front of “academics”.

    Pull the other leg professors, doctors, and the large number of Mr.s who have signed the fraud.

    The country knows better than those “academics” who received a 300% pay rise recently (Rs 200000 a month) for taking one, one hour lecture a week in many cases.

    You can talk about fairness!

    /
    • Amarasiri / December 14, 2014
      6
      0

      Dear Prof. S. B. S. Abayakoon University of Peradeniya
      Dr. Upul Abeyrathne University of Ruhuna……
      …………………………………………………..
      Mr. P. H. Wimalasiri University of Ruhuna
      Mr B.D. Witharana Open University of Sri Lanka

      RE: Let Us Act Decisively In The Name Of Generations To Come: Declaration By Dons On 2015 Presidential Election

      “It is our considered view that our country is at a historically important juncture at this moment and our decision at this election will have crucial implications for future generations. While we do not believe that all the changes we desire can be achieved overnight, or simply through a regime change, we believe strongly that this presidential election offers a window of opportunity to re-establish democracy, the rule of law and good governance and to address issues of social justice.”

      The Common Man Congratulates you on this move. Informed fool will make a better decision than an ignorant non-fool. So, need to inform the fools and non-fools alike.

      That is what Thomas Paine did for the Americans on 1776, with the Common Sense Phamplet. What will you do for the Sri Lankans in 2014? Would you undertake to take on this project. The Anonymous Author could be called Lanka Paine. Only 3 weeks left. The current Sri Lankan writers masquerading as “Writers” are slow, and not up to par to undertake such a small writing mission.

      So Can you, as a group get this done and inform the Common man?

      Common Sense (pamphlet)

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Sense_%28pamphlet%29

      Story of the modern Hitler…

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=IKHJG5ztL68

      The Downfall (Der Untergang) in German ORIGINAL ENGLISH SUBTITLE, NOT A PARODY!

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YTePIi4arg

      -Amarasiri

      /
      • Poomail / December 15, 2014
        0
        0

        Keep your ‘pain’ leaflet bullshit away from my comment you brainless yankee boot licker.

        Try to be honest for once and find a brain ASAP to see that no one wants your Pain leaflet bullshit.

        Roll it and shove it up your rear end.

        /
        • Amarasiri / December 16, 2014
          0
          0

          Poomail

          Madu, Muttal, Modaya, you can decrease your Muttal ness.

          Understand why your IQ is close to 79.

          National IQ Scores – Country Rankings

          http://www.photius.com/rankings/national_iq_scores_country_ranks.html

          Rank
          ——– Country
          ———————– %
          ————-
          1 Singapore 108
          2 South Korea 106

          28 Sri Lanka 79
          28 Zambia 79

          /
      • Amarasiri / December 15, 2014
        0
        0

        The Conspiracy by Mahinda Medamulana and Gnansara MaRa

        mahinda’s brother – gnanasara

        The conspiracy

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwuUZEdBBqQ

        /
    • Amarasiri / December 14, 2014
      4
      0

      Dons,

      FYI

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=LVfvW_141kE

      Minister of Higher Education S.B. Dissanayaka, participating in a propaganda rally of UPFA candidate for the presidential election held at Nawalapitiya, said that Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa will win the election with a majority of 2500 million.

      This statement reveals how idiotically the Minister of Higher Education, who insults university students calling them dogs, donkeys and jackals, acts before Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa.

      The total population in Sri Lanka is 20.48 million while the number of voters is 15.4 million. Stating that someone would win by a majority of 2500 million is a clear indication of the person’s idiocy.

      2500 million is more than 33% of the world population. It is to such an idiot that the Ministry of Higher Education has been handed over.

      http://www.lankatruth.com/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7996:video-an-ass-opens-its-mouth-&catid=36:top-stories&Itemid=124

      /
    • Davidson Panabokke / December 15, 2014
      1
      0

      Those two happen to be academics and they will certainly sign

      /
      • Poomail / December 15, 2014
        1
        1

        Will you consider changing your name friend, before you correct the country’s ills.

        Davidson-panabokke looks like an “ela harak-mee harak” pairing. Sorry, it is ridiculous.

        Change it to Dharmadasa or some thing.

        /
  • Kanthar P Balanathan / December 14, 2014
    3
    4

    The dynasty and family governance in Sri Lanka begins with the first Prime Minister of Ceylon Don Stephen Senanayake of Senanayaka Mudaliyar dynasty. His son Dudley Shelton Senanayake succeeded him as Prime Minister in 1952, followed by another relative, Sir John Kotelawala in 1953. but this nine-year family dynasty was ended by a landslide victory for Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike in 1956, campaigning under the “Sinhala Only” slogan. Dudley Shelton Senanayake regained the Prime Ministership in 1960, and served again from 1965 to 1970. Rukman Senanayake, one of his grandsons, is a former cabinet minister, former chairman of the UNP, current member of parliament, and Assistant Leader of the UNP.

    It could be bluffed off that there were no other matured political candidates among the Ceylonese? Ceylon/SriLanka has practiced a dynasty culture, even though the country moved to democratic governance since independence.

    Following the implementation “Sinhala Only” policy, racial violence broke out in 1958, where Tamils in the South were raped, killed, and their properties looted & destroyed. It was a chaos in the island. In the following year, Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike was assassinated. Has there been any conclusive judgment and pronouncement on the person or gang who assassinated Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike? Why was he assassinated? Was Rule of Law” present then? Was killing of Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike, a national security issue, because the media was not propagating true events? Was the government accountable then?

    On the death of Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike, another dynasty begins, the Radala dynasty: Sirima Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike takes over power. It would be necessary to emphasize at this juncture that politics is the only profession/employment that does not entails a Job Specification and a Job Description. Although politicians take oath that they will work to the constitution, DO THEY? What was Srima’s qualification? Becuase she was Solomon West Ridgeway Dias Bandaranaike’s wife and she was born to a prominent Radala family, who were descended from Ratwatte Dissawa, Dissawa of Matale, she became as the Prime Minister.

    If the people have to vote for Radala/Nilame/Mudaliyar, qualification, then why do we bullshit about Democracy and Freedom”

    What happened during Sirima Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike’s time? Insurrection broke out in 1971. Sirima Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike ordered military to shoot to kill hundreds of thousands of Sinhala youth. Did Rule of Law” prevail during her time? NO!

    Since 1970, cost of living rose to a gargantuan level. Even to get a loaf of bread, people had to get permits, and wait in queues. People had to drink කහට තේ. It was a misery for the Sri Lankans. SriLankan were subjected to Absolute Poverty”. However, Sirima Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike was able to build a multimillion dollar Bandaranaike memorial Hall to preserve her prestige.

    Although Sirima Ratwatte Dias Bandaranaike’s motive was to make people to grow food, the mode of transportation was a failure.

    From 1977 to 1994 the capitalistic clan was in power. Junius Richard Jayewardene took power in 1977. As soon as Junius Richard Jayewardene took power racial riots broke out in 1977, with rapes, killings, colossal destruction to properties and loots.

    Following the devastating riots of 1977, another racial riot broke out in 1983. What happened to the Rule of Law in 1977 and 1983?

    The sixth amendment was passed in 1983 and a circular was issued on the August 18,1983. What happened to the Rule of Law?

    With lack of perception, and understanding of the counter-productive outcomes, and the economic corollaries, Junius Richard Jayewardene succeeded in pawning the country to the Indians by signing the 13th amendment in 1987.

    Sequentially, the performance of subsequent President Ranasinghe Premadasa was to mass slaughter JVP youth using his Black Cats”.

    The Bandaranaike dynasty returns to power in 1994. Chandrika Bandaranaike assumes power as the President. Chandrika Bandaranaike is claimed to have qualifications as follows. Chandrika was educated at the St Bridget’s Convent, Colombo, and at the Aquinas University College Colombo where she studied for the bachelor of laws. The only fact we could see is that Aquinas College do not have a degree program in Law.

    In 1995, LTTE took control of Vanni and established administration. LTTE leader Vellupillai Prabakaran continued to build his military and weaponry with the help of Ranasinghe Premadasa, Ranil Shriyan Wickremasinghe and the subsequent governments.

    Let us address Democracy”. Definition of Democracy? Government of the people, by the people, for the people, direct or representative; State having this form of society ignoring hereditary class distinctions and tolerating minority views.

    Democracy is defined as a set of principles and practices that protect human freedom. It is defined as the institutionalization of freedom. It is also said as to rest upon fundamental principles, not uniform practices. It is also known that Democratic societies are committed to the values of tolerance, cooperation, and compromise.

    Democracy is said to subject governments to the Rule of Law, which ensures all citizens are protected under the Law, and their rights are protected by the Legal system.

    It is also a reality that democracy recognizes diversity as an enormous asset, treats these differences in culture, identity, and values as a challenge, which can strengthen and enrich, however, not as a threat.

    It is known that political parties have faith in the principles of democracy to recognize and respect the authority of the elected government even if they are not in power.

    All democratic political parties, whether small or large national coalitions should share the values of tolerance and compromise. Leadership and vision can be provided only through broad alliances with other political parties, which will win the support of the people of the nation. In democracy, political parties struggle is not for survival through fights, but a competition to serve the people.

    SriLanka failed in the principles of democracy. Even, political parties were formed on racial grounds. Innocent Sri Lankans lack in political maturity, lack of understanding in the National Security issues, which drives them to partisan politics.

    SriLankan should ask a question: What is patriotism? Are we patriotic? What is National Security? Why should we be concerned about National Security? Since independence, the country has been fleeced and divided, however, not socially integrated, and the country was subjected to threat to national security. The current opposition leader failed attempts to become the President. The Opposition fails to even select a candidate to contest for the Presidential election. For years, internal conflicts drove them to enmity between party members. Key members of the opposition group has paranoia to contest, as they feel demise, and loss of respect among supporters. Junius Richard Jayewardene’s nephew Ranil Shriyan Wickremasinghe does not want to give up his leadership voracity and hence is holding on to the position. Isn’t that dictatorial?

    Current opposition politics is seen as Pallewatte Gamaralalage Maithripala Yapa Sirisena is contesting on behalf of Ranil Shriyan Wickremasinghe, because Ranil Shriyan Wickremasinghe is scared to contest. Ranil Shriyan Wickremasinghe imagines that he could attain a powerful position of PM with the Presidential system abolished. Once a Pallewatte Gamaralalage Maithripala Yapa Sirisena amasses power, can we think that Pallewatte Gamaralalage Maithripala Yapa Sirisena will give up his position to someone in another block? Isn’t that an imprudent, ridiculous assumption?

    If SriLankans are wise enough, they could understand with pure reasoning, this election philandering, and laugh off. Following are specific election promises: As Sri Lankans we face several grave challenges. The country, which was once seen as a model of democracy, has degenerated in recent years into a place where its citizens cannot live with dignity and in safety. Among the manifestations of this situation are: The total breakdown of the Rule of Law, The erosion of democratic institutions essential for governance, An unprecedented widening of social disparities and social injustices, A severe strain on co-existence among different ethnic and religious communities and increasing disharmony and distrust. In this situation, the following program is presented so as to re-establish democracy, good governance, social justice and the rule of law. Accordingly, it is proposed that the present authoritarian and corrupt regime be defeated by fielding a common candidate acceptable to all those in agreement with the programme. The immediate tasks will be implemented within a hundred days. They include the abolition of the current executive presidency and the re-establishment of a parliamentary form of government and the rest of the programme to be implemented through a new Parliament.

    Sri Lanka never, ever, practiced real democracy. The Bandaranaike dynasty and the Senanayake dynasty were elected to rule the country. The innocent people of Sri Lanka were brain washed and mind set to vote for Bandaranaike dynasty and Senanayake dynasty. Lack of common sense drove the people to be cheated for 56 years of post-independence.

    Breakdown of Rule of Law was experienced during the governments of the Bandaranaike dynasty and the Senanayake dynasty. During the period 1958, 1977 & 1983 the country faced breakdown in the Rule of Law. Lack of wisdom and improper practice of Rule of Law, by the governance gave birth to fight for separation by the Tamils. Has Pallewatte Gamaralalage Maithripala Yapa Sirisena ever visited Jaffna after 2009?

    It would be wise to analyze the post-independence era governance to make judgement of dictatorial and authoritarianism practices.

    SriLankan should ask a question. Did we practice Rule of Law, Accountability, and democratic principles from 1948 to 1970 – 2004? Who benefited from the governance? All the rich became richer and the poor became poorer and were victimized.

    Why has Pallewatte Gamaralalage Maithripala Yapa Sirisena gone into another platform whose ideology, totally differs. It is obvious that power avidity, power hunger, power thirst has allowed the opposition to accept a different person from another ideological platform as a common candidate. Pallewatte Gamaralalage Maithripala Yapa Sirisena whose ideology totally differs from that of the opposition has entered into another platform.

    Today any woman from the South can freely walk on the streets of Jaffna, and a woman from Jaffna can freely walk on the streets of Matara. Isn’t that a country needs in terms of unification co-existence, and social integration.

    SriLanka needs a President fulfilling people’s ambition of economic growth, economic integration, social integration, rule of law, accountability, business growth, industrialization, independent freedom, elimination of social disparity, and mainly maintain NATIONAL SECURITY, and unification of SriLanka.

    /
  • Nalliah Thayabharan / December 14, 2014
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    [Edited out]
    We are sorry, the comment language is English – CT

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  • justice / December 14, 2014
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    Names of the Hirimburegamas are not in the list.
    The lady offered honorary degrees and got promoted first, and then the husband got his promotion.
    They clearly want the present regime for their survival.

    All dons reflect the wishes of the educated people in sri lanka.
    But unfortunately mostly uneducated people decide, mainly on promises of candidates and, other ‘persuasions’.

    The Election Commissioner has blocked access to declarations of assets by candidates before the election – clearly “as directed” – he, also has to survive.

    /
  • Sirimal / December 14, 2014
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    This is great act – almost every right respecting ones will follow you.
    There is no other option than say good bye to the man who ruined the rule of law and order in this country who is no body else – Mahinda Rajapakshe.

    Here you may feel that he put the stop to the terror that held 30 years, but it was just the victory of the relay race his predecessors also contributed for example CBK sacrificing her left eye.

    I hope all other professionals will bring alike statements including lawyers of the country too. That then strengthen the view of the general public across counry. After all rural folks should be provided with all the facts and figures making them clear as to why we need a change at this critical juncture of the countrys politics.
    Last night after watching Satana of this week – I felt, almost every candidates present there convinced the nation that there is no other option Rajapakshes should be removed from the governance.

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  • Ansar / December 14, 2014
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    A picture says a thousand words. Just look at the two faces, one resemble total deceit and the other full of purpose. I do not intend to say who is who and leave it to the readers to identify.

    It is good to see so many University Professors coming out in numbers to educate the masses as to what is at stake in this crucial election.

    I wish that this reaches the mainstream Sinhalese media to have a wider coverage. It looks like there is a silver lining, beneath the dark clouds.

    Hope and wish that, we could see the light of the day on 9th Jan/14. The day would be worth celebrating marking the end of tyranny and the re-dawn of democracy to our thrice blessed beautiful country.

    /
  • Pot Shot / December 14, 2014
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    What an endorsement from the intellects. Also goes to show the failure of SB as the minister of education.

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  • dcn / December 14, 2014
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    Well analysed article. There is a fair amount of corrections to be done at the political level which has to be done with a matter of urgency before it is too late by the new president/government. As being proclaimed by Ranil at several public meetings it would be ideal to have a national government for a limited period to make all above happen in the future interest of the country and it’s people.

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  • srilal / December 14, 2014
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    Dear Sirimal ,

    Here is a little good news ,at least 550k votes have been saved from possible rigging by the corrupt officials , bravo ,well done Mr Deshapriya .

    “Polls chief to thwart plan to rig postal voting”

    http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141214/news/polls-chief-to-thwart-plan-to-rig-postal-voting-132616.html

    /
    • Sirimal / December 15, 2014
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      Thanks Srilal :)

      Let s hope the best. I wonder why Gommanpila making every efforts to support the despot regime ?
      Those who supported his previous campaigns with 100 bugs have to rethink now.

      /
  • truth / December 14, 2014
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    Better late than never!! Why did they wait this long to act? Why did the “defectors” and “hoppers” waited for such a long time?

    May be they waited till it affected the majority community!! Any way hope something good will come out of this.

    /
  • douglas / December 14, 2014
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    A GOOD and hopefully a PROMISING attempt. This AWAKENING by the educated class is very encouraging. This is what we missed and lacked for a long period of time, say, for decades. Sorry to say, the men and women of this class have been made “slaves” of the rulers and in very many instances “prostituted” to achieve the hidden agenda of the politicians. So it is time for this class to break the shackles and free themselves and take the lead in helping the people to achieve their political, social, economic goals. This class of men and women must shape the destinies of the country and then only we can be proud and contended with the nett results achieved in the public investment on Free Education. Please do not allow the country and the people to go into deep sleep after an election and try to wake them at the announcement of another election. That course must be redefined and redirected and in that process you must take the lead even forgoing the material comforts you might cry for. Please consider it as a call of duty by the people for the country.

    Incidentally, how I cannot find the name of a very prominent person viz. Prof. Sarath Wijesuriya of the University of Colombo. He must be contacted and asked for his cooperation, because of his capability in addressing issues very close to the ordinary people in the country. His life experiences beginning from among the very ordinary village level people would be of inestimable value towards this course. If the readers could get hold of a book written by him titled “THATHA” (Father) translated to number of foreign languages, you will understand the truth of what I stated here.

    Thank you Dons and I implore with other Professionals to join in this call of duty by the people.

    /
  • Ajith / December 15, 2014
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    I don’t think writing in CT is going to do the job. We need awareness of the people and convincing the Sinhalese people that this election is not against politics but it is against the regime that destroyed the rule of law and justice to the people. Mahinda’s prime propaganda is about Western coup against SriLanka. Sinhalese people are poised with lies over lies in the past by both parties and it is very difficult to counter this propaganada with just this slogan.These Dons should create a massive rural force using the student force to convince that the country will not survive and all Sinhalese will suffer if this regime continues and regimes focus only about one family and not the people. The opposition candidate and the former Military commander must know lot of facts and they should reveal the truth, particularly the corruption.

    /
    • Kshama / December 15, 2014
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      Exactly so. Lets hope that this statement has been published in all three languages so that everyone Sri Lankan hears about it. My thoughts are the same on these academics taking their message to the voters. Statements alone do not help. To ensure a change for the better, everyone must take it upon themselves to educate the other.

      /
  • punchinilame / December 15, 2014
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    This PE is being finanaced by China in a subtle way by inflating the
    Contract charges for Highway development. Public Officers in the
    Treasury and the Central Bank should be well aware of the modus-
    operandi. Only the incumbent Candidate benefits from this.

    With all the regulations re the Declaration of Assets Form, I wonder
    if there is any prohibition in all the 18 Candidate VOLUNTARILY making
    public of its contents. The very aim for this provision in the
    Election laws, was as a precaution against corruption?

    Will not this simple and elementary tactic not bring into the open the incumbents and his family assets! A much needed information prior to
    endorsing a 3rd term, which 10 of his Judges agree to.

    /
  • ramona therese fernando / December 15, 2014
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    Hmm…..when I see Lankan university Dons’ signatures, I automatically connect them to US universities…..(might have deeper implications).

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  • Kirri Yakka / December 15, 2014
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    This list looks authentic because it has no dons from the University of Bejing .

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  • CHANAKYAN / December 15, 2014
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    So great of the academic community to have into the open to demoilsh an execrable despotism

    Dayan Jayatilleke’s “Vbrant Democracy” where the DEMOS cannot even access popular websites like Colombo Telegraph.

    /

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