The increasing momentum in the civil society for calls to abolish Sri Lanka’s Executive Presidency marked a milestone today, as politicians representing various opposition parties participated in the launch of the ‘Road Map’ to abolish the Executive Presidential System and reactivate the 17th amendment by the National Movement for Social Justice headed by Maduluwawe Sobhitha thera.
The event that was held today was attended by the most unlikely of figures to convene together to which included former President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Opposition Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, Democratic Party Leader Sarath Fonseka, TNA leader R. Sampanthan, TNA MP M. A. Sumanthiran, JVP MP Sunil Handunneththi and the Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake.
With just months left for the next Presidential elections, Maduluwawe Sobhitha thera who is rumoured to be the most likely Common candidate at the upcoming elections said, “The present constitution is being rejected by the masses each day and the calls to abolish the Executive Presidency have been made not just by politicians but also religious leaders due to the increasing crises that have plagued the country due to unlimited political power being concentrated in the hands of a single individual.”
Senior legal practitioner and constitutional law expert Dr. Jayampathy Wickramaratne speaking of the ‘Road Map’ that was launched today said they are not calling for mere promises of abolishing Executive Presidency, but for a system where the newly elected President should abolish the Executive Presidential system within six months of being elected.
“A legal draft of the proposed plan should be presented instead of simply including it in the election manifesto of the Common Candidate,” he said adding a ‘rainbow alliance’ needs to be established in order to effectively implement the ‘Road Map’ as planned.
Meanwhile, Head of Department of Law – University of Peradeniya Dr. Deepika Udagama speaking on Constitutional amendments and the Executive Presidency said there is no argument on the fact that Executive Presidency should be abolished and added as for constitutional reforms, she is strictly against ‘tinkering with the constitution’.
“There is a need for effective Constitutional changes to be implemented upon consultation with the masses, instead of the amendments remaining the exclusive subject of the people’s representatives,” she said.
Ajith / July 25, 2014
Unite the Nation, Unite the people, Liberate the Nation from Dictatorship, Liberate the people from oppression, Liberate the Country from corruption, Liberate the justice system.
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mechanic / July 25, 2014
Ven. Sobitha knows its a lost cause. And that’s why he doesn’t look very happy!
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Native Vedda / July 25, 2014
mechanic
“Ven. Sobitha knows its a lost cause. And that’s why he doesn’t look very happy!”
He is sad probably thinking about your stupidity.
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Leelagemalli / July 26, 2014
Most respectful NV:
You are dead right.
Most rev. Sobitha thero is sad because he knows that many in today’s society are stupid. Those who have the power to do something against the megalomaniac -MR regime stay further mum for only reason that they are fear of any personal attacks. MR thugs proved it in Sapugaskanda, Hambanthota or any other places how they could animate poor of the poor by distributing rice packets. Else, I really dont know why Sapugaskanda people gathered demonstrated against the fact finding mission of the young UNP MPs. Those MPs risked their lives while I myself watched the way, those poster holders attacked them. This is unfortunately the reality before the opposition today.
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Thiru / July 26, 2014
Rats are out trying to bell the cat. Cat knows how to deal with the rats: Kill them one by one. Sa-rat, the rat knows only too well.
One meow is enough to get the hell out of the rats scurrying to their holes:
The cat knows how to meow to the Sinhalese voters, the rats don’t!
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Simonappu Bandara / July 25, 2014
[Edited out] Rajapakshe should be [Edited out] . Time has come – enough is enough
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Pandukabaya / July 26, 2014
Mechanic is worried about Ven. Sobhitha himi.
I am sure Mara cursing everyone and everything at TT.
Mechanic, FYI I have arrived thru the same Colombo Airport again and still waiting for your immigration guys to catch me with the help of that ‘gadget’ you have mentioned to catch me.
Your Boss, the Murderer and abductor Gota will have to seek a psychiatrist’s help. He will anyway end up in a mental asylum so you can join him too.
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Sama / July 26, 2014
Pandukabaya, that Viktor IWAN the Katussa has been trying to make it worst. He attacks CBK, but in the same time not uttering a single word against MR who is almost an open killer to everyone s eyes today.
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Flycatcher / July 26, 2014
Sobitha hamuduruwo’s unhappy look is more important to you of all things? Sobitha hamuduruwo and Chandrika Bandaranaike is planning to hold island wide awareness programs of the same sort. If so Ranil could smoothly sail through. JVP will score one third of regime votes. UNP votes will not be divided this time around. That’s according to Gota’s Buddhi fellows.
Mahinda settapochche. Sivurru Hora Aba saranai.
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whywhy / July 26, 2014
mechnic
You think we have reached self sufficiency in
stupidity faster,thanks to the expressways?
Well,if all the leaders in the country,with a
highly placed monk coming forward are, ignored
“Abasaranai” to the country then.
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AVB / July 25, 2014
I guess now MR will say that he will call referendum after the election to get the people mandate to abolish presidency. So what? MR will get Dinesh Gunawardane and Mohan Peiris to rewrite the constitution, PM will be Finance, Defence and Bla bla Minister… Still the independent/royal commissions, CG, AG will be appointed by PM… So what the heck… MR has so many trump cards to play with Stupid-Sinhalese majority unless there is internal family issues like Ghota become hungrier on power…
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Sama / July 26, 2014
In today s context, srilanka s sitaution is almost like that of Pakistan.
So all these leaders should be aware of the danger before them. I really dont want CBK to risk her life with MR and all rascal minded ones being against to her returning to politics. Sobitha Thero could work together with CBK since he still respect former SLFP ones than the once in power today. MR is SLFP but he has created a new violent cutlure under his accharru parliamenT/REGIME
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Sama / July 25, 2014
Grreat great. simily great.
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Peace Lover / July 25, 2014
well i certainly hope the common candidate is a vellala chap if not our very own vellala chieftain K A Sumansekeras (LEELA)mood will get upset ;-)
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Flycatcher / July 26, 2014
What’s that Aussie resident moron Gammanpila doing here?
Has Sumana got any answer?
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sirimal / July 25, 2014
This means we still have the hope. Our common aim should be defeating Rajapakshes and allow any good leader to form a new govt.
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burt / July 25, 2014
Nice to see some wishful thinking but the realities on the ground are far from it. The way I see it there is going to be more than two candidates contesting, this will happen even if there is only one from the group claiming to put a common candidate, we will have at least one planted by the govt to split the vote and you will see MR winning.
So unless internal and external pressure is exerted to remove Exe. Presidency or at least trim its powers by another amendment to the constitution it is “as is” for the foreseeable future.
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sirimal / July 25, 2014
But I wonder how the organizers made this possible with all prominent representatives of the country are seen here. As you know today environment created by MR and his goons leave no space any opposition thought bearers to organize anything.
Srilanken socialist democratic republic HAS turned to a Srilanken socialistic facistic Republic
They the rulers would have killed, CBK, RW and all others for their political surivival if INTERNTIONAL coMMUNITIES were not close to them. Looking at the manner MR regime reacts proved their nature not once thousands of times sofar, but the common man may need more time to see the clear picutre. Latter is the problem that opposition faces today.
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Sama / July 25, 2014
Afterall tamil leaders and SF sitting together is a good sign for A CHANGE. Even moderate JVPers have joined the common event.
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Simonappu Bandara / July 26, 2014
That says, SF and his army anhiliated the LTTE terror – but today, TNA ‘s intentions are permanent peace but peace for tamils and the entire srilankens. Govt intreprets this totally different creating new form of violent culture. I believe, UNP, CBK UPFA fraction and any senior professionals and ones totally disgree with the current facist regime can do more if they would build up a united coalition. CBKs terms did not allow her to abolish EP, but today, almost everyone wants EP to be abolished – that will be a reality by any new govt.
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Pandukabaya / July 26, 2014
Yes its a positive sign to see those leaders sitting together for a good course but where was Anura Kumara? This is where I don’t trust the JVP.
Why cant they cut the crap and come to the point. All that people want is a RW+CBK combination.
Having said that glad to that at least, at last that these people are in a common room.
This would make Mara wet his sarong.
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sirimal / July 26, 2014
Pandu long time no see. I am glad your comments are appeareing here again. Please add more as you can. As you said, all we want is CBK + RW+ and others to come together building a coalition. There is no other wayout to come of out the pit the general public is fallen today. Let s Jaya wewa for all those who make every effort to get this bloodiest idiot -MR from our sights.
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Sama / July 26, 2014
But some feel CBK is in danger today.
Looking at the manner, that MR regime did even respect her call very recently – while asking to work in religious reconciliation. I too believe – to the manner Benasir Butto was gunned down, they the barbaric regime lead of MR will do so – since the idiot in power is proved to be a killing friendly barbaric as no any lanken previous leaders sofar.
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R. Varathan / July 26, 2014
Is the impossible in the process of happening – Unity among the political leaders to be followed within the people? It is just
about time – after 30+ years of senseless bloodletting.
Sri Lanka deserves to be united, peaceful and prosperous despite the presence of the necessary evil – the poltikka.
R. Varathan
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wathie / July 25, 2014
Look at their faces. They’re laughing at each other; ready to stab others behind their back.
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Leelagemalli / July 25, 2014
It is just because everyone there is feared of probable attacks planned by MR goons.
If you are not born yesterday, you should have known that.
But even to die, they the ones have risked this should be commendable. Today s situation as we are all aware – like caught by a MARAYA – the dragon born to harm own folk
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sirimal / July 25, 2014
Srilal@,
please add your thoughts to this thread. Now I have some more time to return to CT.
Comments of yours, NV, Gamini, Silva and the other few are most valuable right at this point of time to send the message across the LOCALs AND IC
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srilal / July 26, 2014
Dear Sirimal ,
i would hate to be cynical at this remarkable gathering , but my instincts say some thing else Sirimal( sorry to disappoint ) , Ranil is the most cunning person among all of them , he would not budge unless he is assured the biggest chunk of the outcome of any eventuality , so he would try all the tricks in the book to secure his position before committing any thing , let’s face it , what options Ranil has got ? Ranil has only two ultimate goals to full fill , no matter what he wants to be at the top position , that is either the president position /prime minister ship or his permanent opposition leadership position , it is highly unlikely that CBK is volunteering herself just to chase MR and hand over the mantle to Ranil , of course she has long term plans too , then the JVP factor , New leader AKD is not in a mighty hurry to capture the power as he knows his limitations , “once bitten twice shy ” is the proverbial phrase comes to AKD’s mind more often than not , JVP supported CBK to come to power and to abolish the EP , next JVP supported MR to come to power and abolish the EP , both instances JVP had been humiliated and shown the door , will JVP like to work under Ranil or CBK ? my guess , they prefer to keep the current Status quo as is and let the mayhem continue for for another 3 to 5 years and then set their agenda to grab the power , that time srilankan citizens would do any thing to get rid of MR dictatorship , Gen SF is not the same Gen SF who were in the prison few years ago , his popularity has been diminished due to various reasons ( lack of media exposure , prominent figures’ departure (Arjuna , Tiran, UNP and JVP etc )nonetheless he will support CBK/Ven Sobitha as he wants to see MR’s demise . TNA and other parties will support who ever comes forward to chase MR . as for CJ shirani B , she is not a well known figure among the rural communities in SL and hence can’t expect major voting pattern changes from them, nevertheless her presence will certainly attract more urban voters towards the coalition.
My sincere wish is to see CBK/Ven Sobitha combo contesting the election as a coalition consisting of all the political parties under the 17 th Amendment and the presence of international election monitors , let’s hope for the best Sirmal.
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paul / July 25, 2014
considering sri lanka’s golden era under CBK presidency and RW premiership, we can at last have hope in our soles and something good will come out of this “hath-hawula”…
reminds me the old the saying “start the day with a live frog for breakfast, nothing worse will happen during rest of the day”
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Simonappu Bandara / July 25, 2014
Yes, looking back we could call it as GOLDEN ERA, because, today, not only UNP but even SLFPers remain in fears. Her days with the war at its heights – people did not have fears of today s kind. Today, ballahs have raised their heads while all others are compelled to stay in silent mode. Talk to senior professionals of the country, there you will get more about their fears. Domocracy has eroded all appalling levels as people cant heart out their problems. Problems that they never experienced before.
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paul / July 26, 2014
Dear appu, that (weather the citizens are living in fear or not) we will seen through the next presidential election results and not by reading through the pages of an online newssheet. Of course you will say it is rigged when your side loses – again :-)
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Leelagemalli / July 26, 2014
If Rajapakshe would be reelected, it will be clear that an assasination will remove him out of our sights. People hate MR today than had never been before. He always tells something else and does the opposite. He has lost his cotroll over Gotabaya as we heard lately, MR has no balls to stand before the countries problems while his siblings are on a struggle to jump up to their power greedy agendas. See the situation before Mahithreepala sirisena, he himsself says, he is under threat today than had never been before, WHILE that Mr 50% makes every effort to become a next PM for the nation. Sirisena ‘s arguments are with the majority of the folks that know there were decent politicians in SLFP in earlier days.
We cant change your thoughts even if your families would have been openly harmed by MR goons, that is your nature, however, yours will become just one of the fraction in the current society.
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K.A Sumanasekera / July 25, 2014
This looks like a gathering of the Retired, Retrenched, Rejected and Recycled !!!!.
Still a good cross section to remind the inhabitants of their good times.
For example LTTE proxy Vellala , Venerable Sobitha , and Mr Wickremasinghe represent the stability, and harmony our inhabitants enjoyed in the past in the North and Aranthalawa when Mr Solheim was calling the shots.
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Peace Lover / July 25, 2014
are they all vellala’s otherwise you will get upset neda K A Sumanssekera (LEELA) ?
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Sunil Mohan / July 25, 2014
The gathering is of Charismatic , confidant , courageous, committed , constitutional etc.
Not in the way as you think
If you don’t like its okay , we will loose one vote only
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MrRetort / July 25, 2014
Aranthalawa man is with Mahinda.
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Kakka / July 25, 2014
As usual the donkey brays!
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Kettikaran / July 26, 2014
Sumane,
Nonetheless with all the rotten non-governance we’ve had in the past 6 years or so run by crooks, drug-traffickers, killers and the like
the politicos in the frontline (Ranil W, CBK and Fonsy) in the picture seem to be refreshed, rejuvenated and legally resolved to topple the
illegal Rajapakse familial rule. That will please the ears of India, the UK, USA, the UN and who else.
If that happens you might get your oft-dreamed Vellala bride from Jaffna – provided you are G. Some of these leaders might be there for the thali ceremony at Nallur Kandasamy Kovil. That won’t include Ex-Gen. Chandrasiri, who at any rate, has no business to be there – officially.
Kettikaran
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K.A Sumanasekera / July 26, 2014
Kettikaran,
Poor Chandrasiri will need a protection Visa from a country, where there is no Diaspora, when your Front Line gives Vellalas their own TNA Police.
Vellalas I believe, live in Jaffna only for Business , Politics and Pleasure.
And they always keep their precious cargo in Colombo since the Liberator took over in the 80s.
Poor Dalits, after being captives wiould only have immitation Thalis.
Perhaps the LTTE proxy Sambandan should consiider givig these poor Northern inhabitants a free Thali each,from Diaspora funds , after Reverend Sobitha implodes himself in the President’s chair and make your Front Line Leader Ranil W, the executive PM.
The problem is, will his cousin accept a lesser position?.
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Lapatiya / July 25, 2014
Hmmm…..It seems Mr. Jagath Balapatabadi’s Bribery commission will have more more work again. I am sure within another couple of days there will be a call for Dr. Shirani Bandaranayaka from Bribery Commission for some mistake she has done inn her previous birth.
There will be too much “Athe Roll” from Govt. Independent and other Rajapaksha Medias against Ranil and Sambandan and probably we have to expect sudden “Sri Pathi Suriarachchi” kind accidents also.
Any way nice to see all these important people in one stage. Rajapaksha days are numbered and may be he is seeing more and more “Gok Kola”
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roy / July 25, 2014
MaRa’s astrologer is busy preparing new magic , I see Mara carrying a Gold gadget in his hand showing his black magic in public , will he have to visit another country for better luck.
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mechanic / July 25, 2014
There sits the five who keep failing continuously.
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mike / July 26, 2014
@ mechanic
You seem to be having a mechanical problem! Join Elu Kolla for a change??
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Native Vedda / July 26, 2014
mechanic
“There sits the five who keep failing continuously.”
There is no VP to support their candidacy nor an Election Commissioner who is willing to win an election for them.
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Flycatcher / July 26, 2014
Mechanic, Why don’t you suggest your Maha eka to disrupt this union using some stolen Tsunami funds/LTTE wealth. Hire Taran Alles again.
While the Hippocrates JHU with the regime that guy with Juda’s smile Gommanpillai is performing a natak.
Sumbamanian LoonySwami Srilankan version.
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S,Sivathasan / July 25, 2014
The authentic political leadership of the country has risen to its mission and to the country’s calling. The respected segment of the clergy has extended its unreserved support. Shirani Bandaranayake though an individual, will be a heavyweight as a vote puller. Very advisedly the two minority leaderships are kept at arms length. Every prospect augurs well.
The decision is in no way precipitate. It has been well thought out and for long. The time available to the electorate is not too short. A collective mind which had already decided, was merely awaiting an alternate leadership to come forward.
The incumbent government has displayed its trepidation. It hid the BMICH away from the emerging coalition and played spoilsport. The nation’s mood however has crystallised most decisively.
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Navin / July 25, 2014
“The authentic political leadership of the country has risen to its mission and to the country’s calling.”
CBK + Ranil + SF + Sobitha ? LOL.
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roy / July 26, 2014
The reason being;
MaRa+Gota+Gnana+Champaka? [Edited out]
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Dr. Laksiri Fernando / July 25, 2014
This is a very positive development for the main opposition party leaders and civil society activists to come together. Abolish the executive presidential system, enhance devolution and re-establish independent commissions should be some of the goals.
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Navin / July 25, 2014
This is a very positive development.
—
Unfortunately, there is no development here.
I have lost track of the number of times CBK promised to abolish executive presidency during her 2 terms _in power_. She is pathological liar. I have seen her media interviews with international journalists where she claimed she finished 95% of the war! She was and still is as power hungry, corrupt and inefficient a politician as anyone else. What respect did she have for the judiciary when she appointed Sarath N Silva as CJ?
They say fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me…
Does Sarath Fonseka’s past conduct give any indication that he would be respectful of democracy or other peoples’ opinion? Both Ranil and CBK overlooked Sarath Fonseka when in power since he was not “manageable”.
Then we have the monk! Good heavens has a monk rescued a country from political “turmoil” and put on the “right track” anywhere before? This is an insane suggestion. Not worthy of the academic “credentials” of its proponents. Dayan Jayathilaka was right on the mark when he said Sobitha will not get more than a few thousand votes. Perhaps he may do slightly better than Sidhalepa Vedha Mahathaya!
This is a group of big time liars, losers and crackpots.
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sirimal / July 25, 2014
WHY NOT ? HOW DIFFICULT IN TODAY CONTEXT TO GET ALL THESE REPRESENTATIVES TOGETHER IS KNOWN TO EVERYONE
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crazyoldmansl / July 26, 2014
No! The coming together is not a positive development. It is a political drama aimed at coming to power. What would be a good thing IF it happens is this motley crew working out a CREDIBLE road map that will IF followed lead to the reconstitution of the state without an executive presidency. Drawing up such a road map is the first task. Ensuring that people like dear Chandika stick to the map and follow it is the next hurdle. One way of keeping the power hungry in check maybe the engagement of popular participation in making the map and devolving its implementation to the citizenry.
We must also THANK our dear GOAT for having set the ball rolling by sending that love letter to this stupid and greedy “Civil Society” that wants to be a law unto itself. Thank you dear GOAT and may you live for ever!
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Jim softy / July 26, 2014
Look like pakiasothy Saravanamuttu and Laksiri Fernando are from the Same club or for the same NGO.
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Javi / July 25, 2014
Katte Pittu and the Jihad.
They all failed and led us all into the abyss.
The all weather Farce troupe.
It’s the ambitious, greedy, and sotthy liars vying to take the nation further down to the hell with support and funding from terrorism Jihad.
Big Brother is Watching- Come on BBS/SR show them their rightful place
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Sengodan. M / July 25, 2014
Good start and gives lot of hope to all those who love peace and democracy. Almost the entire opposition and even all the sensible people are united on the single goal of abolishing the draconian Executive Presidency! All the Best!
Sengodan. M
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Park / July 25, 2014
With the appointment of the new President, in addition to abolishing the Executive Presidency, it also should be the duty of the new President to make Sri Lanka where “Sri Lankans” live, not Sinhalese, Tamils or Muslims. We all should be united as “Sri Lankans” speaking different languages and following different religions.
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Sapumal / July 25, 2014
Well said. Happy to see that day with my own eyes. As marwan said below
” Think different, think Sri Lankan. One community, one nation”
Our country really need more people like you!
Long live Sri Lanka!
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Native Vedda / July 26, 2014
Sapumal
“” Think different, think Sri Lankan. One community, one nation” Our country really need more people like you!”
“Ein Volk, ein Reich, ein Führer”
One people, one empire, one leader
You will end up with standardised monolithic morons with the clan chief as the Führer.
Instead think as multi-nation, multi cultural, shared heritage and unity in diversity with a vibrant democracy which recognises all people of this island as equal partners underwritten by law and order, equal opportunities, dignity, security,……………
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Marwan / July 25, 2014
Way to go! I hope momentum builds up to a crescendo with direct support and involvement from all strata of civil society, professionals, legal luminaries and from all political parties, all coming together to push through a peaceful revolution to abolish the Executive Presideny and restore parliamentary powers to ensure good governance and accountability. We need to save the country from abysmal depths of a nation with monks literally gone mad and steeped in racial hatred.
What we are witnessing is the tyranny of an Executive President turned despot, who has his own and corrupt family’s self serving interests at heart, with absolute disregard towards public welfare, and the human aspect. Spends lavishly on city beautifications, highways and infrastructure and road developments, but people struggling to survive a high cost of living, and have three square meals a day. It is so bad that Farmers are committing suicide and inter-community relationship is at an all time low under this regime.
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Jim softy / July 25, 2014
right now Sri Lanka is governed by the people of the same old boys club. Once those and their relatives are chased out country will be better off.
Executive presidency is good for Sri Lanka.
It is the same old boys club who exploit Sri lankan voters are the bad.
So, get rid of all these people.
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nandal / July 25, 2014
CBK had been power 11 years, Ranil 3 years of UNP in power, UNP rule 17 years of JRJ and R.Premadasa, Sarath Fonseka was Ex-War Army General, Shirina Banadarake corrupted CJ in History Judicial system her past history of Legal legacy in Island, R. Sampathan of TNA is working for Separate state or Eealm, that associated with LTTE-Terrorist outfit, and TNA all most denied Sri lanka sovereignty; hence JVP of anarchists who killed more thousands of People in South and Maolwawa Sobitha thero the voice of Western funded political agenda ,that now demand by change of Presidential system of Government.
This request come under pressure from West and guided by the ‘Justice of Social Movement’ originated by Western mindset to undermine ongoing development and growth of Economy of Island, that force us to surrender nation sovereignty and independence via JSM is presently lead by Rev Sobitha.
Why all theses bunch of incorrigible and outdated, moribund political class and their leaders get together?
Is that interest of Our Country, Nation and People or their democracy? Is their Sovereignty People or country? Is interest of Unity of Nation won end of Terrorist War 2009 May?
This decision must be let be decided by people’s will by their Democracy norms.
That how Sri lankan path of Democracy has taken place last 67 years. Why only confined abolished of Presidential power?
Why not that change whole 1978 Republic Constitution, all anti-democracy & anti-people system is not going to REVIEW?
This is political conspiracy against people of Country and People the behind the screen by few class vested interest of the Rich, that in locally and externally .
Of coursed I too agreed to change abolished Presidential system as common man in the Island. Believed it or not that I never support change one part of System to achieve to undermine democracy and sovereignty without alternative policies as whole Democracy programmed led by leaders of Political parties in Island.
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Pakshe / July 25, 2014
We owe these participants a debt of gratitude for making the effort in organizing this event and coming together in this manner. It proves that the opposition to the Rajpakshe’s cannot be destroyed. On the contrary it is alive and well.
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PARAGON / July 25, 2014
ONE THING ALL CAN NOTICE WHERE ARE ALL THOSE SO CALLED MUSLIM LEADERS HAVE GONE.HAVE THEY ALL GONE TO MECAA-SAUDI-OR TO BEREWELA OR TO TEMPLE TREES.LOOKS LIKES THEY ALL MISSING IN ACTIONS GOTHA MALLI.
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Marwan / July 25, 2014
What Paragon of virtue are you? Nothing but a downright racist.
There are no ministers at all here, be they Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim or Christian. They are all busy in Parliament serving their duties as Ministers. We don’t need Muslim representation if equal rights for all communities are enshrined in the Constitution, and if we have a just society, where law breakers are brought to justice.
Think different, think Sri Lankan. One community, one nation.
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Javi / July 25, 2014
“Nothing but a downright racist. ”
Ay! Camel Race!
Block Vote of Tipcut and gentile mutilation of the female pack.Turn the back to the world saying you are praying while in reality.
Belch & Fart Camel Dung.
Fascist Mar-Wade go back under the stone you came from.
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Leelage Bappa / July 26, 2014
Don’t bother Marwan its effect of Javi’s own special cocktail Kasippu+marijuana on the rocks garnished with Ganja leaves.
Javi sometimes….sorry most of the time talks shit – not his fault.
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Javi / July 26, 2014
OH MY ALU YOUR A LEELA Beta!! Army boy leela is a resident of waters edge but not rotten plum, pain in the bum!!
Heard of rusty-nail I doubt it!
brewers of kassipu and sellers of heroine are the Islamist fundamentalist.
Islamist fundamentalist off the gentile mutilation female pack.
It now seems you are wearing scratchy underwear!!
Quite a Phew!!
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Saman Wijesirfi / July 25, 2014
I think that the people yearning for social justice, rule of the law and good governance are happy that Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhita Thera has taken the initiative to abolish the Executive Presidential System which is the root cause of practically all ills bedeviling the nation today.But I think that the Venerable Thera should think twice before taking on board individuals like Atureliya Ratana Thera, Wimal Weerawansa and the comical leftist trio Vasu, Dew and Tissa who are comfortably settled in MR’s gravy train. Chandrika can surely play a constructive role in this exercise and there is no sense in holding her past sins against her and alienating her on that account. Let us hope that Ranil, Sajith, Karu, Sampanthan, Anura Kumara and Sarath Fonseka will come together to throw overboard the accursed Executive Presidency. Once this mission is accomplished, they may go there separate ways!
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Safa / July 25, 2014
Hope the various parties will get together and field a common candidate instead of trying to go it alone.
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Sri / July 25, 2014
So the united opposition will fight the next election on a single issue-The abolition of the Executive Presidency!
I am a little perturbed about this single issue.
Why a single issue?
What happens on the likely event of the executive Presidency being abolished after victory?
And everybody will live happily thereafter?
This is the end of history!
On the contrary, let us mobilize all democratic forces around a common Programme, of course with the abolition of Executive Presidency as the priority, but not forgetting the rule of law, good governance, a political solution acceptable to Tamil and Muslim communities!
Then Let us have a road map!
But what is the guarantee that movement for the single issue will not simply evaporate into thin air once their agenda is fulfilled?
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Bensen Burner / July 25, 2014
Watching and listening to the Ven. Sobitha Thero gives one the impression that he could prove to be a formidable candidate and a useful catalyst to be chosen by the well meaning progressive and oppressed sections of Sri Lanka from all sections to do away with the executive presidency. It appears that he also has a lively sense of humour. Bensen
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Dr,Rajasingham Narendran / July 25, 2014
While I welcome this initiative, I question whether the presidential system has to be abolished and replaced by the failed Westminster system. I also have fears about Ven. Sobitha Thera being fronted as the one issue presidential candidate.
Constitutional reform is urgently needed. However, this should not involve throwing the baby with the dirty bath water. Further, pushing a monk or priest into the presidential chair is a dangerous manoeuvre, akin to the proverbial Trojan horse.
Constitutional reform should curtail the wings of the President and restore the strength of the separation of powers between the Presidency, parliament cum a senate and the Supreme Court. The devolution issue should be addressed sensibly and the independence of the public service, judiciary, police, elections apparatus and the armed forces should be assured. One of the most important issues to be addressed is the quality of the persons we are called upon to elect to various positions. Strict criteria should be laid down as pre-qualifications. It is important to address the issue of whether elected parliamentarians/senators should serve in the cabinet. I think the cabinet should be made up of nominated persons, approved by parliament cum senate and answerable to parliament. Further, the dates for the various elections should be constitutionally fixed and the size of the cabinet defined.
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
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ajith / July 25, 2014
There is an urgent need for liberation from this brutal regime. The nation cannot stand for any longer under this regime. The nation lost all its good characters and wealth under this family dictatorship. Westminster system may be failed in the past but this system can be modified with better ones but this system must go because all powers are with one person. We have seen that it is very dangerous and disastrous.
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Sengodan. M / July 26, 2014
The ONLY issue on which a formidable opposition could be built against the present tyrannical government is the abolition of the EP! Any addition to that will break the opposition. So, let us be realistic and take one step at a time!
Sengodan. M
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / July 26, 2014
It was expediency and crass opportunism that have brought Sri Lanka to its present state. Should we tread the same nasty path once again?
Yes, MR and the present government have to go. Yes, the constitution has to be revised or re-written.Let this be a wholesome, visionary exercise. Let us fire the imagination of the people by making them understand the visionary goals of the new constitution. The people are ready to throw the MR government off their backs because of a multitude of reasons. Why should the blame be placed on the concept of Executive Presidency than on the men who designed it and the persons who misused and corrupted it? Did D.S.Senanayake not undermine the principles of the Soulbury Constitution? Did SWRD and Sirimavo not undermine the Soulbury constitution? Did not JR undermine the Constitution he himself designed?
Constitutions will not work unless we as a people want them to work. When the politicians whom we elect to represent us, do not like constitutions to restrict them, are the constitutions at fault? When mice and rats are appointed to institutions that are meant to uphold constitutions, isn’t it reasonable to expect that they will naw and destroy these institutions and the constitution itself?
Let us not produce a new edition of a bad constitution once again in our haste to get rid of the present curse! The medicine may worsen the disease and deal the final death blow to this country.
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
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punchinilame / July 25, 2014
Opinions vary. Whatever is to happen Mahinda mentality will NOT change. Will he not postpone the Presd.Elections with his 2/3rd majority – for his own benefit and that of his henchmen in Parliament and outside, on the basis that the UNHCR threat is against the Island and he has to face it without any change locally (ofcourse his dynasty matters to him alone). MR is doing this in an accepted & very democratic way – as he will say, ably supported by his mouth-pieces
Would V.P. have made a change when it came to the push? Similarly, MR will not delinquish E.P. even in his death-bed. He will do so at a time he sets. The S.B. voters will have to bear it and wait!!!!!!!!!!!! No Spring can be imagined with the Army camped in all Districts. Forget it – MR is there to stay for a decade – my prediction.
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Sengodan. M / July 26, 2014
No. This is the beginning of the END of MR regime!
Sengodan. M
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maneepa / July 25, 2014
This is the only out for the good of the general masses and democracy.
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Sapumal / July 25, 2014
SrI Lanka need a change. A real change. Not like the what we had before. It really need Civil Society input. When Mahinda Rajapaksa was opposition MP at that time, he talked about a change, a real change. Thats why he went to Geneva, that is why he initiated ” pada Yathra”. It gave everyone a Kick start. But before then many people have worked much harder to bring that change in 1994. We dont need what we have gone through. This time we must abolish the executive presidential system with more powers to civil society. Politicians should not given any chance to exploit people and the civil society for their own benefit. There should be a system to bring Mahinda Rajapaksa and his siblings and everyone who involved in rule to courts to punish for their unlawful , unconstitutional acts. There should be No race, religion or any ethnic difference in state affairs. Everyone should be live in peace and happiness in democratic environment. Defeat the medamulana maffia regime………Victory to the people!Congratulations!
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paul / July 25, 2014
why the other joker -mangala- missing from the pack?
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Leelage Bappa / July 26, 2014
Don’t you worry about Mangala.
What the heck that hypocrite joker Gammanpila sitting here for?
Isn’t he your one of your own BBS lunatic.
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Javi / July 27, 2014
Rotten tooth,
big brother society might castrate bappa/kakka and drop the tip cut in the pigsty- the rightful place for Islamist fundamentalist.
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Sri / July 25, 2014
I endorse of every word of what Dr Rajasingam Narendran says, not only because he accepted my comments, but he expanded my ideas still further with concrete suggestions and added something more.
Abolition is not the end. We are not going to lead the country to anarchy.
What we are going to replace the presidential system is the main question.
We cannot approach this or any issue with a negative mindset. Let us be positive.
We are against the system, not aganist the individuals, it is true that individuals had worsened the situation.
But we are on a noble mission!
The civil society must take over and be in the forefront for democratization of the institutions – Rule of Law, Good Governance, independent professional institutions and persons of integrity to man these institutions are absolute necessity.
As Dr Narendran says elected members should not be allowed to serve in the cabinet. Let the elected members be the legislators, policy makers and be the watch dogs.
Again as rightly pointed out by Dr Narendran , Westminster system is not the panacea for all our ills.
We should not allow the politicians and the lawyers the responsibility for enacting the new workable constitution.
Workable is the key word.
The civil society must take over.
If we consider abolition of the Presidential system is the issue, We will unwillingly join hands with even the devils and then the devils themselves will set the agenda.
I repeat a common programme formed with the support of all democratic forces is the only way out.
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Nimal / July 25, 2014
‘Opposition Politicians And The Possible Common Candidate Convene To Call For An End To The Executive Presidency’
What the hell is the use of that? Its not the Executive Presidency per se that is to blame for the nations ills. It’s the corrupt, power hungry politicians who have run it since independence. Those scoundrels will still be there EP or no EP.
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Native Vedda / July 27, 2014
Nimal
“It’s the corrupt, power hungry politicians who have run it since independence. Those scoundrels will still be there EP or no EP.”
That is a good reason as to why they shouldn’t be given powers more than necessary to successfully run this island.
Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely. The Executive Presidency gives absolute power to one person.
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douglas / July 25, 2014
What a “JOKE” is this? There is a Sinhala saying: “Ya Deka Noratha Ratha; Ekata Pasimak Netha” ( The two wheels of a cart never meet in its journey) The “JOKE” is that all these “Leaders” are fighting to abolish the Presidency as if that is the “CURSE”; but they failed to realize it is the behavior and misuse of its powers by the holder of the post. Have they considered the whole matter of governance in the affairs of the country? The very Constitution is like a “Rotten Jack Fruit” pecked by “self interested types, with various types of “Amendments”. Do they want or interested in instituting a well constituted Constitution for the country taking into consideration the “National Needs”? NO. Not at all. The main interest of all those sitting there are merely conscious of “Grabbing Power” to “Rule the Country”.
It is very unfortunate to “see” the ex-Chief Justice too sitting in the company of these “once and so many times rejected” self styled “Leaders”. Who can save our country from these people?
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