In the wake of several news websites highly critical of the Government of Sri Lanka giving sudden prominence to UNP Gampaha District Parliamentarian and Chairman of the UNP’s Leadership Council Karu Jayasuriya, Colombo Telegraph is compelled to question him on the nature of his relationship with those who operate these websites.
According to media reports this past week Karu Jayasuriya now appears to be the leading contender as the presidential candidate proposed by the opposition parties, other possible choices former President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Leader of the UNP Ranil Wickremesinghe, and Ven Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thera, the convener of the National Movement for Social Justice.
On October 23rd, Karu Jayasuriya telephoned the Colombo Telegraph editor and offered him a monthly payment of Rs 50,000/- ‘in appreciation of the work that Colombo Telegraph does’. Jayasuriya did not state for how long this payment was to be made. The issue did not arise because the editor politely declined the offer. The editor, furthermore, reminded Jayasuriya that it was he who interviewed him when he first came in to politics in 1995. At that time Jayasuriya had told the journalist that he hoped he would continue work towards the independence of the media. The Colombo Telegraph editor pointed out to Jayasuriya that he functions today as an independent media entity and said he did not need any money.
One week after the aforementioned phone call, Karu Jayasuriya has been given a lot of prominence in several news websites. Colombo Telegraph is therefore compelled to ask Karu Jayasuriya whether or not he had made a similar offer to those who run these websites ‘in appreciation of the work they do’ or for any other reason.
Colombo Telegraph feels it is Jayasuriya’s duty to disclose the nature of his relationship with the said websites, particularly in view of the fact that Jayasuriya was the very person who campaigned for the Right to Information and transparency.
taraki / November 9, 2014
I hope CT recorded the phone call. Its the only way.
/
Ben Hurling / November 9, 2014
What if individuals seek to support CT financially? To make sure CT continues to operate & not least grow in strength.
Surely, that should be OK. As long as no caveats are attached. With specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations that would compromise CT’s integrity & independence. As long as everything is transparent & ethical.
However, now that the matter is in the public domain, the decent thing for Karu J to do, would be to come clean at once. Clarify exactly why he wants to fund CT. And not least, where he gets these funds from? Anything less would be disappointing. Hardly a flying start.
Cheers!
PS: I think Karu J’s son-in-law is Gamini D’s son, Naveen D. Not really an asset. Having such already badly tarnished baggage. This country needs a sea change.
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S.Modaya / November 9, 2014
Right on CT Editors! Lanka is truly the Miracle of Modayas..
Karu seems to be playing a dirty game and the Joint Opposition is a bunch of losers.. Karu and the UNP are the SPOILERS of the joint opposition effort.
Mahinda Jarapassa is over the moon that it is Karu (who is uncharismatic and will not be able to defeat him in a Presidential Election) rather that Charndika Bandaranaiyaka who will be joint opposition candidate!
Only CBK can defeat Mahinda Jarapassa at a Presidential election by splitting the SLFP vote and UPFA.
Seems that the timing of Sobitha Thero and the joint opposition is off! The joint opposition, having waited so long, should have waited until the ruling of the Suprieme Court this week on whether Mahinda Jarapassa can run, which will inevitably be the case, and put up CBK to run against him.
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Dinuk / November 9, 2014
If Mahinda Rajapaksa tries to paint CBK as corrupt due to land transfers in the Water’s Edge, well, let’s take a look at the Jarapassa FAMILY of corrupt and criminal looters of the national wealth and their cronies and their KINGSBURY – BLING SBURY car racing Lifestyle!
Namal with his sports car circus, Basil with his luxury hotels built on stolen lands with stolen funds, Shiranee Jarapassa’s corrupt brother with his stolen gold watch at Sri Lanka Airlines etc. etc..
Then lets count who is accountable for the majority of corrupt deals?!
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mechanic / November 10, 2014
Actually, corruption associated with Water’s Edge is NOTHING. If anyone wanted to learn corruption by CBK, I suggest they read Victor Ivan’s book ‘The Bandit Queen’.
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Amarasiri / November 11, 2014
Dinuk
Take your pick. If you can’r go for the common candidate, whoever it is.
Medamulana Mahinda Jarapaksa, Vs.
CBK Former President Chandrika, “Queen of Thieves” – Victor Ivan, editor
http://www.asiantribune.com/index.php?q=node/2052
Chandrika “Queen of Thieves”
Colombo, 20 September, (Asiantribune.com): Victor Ivan, editor of ‘Ravaya’, a left-wing Sinhala weekly, launched a book in Colombo on Monday branding his former political ally, President Chandrika Kumaratunga, as the ‘Chaura Rajina’, Queen of Thieves.
The author levels some highly damaging allegations against the former President. It also implicates her in the murders of Kumar Ponnambalam, Ashroff the Muslim leader who was killed in a helicopter crash, Rohana Kumara and the arson attack on the residence of actress Anoja Weerasinghe.
Political commentators agree that this is going to be the hottest book on sale for some time. Its controversial contents are bound to damage the image of Chandrika Kumaratunga who still has political ambitions of staging a comeback. Both were left-wing allies in opposing the right-wing UNP. Ivan comes from the extreme left-wing of the JVP. He lost one hand in his attempt to make a crude bomb. Some journalists refer to him as the “one-armed bandit”.
The book alleges that certain activities that took place during the Chandrika Kumaratunga’s regime were perpetrated by a close-knit presidential Mafia established with her full knowledge.
When Ivan fell out with Kumaratunga he accused her of attempting to buy his favor by offering Rs, 500,000.00. According to Ivan, she had taken him to her room, opened the cupboard and offered the money. Ivan says that he turned it down.
He also alleges that she staged the bomb explosion at the final election rally of her second presidential election campaign at the Colombo Municipal Grounds to win over public sympathy. This incident in which she lost sight of one of the eyes was her own conspiracy, says Ivan. He claims that the DNA testing had proved that the suicide bomber was not the identified woman.
Ivan also refers to her sex life linking her romantically to some businessmen and actors. Her husband, Vijay Kumaratunga was an actor. Later when she became President she was close to another popular actor younger than her. He crossed over from the UNP to be her media minder. His movements in and out of her presidential residence raised many eyebrows and constant gossip.
However, according to sources close to the former President, to the author of ‘Chaura Rajina’ and the former President will initiate legal action seeking a ban on the book.
Meanwhile, it is reported that Chandrika Kumaratunga has been appointed as South Asian Director General of United Nation Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
– Asian Tribune –
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Ben Hurling / November 9, 2014
S.Modaya,
You might be an excellent “Political Pundit”.
Given how stupid the Sri Lankan electorate is, we might again fall for the Queen of All Bandits. CBK that is. Don’t forget she was convicted for corruption.
I have nothing against that scenario. There is only one problem though.
Sri Lanka will be back to Square One, after the election. CBK will pick up the pieces, where she left off 10 years ago.
Sri Lanka’s misery will continue into the unknown. That means political violence, corruption, nepotism, dynasty building, torture. You name it. Under a new set of clowns in the corridors of power.
Is that what we are looking for?
We are faced with a field of bloody awful choices, indeed.
Cheers!
/
srilal / November 10, 2014
Ben Hurling ,
“Given how stupid the Sri Lankan electorate is, we might again fall for the Queen of All Bandits. CBK that is. Don’t forget she was convicted for corruption.”
there are no any doubts about CBK’s integrity & honesty , yes she is one of the worst leaders SL has had , but one has to look at the bigger picture , if MR were to be elected again , what would be the outcome for the whole country ? will SL be a respectable country before the civilized world , will she able to function as a non align country ? what about the fate of millions of law abiding citizens ? SL is already on the verge of collapse and MR will make every effort to push towards that end , since MR’s illegal coronation ( 2005)SL has been witnessing unthinkable , who can stop all these madness ? majority of SL people eat grass as their staple food and can’t see right from wrong , most of the people tend to be overly emotional and hardly use their gray matter when it’s really needed , to cater such populace , CBK is an ideal candidate , she has every thing that grass eating SL masses want , CBK can lie , can talk to the gallery , can be persuasive, deceptive and be charming at the same time , she is having this unparalleled SLFP support base , international recognition , experience (in all accounts i.e election fraud , abusing power etc ), above all who can withstand MR’s 24×7 viscous mud slinging campaign and counter attack them in equal measure ? will Ven SB or Gentleman Karu be able to handle MR’s 3 rd grade vilifying tactics ?
my suggestion is to use CBK to ouster MR first and entrap her later.
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Leel / November 9, 2014
Dear Mr Victor Ivan please give this Olamottala modaya a copy of your book “CHAVRA RAGINA” to read. This guy head is full of that thing, his ass should have.
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Native Vedda / November 10, 2014
Ben Hurling
What is the source of Rs 50,000 per month, a large sum for any Sri Lankan to part with.
Will Karu make an effort to disclose whether the money was earned legally or the Hindians funding the campaign?
If it is out of goodwill Karu has shown an awful lot of goodwill towards CT.
Perhaps his family raised sheep and reared chicken to pay for such such expensive goodwill.
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Ben Hurling / November 10, 2014
Native,
Financing of political parties & election campaigns are a major source of corruption in SL.
A murky world where black money changes hands in large bags. SLFP & UNP politicians are the worst offenders.
Nothing is transparent. No book keeping. No regulatory regime or watchdog.
What is stupid is that we expect monkeys elected to public office via such corruption to clean up the act in SL.
How stupid is that?
Cheers!
/
test / November 10, 2014
Anyone who wishes to contribute to CT financially could do so anonymously, so there intentions are not in question…
/
shankar / November 10, 2014
ben hurling
“What if individuals seek to support CT financially? To make sure CT continues to operate & not least grow in strength. Surely, that should be OK. As long as no caveats are attached. With specific stipulations, conditions, or limitations that would compromise CT’s integrity & independence. As long as everything is transparent & ethical.”
It is a bribe mate,plain and simple.No point trying to whitewash.
Anyway karu will lose the election.If he has already started to spend money on his campaign like this he is wasting it.
The only one i can think of who has a chance of beating mahinda is CBK if she says she will abolish the presidency in 6 months.
This time people know she has to do it because she is relying on so many other parties to get her through the finishing line.
whether she is willing to contest is the big question.
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Ben Hurling / November 10, 2014
Shankar,
“whether she is willing to contest is the big question.”
Oh please..! Give us a break.
She wants it so bad. She will kill for it.
Who else will employ her with such excellent perks and privileges?
CBK is so totally UNEMPLOYABLE anywhere else. She has not done anything of use, since she left office 10 years ago.
Presidency of SL is her only refuge.
Cheers!
/
Peace Lover / November 10, 2014
interesting this is i think Rs 50.000 per monnth will work out around GBP 240 per month,not a bad amount to have as extra cash
btw,who are the CT editor/s Ben ?
As for CBK,i dont like her as in 1994 she promised to abolish the Executive post and though she won with almost 70% mandate she didnt do it
at least under MR we got new roads and railway lines restored
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shankar / November 10, 2014
Ben hurling
I was thinking more on the lines of the waters edge verdict where she was convicted.Will it be a legal impediment if MR brings it up.Also bandit queen vs tsunami hora might become battle royal.Is she thinking of benazir bhutto or welikada sarath.
will she drop her saree,sorry hat into the ring?
imagine mahinda’s face when he is waiting in the ring to clobber the daylights out of the fellow who is going to come in and instead out jumps a dainty female over the ropes.
he will have to immediately change strategy,why with 50% voters women.can’t go like our coppers and start beating her up.
Ah what entertainment for us,bandit queen vs tsunami hora.
lets keep our fingers crossed.
if its karu vs horu then we will be all yawning,what with gentlemenly karu thanking mahinda everyday for all the insults.
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JULAMPITIYE AMARAYA / November 10, 2014
May be he has learned Some thing from Sarana gunwardana and Prassana Ranthunga.
But not from Panduka Bandranayaka.
If he has done trying to BRIBE, any way he must go to Medagama Pansla not Bendiyamulla temple to pray for lord Buddha as he must face gamae minissu.
Deiyioo saakki, [If there are Any??????????].
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Amarasiri / November 9, 2014
CT
1. “On October 23rd, Karu Jayasuriya telephoned the Colombo Telegraph editor and offered him a monthly payment of Rs 50,000/- ‘in appreciation of the work that Colombo Telegraph does’. Jayasuriya did not state for how long this payment was to be made. The issue did not arise because the editor politely declined the offer.”
2. “The Colombo Telegraph editor pointed out to Jayasuriya that he functions today as an independent media entity and said he did not need any money.”
3. “One week after the aforementioned phone call, Karu Jayasuriya has been given a lot of prominence in several news websites. Colombo Telegraph is therefore compelled to ask Karu Jayasuriya whether or not he had made a similar offer to those who run these websites ‘in appreciation of the work they do’ or for any other reason.”
Looks like he has got some money in his marketing budget. However, remember all the thrash the Mahinda Rajapaksa regime and their cronies are spilling out ever day in the state and other media.
Common sense Pamphlet. Remember the Goal. Get Rid of the King and his dynasty.
Ask Karu Jayasuriya to write his own Common Sense Pamphlet and distribute it widely.
If this offer was made to Mr. [Edited out] he would have presented that to his boss and empyloyer Mr. Nahinda Rajapaksa for a counter offer.
Then Mahinda Rajapaksa, shills and his cronies would have counter offered, the following.
1.Rs. 1,000,000 per month
2. Brand New Car
3. New Laptop
4. New iPhone 6 or iphone 6 Plus
5. A Virgin to play with.
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Amarasiri / November 9, 2014
@CT
RE: Presidential Hopeful Karu Jayasuriya Must Disclose Relationship With News Websites
Along with that ask the Rajapaksa State t disc;lose all the crocked dealing and murders carried out by them…
The list is too long for …
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Leel / November 9, 2014
Yes CT it is your duty to prove this allegation.
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Average Joe / November 10, 2014
No need. CT has laid it out.
It is up to KJ to disprove it. Lets see. Please read the 2007 COPE report. Or just google 2007 cope karu.
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Ravana / November 10, 2014
Only way for what?
Mara and his stooges are offering bribes to every Tom Dick and Harry on daily basis in various different ways.
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Amarasiri / November 10, 2014
taraki
RE: Presidential Hopeful Karu Jayasuriya Must Disclose Relationship With News Websites
Presidential Hopeful Karu Jayasuriya Must Disclose Relationship With All Whores.
looks like CT is nor a whore.
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Amarasiri / November 12, 2014
@CT
RE: Presidential Hopeful Karu Jayasuriya Must Disclose Relationship With News Websites
Presidential Hopeful Karu Jayasuriya Must Disclose that he will beat Mahinda Rajapaksa?
Can he do it.Yes,if he writes the Common Sense Pamphlet.
As my wish was to serve an oppressed people, and assist in a just and good cause, I conceived that the honor of it would be promoted by my declining to make even the usual profits of an author.[11] —Thomas Paine
As my wish was to serve an oppressed people, and assist in a just and good cause, I conceived that the honor of it would be promoted by my declining to make even the usual profits of an author.[11], and spending my own money to promte using the web sites. -Karu Jayasuuriya..
Then he can say that he was trying to get the news websites to distribute the common sense pamphlet.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_Sense_(pamphlet)
Common Sense[1] is a pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775–76 that inspired people in the Thirteen Colonies to declare and fight for independence from Great Britain in the summer of 1776. In clear, simple language it explained the advantages of and the need for immediate independence. It was published anonymously on January 10, 1776, at the beginning of the American Revolution and became an immediate sensation. It was sold and distributed widely and read aloud at taverns and meeting places. Washington had it read to all his troops, which at the time had surrounded the British army in Boston. In proportion to the population of the colonies at that time (2.5 million), it had the largest sale and circulation of any book published in American history.[2]
Common Sense presented the American colonists with an argument for freedom from British rule at a time when the question of whether or not to seek independence was the central issue of the day. Paine wrote and reasoned in a style that common people understood. Forgoing the philosophical and Latin references used by Enlightenment era writers, he structured Common Sense as if it were a sermon, and relied on Biblical references to make his case to the people.[3] He connected independence with common dissenting Protestant beliefs as a means to present a distinctly American political identity.[4] Historian Gordon S. Wood described Common Sense as “the most incendiary and popular pamphlet of the entire revolutionary era”.[5]
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Amarasiri / November 12, 2014
taraki
Karu Jayasooriya has experience in these Matters..from 2207. Is Mahinda Rajapaksa behind this?
Okkoma Horu… All ate Thieves..
COPE chairman hits out at Govt.
COPE chairman demands action against those accused, including minister Karu Jayasuriya, by the report
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sinhala/news/story/2007/11/071114_wijayadasa_budget.shtml
he chairman of a powerful all-party parliamentary committee who crossed over to the opposition has hit out at the fiscal record of the Sri Lanka government.
National list parliamentarian Wijayadasa Rajapakse, PC, said the Appropriation Bill presented by President Rajapaksa was an attempt to undermine the authority of the legislature.
The chairman of the parliamentary Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) said he could not vote for the budget proposals according to the conscience.
Undermining parliament
“The parliament is not informed of how they plans to spend Rs. 50700 million,” he told BBC Sandeshaya.
He accused the government of empowering the Secretary of the Treasury, PB Jayasundara, undermining the power of the legislature.
The powerful all-party parliamentary committee published a detailed report on corruption and misappropriation of public funds earlier this year.
Jayasundara and Commissioner of Inland Revenue were named as corrupt officials in the report, the former legal advisor to the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) said.
COPE report
“In 2007, the treasury spent Rs. 20000 million without the approval of the parliament”.
Only Rs. 9000 million is provided by the budget for nine million Samurdhi beneficiaries in Sri Lanka
Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, MP
Wijayadasa Rajapaksa demanded investigations against those named in the COPE report including senior ministers Karu Jayasuriya and Milinda Moragoda.
“Only Rs. 9000 million is provided by the budget for nine million Samurdhi beneficiaries in Sri Lanka,” Wijayadasa Rajapaksa told BBC Sinhala.com.
“However the government is spending Rs. 23750 million for the upkeep of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and 107 ministers”.
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Fathima Fukushima / November 9, 2014
Unafraid and unbowed!
Well done Colombo Telegraph. Proud of you.
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Vibhushana / November 9, 2014
Gosh really? He gives the appearance of Mr. Clean. I think his daughter is married to the present Treasury chief. So in effect he is married to the corrupt mob.
Chandrika came and swindled millions. Rajapaske turn came, the thieving is gotten worse.
Until they demonstrate clear iron clad policies with regard to FOI, media freedom, rule-of-law and institutional corruption there is no need for change. Might was well keep Rajapaske’s as there will not be any difference.
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Dr. Laksiri Fernando / November 9, 2014
I am stunned by this revelation. For some time I was expressing that Karu Jayasuriya be a better common candidate not only because of his possible acceptability to many opposition parties and organizations, but I also thought he was relatively a clean man.
I still don’t know whether the conversation was an inquiry whether the Editor could work for the political campaign on a (nominal) payment basis or an attempt to clearly bribe. The amount offered is pittance for a person living or forced to live in London. It is wrong on both counts. Mr. Jayasuriya should respect the independence of the media and media personnel while they are undoubtedly rare commodities.
I hope Mr. Jayasuriya clarifies this matter. Even if it is for the first purpose, Jayasuriya appears quite naïve to call himself and make the inquiry. This is one reason why I think there could still be a misunderstanding. He should also frankly apologize as he has hurt the feelings of the Editor.
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Amarasiri / November 9, 2014
Dr. Laksiri Fernando
“I am stunned by this revelation.”
But why?
Didn’t Karu Jayasooriya cross over with a bunch of his cronies for Mahinda Rajapaksa grapes?
Didn’t some of the grapes turned sour? So he left.
So he knows what to offer, bu he is a small-time player compared to Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa.
The answer is Blowin’ in the Wind Blowin’ in the Wind…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blowin'_in_the_Wind
“Blowin’ in the Wind” is a song written by Bob Dylan in 1962 and released on his album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan in 1963. Although it has been described as a protest song, it poses a series of rhetorical questions about peace, war and freedom. The refrain “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind” has been described as “impenetrably ambiguous: either the answer is so obvious it is right in your face, or the answer is as intangible as the wind”.[2]
In 1994, the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. In 2004, it was ranked #14 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time”.
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Average Joe / November 10, 2014
Dr Fernando,
Please read the 2007 COPE report on corruption. It identifies the most corrupt by name. An excellent effort but the government pushed it under the carpet.
Thereafter you will not be surprised.
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chamli Disanayaka / November 9, 2014
Bravo
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Lal / November 9, 2014
Has CT asked for similar disclosures from the President regarding the gagging of the media and using fear psychosis against them?
/
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / November 9, 2014
He was sent to negoitiate with MR by RW and ended up leading an exodus from the UNP. He returned to the fold subsequently and RW forgave and forgot. I was not very comfortable with Karu Jayasuriya being promoted as the common candidate.
I agree he has a reputation for effciency and as Mr.Clean. The Mr. Clean aspect has come into question now. This expose adds to his unacceptable baggage viz-a-viz the croosover, that not only damaged the UNP, but also the opposition as a strong entity- a requirement in a democracy. It has grievously damaged our country. MR calling him to congtaulate even before he was nominated as the common candidate, makes me wonder whether MR is behind the unfolding drama. Quite possible and plausible.
RW, hold on, you have given a lot of people a long rope quite patiently to hang themselves. You may reap your reward for this patience soon.
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
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Average Joe / November 10, 2014
Dr Raj,
Please read the 2007 COPE report on corruption.
A very responsible document clearly stating the corrupt by their name and corruption rank. Look for the two most corrupt. You will not have any surprises anymore.
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Diogenes / November 9, 2014
Karu Jayasuriya is the person who ruined the UNP. This traitor left the party with others and joined the government “to strengthen the hands of Mahinda” Do not forget the fact that he is not so popular amongst the UNPers. Most unsuitable as the common candidate. Ha cannot win. Even I will not vote for this cut-throat. Ranil, Chandrika or Ven.Sobhitha Thero wanted.
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Mahen De Silva / November 9, 2014
I wonder what the intention of CT in giving prominence to this story. The need of the hour is getting the best common candidate who is supported by majority of other parties. That does not mean that common candidate has to be a perfect guy without any weaknesses in his character.(Do we have any perfectly clean Politician in the Opposition?) His task is only to change the monster Presidential system and restore Parliamentary democracy back in our country. He is only carrying out a contract for a short period. It is unwise and dangerous for Colombo Telegraph, Sajith Premadasa or Dayan Jayatilake to attack the common candidate instead of the common enemy, the dictator who is ruining the country. This will benefit only the Dictators family and supporters. They would use all the resources to attack anyone coming forward from opposition to contest the Presidency. Government media would sure to pick this story from CT within next few days to attack Karu. I wonder the greatest conspirator of Srilankan politics, Tiran Allas is behind this news item.
I earnestly hope CT would continue to play the great role it has been doing over the years by highlighting serious human right violation, abuse of power, corruption, politicalised judiciary, police and the entire administration of our country. They should extend maximum support to anyone who is coming forward as Common candidate. All energy should be directed against the common enemy. Not the common candidate. The People who want democracy restored back in SriLanka would continue to rely on CT and we hope CT would not bow down to any financial pressure or temptation from Government supporters who would throw billions to win the Presidential election because they know the consequences of a change in government..
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Kalu Nangi / November 10, 2014
Yes, I endorse your views. In the first instance, I would like to ask CT, whether they are 100% certain that the offer was made by “Karu Jayasuriya” and not by someone who sounds like “Karu Jayasuriya”? If it was offered during a telephone conversation, obviously CT had not seen the person making the offer. There are people who can imitate others, the voice and mannerisms. This could be someone from the regime whose intention is to discredit Karu Jayasuriya. When the story is narrated by CT, it is not difficult to surmise that hundreds of people who read news on this website, will believe this story and turn against KJ.
The regime wants to destroy the concept of “Common Candidate” as they know that only a “common candidate” can defeat them. So what better way to achieve the hidden objective, than by slinging mud at KJ?
/
Upul / November 9, 2014
I do not need to waste too much effort to figure out Karu Jayasuriya’s morals and values. After all he left the UNP and then crept back in and has worked to undermine the party with the false premise of ‘the greater good’. If he valued the greater good so much, what made him cross over in the first place?
However, I am disappointed that CT editors waited until this week to reveal details of this offer. Surely there were more details discussed in this phone call than money? A bona-fide news organization should reveal attempts to buy,bribe or muzzle its operations at its earliest. Not wait for a convenient moment. If it took 2 weeks to investigate this offer, what did your investigation reveal?
Your loyal readership deserves much more than a demand that Karu reveals more. You need to reveal the complete truth before making such demands from others.
/
JPS / November 9, 2014
I have been an ardent reader of CT for last several years.From the articles appearing now ( Not only this) I can just now see a sudden drastic deviation of opinion it has so far advocated. I doubt whether SOMEBODY of CT has received a bigger ( much more than it claims to have been offered from KARU) offer from SOMEBODY. Dear mindful readers if you carefully go through the articles appearing now you will be able to understand it.
Be watchful such dirty games ore on the offing in view of the presidential elections.
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Nihal / November 10, 2014
Read the sunday Times;
Jayasuriya received a telephone call yesterday from President Rajapaksa amidst media speculation that he was also a likely candidate. “Mang kathaa karanney subapaththana (I am calling to wish you),” he said.
Jayasuriya was to reply that “Eya gena pakshaya thawama theeranayak arang nehe or the party has not taken a decision on the matter.” Rajapaksa went on to say that he had even asked Jayasuriya’s son-in-law Navin Dissanayake (a Cabinet Minister) to support Jayasuriya since he believed in family unity. Jayasuriya responded by saying that he did not discuss politics in the family — much the same as the tradition followed by the late Premier Jawaharlal Nehru in India.
http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141109/columns/126669-126669.html
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jinkers / November 9, 2014
clearly stated Mahen,
What is wrong with offering monetary contributions to websites such as CT or another. Did KJ ask CT to distort facts in lieu of financial contribution that he would willingly make. No proof
There are numerous lapdogs with laptops working round the clock to slander any common candidate for flimsiest of evidence ‘ magnified ‘ to the benefit of the ‘unethical and corrupt to the core’ MR.
CT in the name of ethical journalism should be an aider and abettor
All bets are off.
Even Bagawat Gita admits it would not be a sin for the common good
‘ hook or even by crook ‘the duty to uproot the evil.
Let us unite at this crucial period if we are truly patriotic.
Surely we do not want our country to go down the drain.
Lord Buddha will smile upon us.
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jinkers / November 9, 2014
I am not sure of which of the proposed common candidate will be the one suitable for common good. Our common goal should be to unseat the common fire, the corrupt regime. Let us think in terms of reversal, fire down to the frying pan. It would be an easier job to replace the frying pan.
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justice / November 10, 2014
CT stands as a beacon of media freedom and impartiality – the editor rejecting Karu J’s offer is correct.
Karu has tainted his standing as a politician and as a candidate for the presidency by his “offer”.
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mystery thickens / November 10, 2014
What if Sajith with Tiran and Killy, gave CT 100,000 to compete with Karu’s 50,000? Politics is DIRTY ! Such dealings are common! How much did MR pay to aquire The Nation, Rivira, The Leader, etc??? Dirtier isn’t it???
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Patriot / November 10, 2014
I totally agree with Mahen de Silva’s comment posted on 9th November at 9.10pm and I am totally disgusted with the Colombo Telegraph for highlighting this news item which will not do any good to the country. The common candidate need to be a trustworthy, honest person who will willingly change the constitution and a person who can get the most votes of the Sinhala Buddists. Only Sobhitha Thera and Karu Jayasuriya Satisfy the above conditions and as such any one of those two will definitely win at the next presidential election. We should not let Colombo Telegraph or any other newspaper to sabotage this honest effort taken by Sobhitha Thera and the patriotic people of Sri Lanka.
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Nihal / November 10, 2014
Ayyo Patto, read the sunday Times;
Jayasuriya received a telephone call yesterday from President Rajapaksa amidst media speculation that he was also a likely candidate. “Mang kathaa karanney subapaththana (I am calling to wish you),” he said.
Jayasuriya was to reply that “Eya gena pakshaya thawama theeranayak arang nehe or the party has not taken a decision on the matter.” Rajapaksa went on to say that he had even asked Jayasuriya’s son-in-law Navin Dissanayake (a Cabinet Minister) to support Jayasuriya since he believed in family unity. Jayasuriya responded by saying that he did not discuss politics in the family — much the same as the tradition followed by the late Premier Jawaharlal Nehru in India.
http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141109/columns/126669-126669.html
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Average Joe / November 10, 2014
Gentleman, please read the 2007 COPE (parliamentary committee on corruption) report. It was led by Hon Wijedasa Rajapaksa. It identifies the most corrupt politicians and public officials.
Check the names of the three most corrupt.
It will surprise you.
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Taraki / November 10, 2014
Please provide a link to the report. Thankyou.
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Ben Dover / November 10, 2014
Please will you or someone else who sees this, post a link to the COPE report of 2007, which ostensibly exposes those deemed most corrupt in Sri Lanka?
I was unable to get this from a basic search of the web.
Thanks.
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Jim softy / November 10, 2014
This looks like A PAID ADVERTISEMENT BY CT.
They think, Karu Jayasooriya is the next opposition candidate and the propaganda machine is rolling.
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Jim softy / November 10, 2014
I think, this big deal of Karu Jayasooriya crossing side is just UPFA-hatred.
There are killers, drug lords, thieves, simply criminals there. They keep on inhabiting the parliament.
I haven’t read any one speaking that Karu Jayasooriya anything other than changing the seats.
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Piranha / November 10, 2014
I agree that Mr Jayasuriya must clarify this without delay but did the CT editor query Karu’s motive at that time? If not why and why query it now that Karu is the likely candidate for the presidency?
The pattern of behaviour by the CT lately makes me wonder if it is in fact working to ensure a Rajapaksa victory. First the CPA and now Karu. I am very suspicious of the motive of CT.
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Nihal / November 10, 2014
Ayyo Piro, read the sunday Times;
Jayasuriya received a telephone call yesterday from President Rajapaksa amidst media speculation that he was also a likely candidate. “Mang kathaa karanney subapaththana (I am calling to wish you),” he said.
Jayasuriya was to reply that “Eya gena pakshaya thawama theeranayak arang nehe or the party has not taken a decision on the matter.” Rajapaksa went on to say that he had even asked Jayasuriya’s son-in-law Navin Dissanayake (a Cabinet Minister) to support Jayasuriya since he believed in family unity. Jayasuriya responded by saying that he did not discuss politics in the family — much the same as the tradition followed by the late Premier Jawaharlal Nehru in India.
http://www.sundaytimes.lk/141109/columns/126669-126669.html
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Patriot / November 10, 2014
Haven’t you sucker got anything else to write without repeating the same story over and over again. You bankrupt person!
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Native Vedda / November 10, 2014
Patriot
“Haven’t you sucker got anything else to write without repeating the same story over and over again.”
The message does not get through to many hence repetition of the message is necessary, its like Pirith chanting.
Has listening repeatedly to Pirith chanting make you bankrupt?
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K.A Sumanasekera / November 10, 2014
Bankrupt Opposition picked Jayasuriya and presented to the Elite, Anglicans and the Vellalas, as the real deal to do in the President,
They portrayed him as the “Mr Clean” whose pooh even doesn’t smell.
I don’t think the people who picked him are really dumb asses.
It was all designed and planned to hoodwink the great majority of the inhabitant population, who happen to be the rural, poor Sinhal Buddhists, and get them to vote for the UNP, TNA Diaspora Alliance.
Thank you Mr Editor and the Board….
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Average Joe / November 10, 2014
Please read the 2007 COPE report to see who are the corruption kings.
This case is worse. Remember how Mahaweli used to flow to Finco? Well, his daughter is married to that clan!
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Tamil from the north / November 10, 2014
Hey Sumanasekeram, there is no hope in your recovery from mental illness. You seem to be having a PhD = Permanent Head Damage!!! What really happened to you when you were born? Did your dad leave you as he could not take it anymore? So sorry to see a wonderful chap like you have turned out like this. You should thank the VELLALAH, ANGLICAN, DIASPORA, TNA, LTTE for their mere existence, which has made you come on board CT to write your foolishness. Just imagine what your life would have been if the above did not exist, just think about it. Oh poor boy from the backwoods of Hambantota. You miserable creature would have been stuck in there picking your nose all day long and using leaves as arse wipes.
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K.A Sumanasekera / November 10, 2014
Karu Jayasooriya appears to be a keen student of Keselwatta Senior.
Look at the intensity of attention and admiration in Jayasooriya’s face when focusing on the ex Presdent’s Works in his spare time ….
Is Karu Jayasooriya his phis protege?..
If so the inhabitants have to be extra careful..
The excommunicated LTTE Karuna says, foul mouthed ex President gave Prabakaran 5000 pieces of Semi Automatics , Ammunition and Money and transform the LTTE fighting capability from 300 to 5000 soldiers just in 6 months..
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K.A Sumanasekera / November 10, 2014
Wonder how much does Mr Jayasooriya , our soon to be CC of the UNP, TNA, Diaspora Alliance pay the Editor of [Edited out] News?……
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Native Vedda / November 10, 2014
K.A Sumanasekera
“Wonder how much does Mr Jayasooriya , our soon to be CC of the UNP, TNA, Diaspora Alliance pay the Editor of [Edited out] News?……”
Would you like to have a share?
Sorry are you demanding kappang from CT?
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BBS Rep / November 10, 2014
What a disgrace.
This fellow Karu has not even got the top job yet, but has decided that bribary is the best way to go about his business.
This is Sri Lanka. Nothing more and nothing less.
Those who clamor for a seachange are not going to get one, even if the Uncle Nephew Party should come to power.
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Sapumal / November 10, 2014
Even Mr.Jayasuriya offered a sum of financial help to Uvidu, without asking for cheap publicity doesn’t mean it’s a bribe. Even sandaruwan ask for financial support for LankaeNews. I indu did the right thing at that time. My question is why didn’t he reveal this at that time? Was he kept quiet until the right time? What is this hurry to reveal now? KJ may be the common opposition candidate to do specific job for people, and he might appointed as next president by the people. But not for ever. Only for 6 months under strict conditions. What you really expecting by your revelation? I think many people want to help you websites for the service that you render to the public. Can this be something like that or a bribe as you suggest!
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Upali Piyatissa / November 10, 2014
@Sapumal,
The answer is in the story – “In the wake of several news websites highly critical of the Government of Sri Lanka giving sudden prominence to UNP Gampaha District Parliamentarian and Chairman of the UNP’s Leadership Council Karu Jayasuriya, Colombo Telegraph is compelled to question him on the nature of his relationship with those who operate these websites.”
CT may want us to understand that Karu himself “manufacturing opinion” favourable to him using websites. I observed the same – lots of articles, fake opinion pols etc.
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Truthseeker / November 10, 2014
If it is the position of CT that Karu Jayasuriya tried to bribe CT (that is what the story implies) then there is a huge obligation on CT to its readers to prove the allegation beyond any reasonable doubt.
If CT fails, that would give rise to a very reasonable perception, that CT has been bought over by the corrupt Jarapassa regime.
Over to you CT.
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Dulan / November 10, 2014
Yes yes, that is why CT is blocked in Sri Lanka.
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Paul / November 10, 2014
Yes. Allegations of this magnitude cannot be made without some evidence.
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Patriot / November 10, 2014
Unbelievable things happen in this wonderland. Even COLOMBO TELEGRAPH has started canvassing for Rajapaksa. At a time when the opposition is in the verge of deciding on a suitable common candidate the newspapers have started to try and derail that effort. The Rajapaksas have got panicked of hearing that Ranil was forced to backtrack. Basil even has gone to meet Sobhitha Thera. Don’t know why? People should be worried about Sobhitha Theras safety. Rajapaksas are not having a presidential election TWO years before the scheduled date for the love of the people!!
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Naveen Putha / November 10, 2014
Uncle Karu is day dreaming to be the common candidate. The man who crossover to MaRa party, and came back after MaRa used F word to him.
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Average Joe / November 10, 2014
A used condom. Used by MaRa, GaRa and BaRa.
Ranil is the best.
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manjula fernando / November 10, 2014
This story ( I doubt it was recorded) shows the destructive power that certain journalists can exercise if they are so inclined. On one hand, if it is a gospel truth then the public should know the kind of things our politicians get up to behind closed doors. On the other hand, if the editor of CT has only told us a part of the truth ( of the conversation Karu/CT) , then we must question his power to make or break a man.
From all we have seen the CT appears to be setting high standards for itself which is a factor to consider. Hopefully we are not mistaken. The true character of those who control the media is a very
important consideration We cannot say that of many other journalists in Sri Lanka. One of the most controversial was the late Lasantha Wickramatunga, who some hail him as a martyr. This is mainly because the way he was killed, which we> also condemn. But Lasantha as a man and journalist was
another story.
>
It is well known that he was an all out UNP supporter ( although once a private secretary of Mrs. Srima Bandaranayake) and particularly completely behind Ranil Wickramasinghe. Although Lasantha was known as a journalist he was in reality a politician. It is well known that he was sure of a Cabinet posting in a future Ranil government (dreams are free !)
>
It is said lasantha had many secret dealings with unsavoury persons and institutions including the Indian RAW. Whoever fell out with Ranil especially in the UNP was immediately roasted in the Sunday
eader by Lasantha. One time Karu J was slandered, then it was Sarath Amunugama and then Nivad Cabrall( among many others) All of them may have committed some crime or the other. But they were kept silent as long as they served Ranil ! Many other citizens were similarly attacked and landered. Once their character is so slandered there is> no point in an small apology. Every telephone call from Lasantha was tape recorded for future use. Blackmail was a frequently suspected method.
>
That was Lasantha Wickramtungas ‘s journalism. The next to run the Sunday Leader was Frederica Janze> who seemed to have thought that a journalist could do anything with no> accounting to anybody. When she interviewed the all important Presidential candidate Sarath Fonseka in 2009 , she did not even carry a tape recorder ! Even a very junior journalist would have been sacked fo such an unbelievable incompetence. The lack of a recorded version of this interview were to have> such serious onsequences on many lives including that of Sarath Fonseka who ended up in jail ! When the Sunday leader could not make ends meet Fredrica and her new boss Lal ( Lasantha’s elder brother) got together and sold the paper to MR favourite Asanga Seneviratne of Stock market maneuvering fame. It> is alleged that the principals themselves earned commissions for this deal ! Both of them had no issues working for Asanga while the going was good. Finally Frederica ignored an order from a court of law and had to run away to the USA. She was in contempt of court. Although a fugitive from the law, she makes out that she was a victim of a> political persecution. In the USA , Frederica ended up in some obscure place called Puyallup in far away Washington State where according to her she invested $ 30,000 in a Steak House run by a Sri Lankan. She alleges that she was played out by this Sri Lankan subsequently. But no explanation from Fred rica how she managed to get such a large sum of US$ across when the official limit of remittance> from Sri Lanka ( there cannot have been an official remittance as she ran away illegally) is only US $ 10,000 . We would have thought that for such a “hot” journalist the American papers would have lined up to offer her positions ! But not even a newspaper in Puyallup gave her a job. That is the standard of Sri Lankan Journalism where the rest of the world is concerned.
Hope the CT is not on that slippery road.
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manjula fernando / November 10, 2014
This story ( I doubt it was recorded) shows the destructive power that certain journalists can exercise if they are so inclined. On one hand, if it is a gospel truth then the public should know the kind of things our politicians get up to behind closed doors. On the other hand, if the editor of CT has only told us a part of the truth ( of the conversation Karu/CT) , then we must question his power to make or break a man.
From all we have seen the CT appears to be setting high standards for itself which is a factor to consider. Hopefully we are not mistaken. The true character of those who control the media is a very
important consideration We cannot say that of many other journalists in Sri Lanka. One of the most controversial was the late Lasantha Wickramatunga, who some hail him as a martyr. This is mainly because the way he was killed, which we> also condemn. But Lasantha as a man and journalist was
another story.
>
It is well known that he was an all out UNP supporter ( although once a private secretary of Mrs. Srima Bandaranayake) and particularly completely behind Ranil Wickramasinghe. Although Lasantha was known as a journalist he was in reality a politician. It is well known that he was sure of a Cabinet posting in a future Ranil government (dreams are free !)
>
It is said lasantha had many secret dealings with unsavoury persons and institutions including the Indian RAW. Whoever fell out with Ranil especially in the UNP was immediately roasted in the Sunday
eader by Lasantha. One time Karu J was slandered, then it was Sarath Amunugama and then Nivad Cabrall( among many others) All of them may have committed some crime or the other. But they were kept silent as long as they served Ranil ! Many other citizens were similarly attacked and landered. Once their character is so slandered there is> no point in an small apology. Every telephone call from Lasantha was tape recorded for future use. Blackmail was a frequently suspected method.
>
That was Lasantha Wickramtungas ‘s journalism. The next to run the Sunday Leader was Frederica Janze> who seemed to have thought that a journalist could do anything with no> accounting to anybody. When she interviewed the all important Presidential candidate Sarath Fonseka in 2009 , she did not even carry a tape recorder ! Even a very junior journalist would have been sacked fo such an unbelievable incompetence. The lack of a recorded version of this interview were to have> such serious onsequences on many lives including that of Sarath Fonseka who ended up in jail ! When the Sunday leader could not make ends meet Fredrica and her new boss Lal ( Lasantha’s elder brother) got together and sold the paper to MR favourite Asanga Seneviratne of Stock market maneuvering fame. It> is alleged that the principals themselves earned commissions for this deal ! Both of them had no issues working for Asanga while the going was good. Finally Frederica ignored an order from a court of law and had to run away to the USA. She was in contempt of court. Although a fugitive from the law, she makes out that she was a victim of a> political persecution. In the USA , Frederica ended up in some obscure place called Puyallup in far away Washington State where according to her she invested
$ 30,000 in a Steak House run by a Sri Lankan. She alleges that she was played out by this Sri Lankan subsequently. But no explanation from Fred rica how she managed to get such a large sum of US$ across when the official limit of remittance> from Sri Lanka ( there cannot have been an official remittance as she ran away illegally) is only US $ 10,000 . We would have thought that for such a “hot” journalist the American papers would have lined up to offer her positions ! But not even a newspaper in Puyallup gave her a job. That is the standard of Sri Lankan Journalism where the rest of the world is concerned.
Hope the CT is not on that slippery road.
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K.A Sumanasekera / November 10, 2014
Poor Fredrika…
When did Srilankans cook Steak.
A Take out Curry Shop which specializes in Bistake in Stanton is understandable..
How did she run Sunday Leader if she is that naive to give a Srilankan 30, grand in Greenbacks. to cook Steaks…..
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