19 March, 2024

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RW’s Political Rating & Fitch’s Credit Rating

By Ameer Ali

Dr. Ameer Ali

With shortened and even total disappearance of human queues standing in hot sun or getting drenched in pouring rain, just to procure some cooking fuel or petrol and medicine or victuals, and with news of occasional price reduction on selected consumer items retailed through Sathosa, there is no doubt that the popularity of the man at the helm, President Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW) is on the rise for the time being and among ordinary folks.  That much must be admitted even by his worst critics. For a man who led his political party UNP, to a historic defeat in 2020, in which the party lost all but one seat it contested, including his own, this little reversal in popularity should be more than a welcoming news. Not surprisingly therefore, his party is now reported to be on a mission to recruit suitable candidates and looking for alliances to contest the next election, whenever its leader sees fit to call for one. It all depends on how the 2023 budget presented by him as Finance Minister is going to perform over the next twelve months. The positive rating of his political leadership would again be reversed if the budget creates more problems than it aims to solve.          

While RW has placed high hopes on the budget to set the economy along growth path and rapid transformation, and along the lines recommended by the IMF, the international credit agency Fitch, has further downgraded Sri Lanka’s credit rating from CCC to CC. That agency must have had a chance to study the budget, its promises and action plan before making its decision. Its downgrading therefore injects an element of pessimism on budget expectations.  On earlier occasions and during GR’s presidency when such downgrading was announced the then CBSL chiefs Professor WD Lakshman and Nivard Cabraal immediately accused the agencies of bias and unfairness. But this time, the new chief Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe had kept silent implying that there are grounds that warrant Fitch’s pessimism. 

Among the reasons the agency had given are, (a) probability of local currency debt default, because of high domestic interest payment/revenue ratio, high interest costs, strict domestic financing conditions and rising local-currency debt/GDP, (b) uncertainty over external debt restructuring, (c) doubts on budget measures for fiscal consolidation in spite of high rates of taxes, and (d) political risks. 

The first of these reasons arises mainly because of CBSL’s surrender to political pressure and therefore loss of its independence. That loss was particularly prominent during GR’s presidency. After appointing Lakshman as the chief, Gotabaya Rajapaksa (GR) virtually commandeered that institution and demanded cooperation from the monetary board to implement HIS economic policies which were more the outcome of thought bubbles than sound analysis of issues at stake.  In accepting his role of abject compliancy to a politician, the Professor shamefully contradicted Keynes who said, “Practical men, who believe themselves to be quite exempt from any intellectual influences, are usually slaves of some defunct economist”. Instead, the academic economist turned slave to a defunct politician. His successor, Nivard Cabraal, who already had a blemished record as CBSL Chairman over the Greek Bonds scandal, was politically astute and decided to go along with GR without any pretention of independence. Both chiefs silently watched the economy descending towards its nadir. Now the new man NW is trying hard to maintain a distance between political pressure and economic necessity, but supports RW’s view that hard decisions have to be made to avoid further worsening of the economy. RW himself has assured the bank’s independence. However, even with independence, central banks in general have become somewhat of an anachronism in a world of robotic financial capitalism, in which money itself has lost any specific definition. If one does not know what money is, how does one control its supply? Thus, to rely on any specific monetary policy to manage a modern economy is like shooting a bird flying in dark clouds with a rusted gun. Fitch’s downgrading in this context should be seen as an added pressure on CBSL to toe the line of IMF fully which, if happens, would reverse RW’s rising popularity sooner than later.

Regarding restructuring of national debt Fitch also has concerns. Recently, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning was reported to have called all creditors to cooperate with China to settle this problem to counter international community’s finger pointing at China for dragging its feet to come to the table for talks. The longer the delay in resolving this issue less would be the chances of receiving IMF’s $2.9 billion loan even by the end of March next year. That delay would jeopardize RW’s budget targets.         

Of all the reasons, it is Fitch’s doubts over financial consolidation that needs serious consideration. In one of the previous contributions to this journal (see, “RW’s Budget of Hopes and Politics”, Colombo Telegraph, 17 November 2022) it was pointed out that implementation was the weakest point in RW’s budget. That implementation itself is part of a larger issue of corruption in public administration. A shocking revelation by GMOA that a staggering sum of Rs. 773 billion of taxes and penalties remain uncollected by revenue officials is a telling instance of administrative inefficiency undermining any legislative decision. Of what use are new taxes, asks GMOA quite legitimately, if they cannot be collected? In the same vein, of what use are pious pronouncements of transforming the economy into an export driven dollar machine when a good part of the dollars accrued would escape into foreign bank accounts and tax havens? When elected members of parliament themselves are not fulfilling their tax obligations why should the others oblige? On one occasion, even the new CBSL chief urged tax administrators not to exempt anyone from fulfilling their tax obligation. Before him, when the World Bank set conditions for its financial assistance, the bank not only demanded structural reforms but more importantly, “the root structural causes that created the crisis”. It is that root which runs the SYSTEM. However, it is in improving the efficiency of tax administration in particular and administration in general that the fourth reason, political risk, arises. 

Financial scandals and plunder of public funds by political leaders and high officials have a long history in this country. For example, should anyone be reminded of the loss of $200 million in Greek Bonds during Cabraal as Governor of CBSL? Or, the saga of Bond Scam during MS-RW’s Yahapalana regime? Or, Rajapaksa family’s involvement in the Pandora Box revelations? GR promised to investigate the last, but it never happened.  Given this state of affairs in which rogues, looters and swindlers could get way with economic crimes, does anyone seriously believe that the tax department would be able to nab all tax dodgers, let alone scrutinizing the legitimacy or otherwise of sophisticated tax minimizing techniques adopted corporate entities and financial moguls? 

Without taking strong action against tax dodgers, corrupt officials and rogue politicians, some of whom are inside the parliament supporting RW’s presidency fiscal consolidation would remain an unrealizable objective. But to take strong action would undermine RW’s political manoeuvrability. This then is one side of the political risk that Fitch identified. The other side arises from a market equilibrium that keeps on shifting upwards, because of increasing scarcities and inflation, and deprives more and more individuals and households from enjoying the benefits. With insufficient income support and with inefficient distributive mechanism public discontent would increase.  People may endure difficulties for a short time provided the SYSTEM works impartially and injects confidence in speedy recovery. But the SYSTEM itself is fundamentally rotten and RW has no intention of throwing it out. While his political rating is currently pointing towards north, Fitch’s crediting rating and surrounding economic pessimism would eventually pull it towards south. It is to prevent this potential divergence that RW wants to stop another aragalaya at any cost. But can he?    

*Dr. Ameer Ali, Murdoch Business School, Murdoch University, W. Australia

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Latest comments

  • 23
    4

    Sham / Scam Lanka tends to blame any one and every one who genuinely tries to help them (countries, financial institutes, People – – – ). This failed nation is corrupt to the core. After years of Trump trying to shield his tax returns from public, today courts found Trump Organization guilty of all tax / financial fraud charges. As Asoka . S , mentioned, “never in Lanka”.

    • 16
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      Dr. Ameer Ali

      “With shortened and even total disappearance of human queues … there is no doubt that the popularity of the man at the helm, President Ranil Wickremesinghe (RW) is on the rise for the time being and among ordinary folks.” – Dr. Ameer Ali

      1) What NONSENSE for you to say “on the rise for the time being and among ordinary folks” with reference to UNELECTED President Wickremesinghe’s “popularity” despite saying “for the time being”. The ground reality would suggest that your belief would largely hold for the minuscule ‘elite’ population.

      2) Wickremesinghe’s “popularity” being attributed to “shortened and even total disappearance of human queues” is a SUPERFICIAL reading of the ground reality. For example, does the weekly fuel quota MEANINGFULLY resolve the problem?

      3) There are allegations of CORRUPTION in the purchase of fuel and cooking gas which have not been laid to rest. It is the FEAR syndrome that is keeping a lid on things – whether temporary or not only time will tell.

      (continued below)

      • 15
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        Dr. Ameer Ali (continued)

        4) You and all and sundry are AVOIDING the question whether “there could be REAL ‘systemic change’ brought about by ‘Aragalaya’ or any other without addressing the CORROSIVE link between politicians/professionals/private sector in FACILITATING corruption and abuse of power?”.

        5) Is ‘system change’ a mere PLATITUDE to all of you?

        Amrit Muttukumaru

        • 12
          1

          “no government will find it easy if taxes are not paid.”

          LM,

          Why, have Lankans stopped paying taxes? ………. Or, is there a country in Europe where the people have stopped paying taxes?

          Sure, I can talk about income vs. consumption taxes and how they are skewered to put the bigger tax-burden on the working-class and the poor who can least afford it. ……. Or how some countries in Europe increased the retirement-age to avoid paying retirement-benefits to bail-out big banks/business …….. that got into trouble due to their corrupt practices.

          Recently, I’ve noticed 2 things/trends ……..

          1. When our politicians robbed us blind and bankrupted the country and left us with no other option but to go to the IMF ……… many highly educated/qualified/experienced people …….. resorting to highest form of disgraceful intellectual dishonesty by blaming the IMF and exposing it’s vices and bad-practices. I have no time for these utterly dishonest pricks.

          Sure, the IMF is no saint. We all know what the IMF is what the IMF does. ………… But the blooming IMF didn’t ask or trap us to go into their arms. Our corrupt politicians delivered us into their arms!

          There are many countries who have stayed away from the clutches of the IMF! ……… For once in your sad sorry lives have the frigging intellectual decency to be honest!

          • 13
            1

            continued

            2. When the utterly immoral, insanely egotistical and madly ambitious to be president by any means and at any cost ………… and totally numb to people’s pain (let us be honest to admit AKD got this one right) …….. Ranil increased the consumption tax on the already starving, half-dead poor who can least afford to pay while trying to put food on the table for their children/families. ……. People have started this debate about taxes!

            Let’s face it, you are a Ranil supporter (I’m too! …. at times) and you have started this underhand wishy-washy debate about taxes to support Ranil’s utterly immoral taxes on the poor at a time they can least afford it.

            Why can’t you, with the least number of words just say, I don’t give a toss …….. let the starving poor be crushed to death with unbearable high taxes …….. while Ranil is having Tamashas with his already well-fed and bloated buddies of all-sides now that are his friends!

            • 13
              1

              continued

              C’mon LM, be honest ……it’s not that difficult.

              Sorry to say this LM, I find you totally intellectually dishonest in this regard (you have other good traits I admire.) I want to cut the bullshit and call a spade a spade.

              I hope you (and Ranil) are aware how unfair taxes ……. on the poor ……… triggered the French Revolution. ………. I feel the day is drawing near.

              I’ve already chartered a plane to pluck Native away.

              • 10
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                NF. I too got the feeling that LM is indeed dishonest. He knows how to twist and turn with some ulterior motives with excuses like he is too busy??

                • 11
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                  “his already well-fed and bloated buddies of all-sides now that are his friends!”

                  On TV, when I first saw Arjuna Ranatunga’s brother whatever his name is – the guy with a suspended jail sentence, now one of Ranil’s favourite ministers – I thought he was a woman with a short hair-cut pregnant with triplets walking around in a maternity gown. He walks like that ……. bent backwards and the massive tummy in front.

                  No wonder, Native hates women!

                • 0
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                  Hp
                  Now u may get back to ur buddy sinhala man, because you both seem to be against me. But NF understood that he accused me of nothing. I did nt stand against the poor and their tax burdens, get well soon!

              • 4
                8

                thank you NF.
                .
                1/
                The request was to start talking about taxes in general and compare it with countries with similar views and the western countries where you and I live.

                As always, I stand with the poor and their grievances, so I agree with you and others that the poor should be given more concessions but in a right manner.

                Current day Samurdhi takers are not screened properly. Even vehicle owners in rural corners are reproted to be Samurdhi takers.

                Some friends (doctors) who came to UK for PG education returned home saying that they could not understand the tax deductions from their monthly salary. In fact, they each only spent 3 years or so in that part of Europe.

                tbc

                • 5
                  10

                  2/
                  Paddeniya (the main culprit of “organic fertilzer” saga , a major criminal with a med brand, produced by srilanken free education though) and Bandula Gunawardena (a donkey in Sri Lankan politics) and many others accumulated a few hundreds of millions in rps in a short period of time because the state did not have such a tax system that focused on high income earners.

                  In Germany, Switzerland and other smaller countries in Europe, the more you earn, the more tax you are forced to pay. After studying at Unis, the bursaries must be paid to the graduates for the next 15 years. That way, the state revenue stays in a circle for the next batch of students to benefit from.
                  .
                  tbc

                  • 10
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                    3/You are unfortunately off topic. I will not support Ranil if the status quo is not removed. But I repeat, I don’t see anyone being able to handle the crap anyone can come up with, and he accepted the challenge. Also, I didn’t respect Sabri’s stance on Gota’s defense of about 34 cases filed against him (reports are out, I’m not sure). But to my surprise, his arguments in the “power” program did not contradict mine. I really don’t know what yours is.
                    Please check it.. link is given below.
                    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHMfKoJCaF4
                    Your comments are addressed by many in CT. So I humbly request that we discuss taxes so that they are worth discussing in depth. Others aimed to get more involved in exchanging their two cents on this critical issue of the country.

                  • 10
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                    the bursaries must be paid back to
                    .the state

                  • 7
                    3

                    PART ONE of Two
                    .
                    How can one have “serious discussions” with people who are constantly dehumanizing those whom they dislike?
                    .
                    I think that both Padeniya and Bandula Gunawardena are horrible people. But why is the spelling of the former constantly distorted in scatological fashion, and the latter referred to as an animal? I know that they’re both crooks; then call them that.
                    .
                    Since you are in Europe, dear LM, why not stay there instead of messing around with people for whom you have no respect? The foolish desire of many is to escape from this mess of a country; you have done so. Please stop your non-stop insults to our people. Cogitate on this:
                    .
                    https://www.heraldscotland.com/news/12152751.the-lesson-according-to-tawney-philosophy-of-tadpoles/
                    .
                    tbc

                    • 2
                      2

                      Panini E bearing NIC number known to entire world@

                      Q
                      Since you are in Europe, dear LM, why not stay there with people who don’t respect you?
                      Uq

                      I do live both in europe and my home country SL. If I may reimind you, that is my right. The same is valid for all that share their rights from the begining to now.

                      .Regardless of where I am based today, my homeland is my own country because i was born there , it shold be equal to all regardless of their ethnicity, race, creed or whatever. I am involving in charity work, but not being connected to NGOs… it is my own funds that I have been applying for that.
                      .
                      Even those smaller communities such as portuguesse or/and afro minorities should be able to enjoy the same. Now a new thought is being generated in my head, to help out the tiny minorities in SL. I dont know if I would have the luck to start with that, because hatreds, jealousies and other srilanken specific cultural barriers will definitely stand against me.
                      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZcdkQdTZ_U
                      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLZsQPea2Kg
                      .

                      tbc

                  • 7
                    2

                    PART TWO of Two
                    .
                    I know that there are three problems with my own observations here.
                    .
                    1. I, too am using animal analogies.
                    .
                    2. I have quoted this before, I think.
                    .
                    3. The discussion you wanted was on Taxation; you have been making some fairly good observations there.
                    .
                    However, so long as you, without any knowledge of living and working in Lanka, go on admiring Ranil, whom very few people approve of, as our saviour, I don’t see how we can discuss anything. Who on earth asked Ranil to accept so-called challenges. He’s manipulated his way into a job for totally selfish reasons. There was (and is) a solution. Consult the people; the only fair way is to conduct one of the three or four ways open, and let him not manipulate that as well.
                    .
                    Panini Edirisinhe

                    • 1
                      2

                      cont.
                      .
                      We (with the help of Europeans and Americans) pumped a lot of Tsunami funds into the country in 2005 and thereafter made us the exploiters of Rajapaksa’s funds.
                      .
                      That is why I sympathize with the poor people who are the real victims of the stupid politicians, brainwashers, media mafias and murderers in my native land today
                      The foolish desire of many is to escape this mess of a country; You have done so. Please stop the continuous insults to our people. Think about this:
                      Uq
                      :
                      This is again how you judge others without knowing the basics. My leaving behind all my periphenalia at Hilda Obeysekara building, that was to save my life from JVP barbarians. That was in late 80ties to early 90ties. Rwandans killed innocent civilians to the very same manner, JVP barbarians killed my mates incl. my sand box friends. I became PATACHARA, and her desnity. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patacara
                      You said you were working in Oman or Maldives at that time. Do I need to repeat this x times until you accept?

                      You must open your eyes. It will definitely help open the eyes of your age group. Being the drama queen you are, you can definitely do it. That we just witnessed in CT.

                    • 1
                      2

                      cont.

                      Hanging on to your hatred of the church community may have destroyed the last cells in your brain, at least not allowing you to see it right today.
                      You can become an expert on it as we are all forced to see it today. Most of the so-called “senior professionals” in that country are pure idiots. Either they gossip and worship heroes and waste their time. It has unfortunately become their culture. Do you see anything good in your Sri Lankan retirement community? They entered their retirement in the mid-fifties, but what have they been doing since then? In Europe we work until the age of 68. Even after retirement, a significant number do charity work and any voluntary work in their fields.
                      ….Instead majority of our retirees are real big pundits like you but in retrospect how did your guidance differ from the separatist Rajapaksas?

                    • 1
                      1

                      Dear leelagemalli, and Manel Fonseka,
                      .
                      I’m listening with a degree of attention to what AKD was saying in Milan;
                      .
                      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7F9O7JmfBc
                      .
                      This is possibly impossible to sustain.
                      .
                      Manel, I responded to some of your queries, at least.
                      .
                      Now, I’m listening to AKD at 43 minutes to what was being said in Milan. And he’s answering a question that LM asked me! I’ve never met AKD, but here he is explaining why he didn’t ask anything about Gota’s citizenship. The video is paused; I will hear it in a moment; LM, hopefully somewhat later. Manel, what do I say to you about this? Nothing.
                      .
                      I’ve heard. LM, please listen. DNA – not requested by me. I think that somebody joked about it.
                      .
                      I know that there’s one problem with all this NPP campaigning; it is in Sinhala, which many Tamil speakers don’t understand. What can we do? We need others to join in. Having got so far, let me play AKD’s response.
                      .
                      He does answer the questions about Gota’s cirizenship, and about Diana Gamage becoming an MP (and then crossing over to another Party). How satisfactory are his responses? Others can decide. I think that I must refer that to Jeevan Hoole, who doesn’t understand Sinhalese.
                      .
                      Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela

                  • 1
                    2

                    Dear leelagemalli,
                    .
                    I’m unhappy with the way you talk down to Lankans.
                    .
                    1. Could you please tell us if you still retain Citizenship of Sri Lanka?
                    .
                    2.. I have repeatedly complained to you that you make outrageous observations, and fail to substantiate them. You often follow that by saying untrue things about me. For example, that I don’t “know” Sinhalese, whereas I have only said that I won’t try to write. Even today, I addressed a local NPP meting in Sinhalese.
                    .
                    Why are you so keen bolstering your European claims? In my case I have only been stating that I, as a teacher of English have equipped myself with lots of European culture. Yes, I derive much pleasure from it, but also I see the pathos -e.g. the sad story of the last Royals of France.
                    .
                    Your hero, Ranil, was born into a very different society, and gives himself airs. You expect me to listen to hours of disgusting YouTubes, now I humbly request you to have a more balanced view of European History.

                    https://www.theguardian.com/world/2002/aug/04/humanities.books
                    .
                    Size did matter. That’s related objectively, and decently.
                    .
                    When you speak of people, you demean them, perhaps unconsciously.

                    • 1
                      1

                      Answers
                      .
                      1 – yes
                      .
                      2 – The answers will be provided to you later due to lack of time reasons.
                      .
                      3. I’m sorry, I feel like you’re just coming after me today…like the Sri Lanka Police? As if you have nothing better to do or address instead. btw …… this is not your diary entry, please remember this is a public forum.
                      Every citizen of the country should have equal rights. You prove again that you don’t know what it means even if you fight for minority rights

                    • 2
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                      (1)
                      SINHALA_MAN
                      On 4 Dec under the article: “Ranil’s Infidelity To Truth & Fair Play,” you posted these totally irrelevant, comments:

                      ‘And Manel, the name of whose hoity-toity husband was schooled in a “good ol’ Colombo Christian school” which he thought was not good enough for him, joins the chorus of those condemning the poor Godaya who tried to teach them English, here, in the middle comments: https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/midterm-us-politics-postterm-post-rajapaksa-politics/’ .

                      I have asked you several times, both online & by email, a) to explain why you were insulting my husband; b) how you presume to know (erroneously) what he thought about his school; c) why you dragged him into CT, anyway; d) to explain certain linguistically incoherent parts of your post; & finally, e) where I joined the chorus condemning you (I cannot find any such thing on the website you have given).
                      Cont….

                    • 2
                      0

                      2
                      SINHALA-MAN: I repeat:

                      1) What precisely do you mean by: “the name of whose hoity-toity husband was schooled”?

                      HOW does one “SCHOOL” a NAME?

                      Expert English teacher that u are, kindly explain that. Like peace, it passeth my understanding.

                      2) Why did you accuse my h of being “hoity-toity”? The last thing he was. Do you know what it MEANS?

                      3) What on earth is your evidence for saying he thought his school “was not good enough for him”?

                      4) Did you ever KNOW him or MEET him? Or are you going by the accusations of some who tried to stop him being employed here, & failing that, got him transferred to troubled hotspots in the middle of racial riots?

                      5) Why did you suddenly drag him into this forum/in this context, anyway?
                      Have u found some convoluted connexion between him & the subject of Vishwamithra’s article?

                      6) Where did I “join the chorus” condemning u? Please quote chapter & VERSE! We dont all maintain an indexed record of everything said on CT like you do.

                      7) Pray tell me, honourable teacher of English, is your sentence, “This comment will be seen by me only,” acceptable English here now? Just asking.

                    • 1
                      1

                      Sinhala Man (self proclaimed only)@
                      .
                      Do you want me to give you my DNA test results too?

                      We should have our own logic to wear anonymous usernames. No one will do that if the country was not a murderous country. I saved my life again inn last NOV IN SL. I was feared whereever I went to. I know I am not alone. Today there are more criminals than anti-criminals in that hell.
                      :
                      It is your own decision to display everything about yourself, your family, lineage, your DNA and yourself., I don’t know what you will come up with in the coming days….. About you….
                      The purpose of CT comments is to focus on the topic or what is relevant….not the details of the person…don’t you think so?
                      None of us should follow your advice… and why should we?. If we do that, we will surely get lost somewhere.
                      It’s common to any other forum… No one cares about the name, ID, the content of the comment is important. You are very specific with your “urgently specific questions”.
                      … Why do you think you should be busy with hunting things?
                      If a critical patient is brought to the ICU, talking about useless things will not help anyone. Likewise, when having an article, why not try to engage more with the article content than with the comments you disagree with?

                  • 2
                    3

                    PART TWO
                    .
                    Continuing:

                    What I’ve learnt about France and Lanka.
                    .
                    The Bourbons were Royalty. The monarchic system couldn’t be shrugged off, much as they would have liked to. Ranil is nothing of the sort. Our country is a democracy; no place for Kings.

                    .
                    Don’t compare the Reign of Terror in Eighteenth Century France with our restrained Aragalaya.
                    .
                    .
                    https://sites.psu.edu/snehaspassionblog/2018/09/29/the-locksmith-of-the-1700s-louis-xvi/
                    .
                    That’s what Louis XVI was.
                    .
                    The execution of the King and Queen,with the events leading up to them:

                    https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/marie-antoinette-facts-france-death-queen-anniversary

                    What Marie Antoinette was like:

                    https://surface.syr.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1295&context=honors_capstone

                    Ranil must learn to respect the norms that prevail in our society. He manipulated himself into a position where he is entitled to do no more than manage the affairs of our land until a more representative government is ushered in.
                    .
                    Most of us are determined to remain here,in what has been made a hell-hole by politicians. I spoke today at a small meeting, content to make one brief point. I’ll tell you the point, because you’re not conscioulsy a nasty man. I’m a humble guy, who doesn’t over-estimate my place today – an old pensioner, struggling to survive.

                    • 0
                      0

                      “I know that I myself say many foolish things on Colombo Telegraph;
                      but when pointed out, I’m usually given to breast beating.”

                      Really? SINHALA_MAN. That’s news to me.

                  • 2
                    0

                    PART THREE

                    Dr Ameer Ali is an Economist; you want to pretend that you’re one, and an expert in so many other fields. I have studied the series of articles that Dr Ali has been writing. Here, he’s been brilliant! He must have known that this article would lead to intense debate. When I first saw it, Amrit Muttukumaru had gone off at a tangent. That’s all right. There is genuine righteous indignation from him. My first brief comment was placed directly after Amrit’s first comment; it appears way below that now.
                    .
                    Ameer has spoken of what Ranil’s success seems to be to ordinary people. I feel that he will soon write questioning just how satisfied the people really are. Yes, for me, too, it is a relief that there are no queues but I’m a poor honest man who wonders what will happen when my meagre savings, meant for health emergencies are over.
                    .
                    I appeal to you as a friend to read carefully, and preach less to us.
                    .
                    And please tell us what your citizenship status is.
                    .
                    Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela (NIC 483111444V)

                    • 1
                      1

                      LM,
                      .
                      That response has got in. It’s a bit unclear where this subsequent comment should go in. A “Reply” doesn’t open directly below my answer, but I’m sure that this will appear somewhere.
                      .
                      Did I tell you this? good to know that you’ve kept your Lankan citizenship. Now for something that is NOT an order! Try to discover the good traits in Lankans as well!
                      .
                      Please send in any response you may desire to. You keep insisting on your “Rights”. Yes, you have the “Right” to do anything. However, it would be best for you not to tax the Editor personally (which is something that you have done.
                      .
                      This response is definitely going into “a wrong place”. It can get complicated, but I’m sure that there can be no perfect answer to “placing”. At least CT is fair and honest, and as impartial as can be – after one has reflected a little.
                      .
                      YouTube isn’t just terrible, but also dangerous.
                      .
                      It’s 6.20 am; time to say, “Good Night!”

              • 9
                0

                “I hope you (and Ranil) are aware how unfair taxes ……. on the poor ……… triggered the French Revolution. ………. I feel the day is drawing near.”

                The truth is that the F revolution was based on multiple factors. Hopefully commenters are not misled by NF’s above statement

                Economic Causes of the French Revolution
                • From the economic point of view, at that time the condition of France was worse than the rest of Europe. The primary reason for this was the grave expenditure of warfare, corruption, overbearing taxation, and the extravagant life of monarchy. The first and the second estate were kept tax-free. There was no computation of income and expenditure of the first two estates.

                • The seven years war emptied the treasury of the state. When King Louis XIV got the throne he inherited an empty treasury. Under Louis XVI’s rule, France was supporting American colonies in the freedom struggle. The war expenditure increased an extra debt of 1 billion livres (the unit of currency in France till 1794) to preexisting 2 billion livers.

                • 6
                  0

                  cont.
                  .
                  The 10% interest in the war debts kept increasing and pressurized the French government to increase the tax rates in the country. Along with several indirect taxes on daily use articles like salt and tobacco, direct taxes called Taille was collected by the government.

                  The first and the second estate were exempted from paying the taxes and the whole burden fell on the third estate. On one hand, where the peasants had to bear the burden of taxes the working class didn’t get their wages on time which pushed them further into poverty.

                  • 11
                    1

                    LM,

                    After reading your replies and thinking about them ……. I’m left with doubts if you genuinely wanted to talk about tax-reforms because that’s what’s happening in the country right now. ……… I might have made the wrong assumption and jumped the gun. …… In that case, I apologize unreservedly.

                    It’s a bad time for me to talk about genuine tax-reforms …….. as I’m so mad about Ranil’s taxes on the starving poor …….. without making any attempt to cut down on the waste and corruption …….

                    Perhaps, another time.

                    • 10
                      0

                      nimal fernando, leelagemalli,
                      I am enjoying your exchanges.
                      nimal,
                      “taxes on the starving poor without making any attempt to cut down on the waste and corruption”.
                      This, in a nutshell, is essentially our economic problem.
                      .
                      Waste in Government offices was ever a plague. Staff just warm their seats. (over-staffing)
                      Corruption was behind Jumbo Cabinet(s).
                      .
                      Anybody who believes in Ranil’s desire to reset our economy is as dishonest as Ranil himself.

                    • 1
                      1

                      NF,
                      That you repeat. is not that so ?

                      Perhaps you are infected with PANINI_ED syndrome (UVA Province SRILANKA). Because I don’t agree with his AKDISM, I have now become his easy prey for the past few weeks. He would have been hero-worshing on anyone if he or she would be supporting his newst ideology – AKDISM.
                      Btw, that syndrome is easily contagious.
                      :
                      The purpose of my initial request was to start discussing taxes in general so that everyone else in Sri Lanka can learn more about the taxes we pay in NA and Europe.

                      Anyway, thanks again for your valuable input, as many reviewers can gain a lot from your added points.

                • 13
                  1

                  “The primary reason for this was the grave expenditure of warfare, corruption, overbearing taxation, and the extravagant life of monarchy. The first and the second estate were kept tax-free.”

                  LM,

                  Exactly! …….. the same thing now happening in Lanka!!

                  You did it for me ………. I couldn’t have made my case any better than that!

                  Do you want me to go into ……. all the boring details?


                  The disingenuous part is …….. Ranil and his supporters are cunningly trying to frame this as if ……… the people are not paying taxes (especially the working poor.)

                  No such thing has happened: people have not stopped paying taxes. Even the poorest beggar is paying the VAT when he buys 50 grams of Parippu.

                  What the people are protesting is, the unbearable increase in taxes at a time like this ……… without cutting down on the wastage and corruption.

                  The zany thing is ……. every Lankan adult knows what I’m saying: it’s nothing new. ……… but the bleeding bloody obvious has to be repeated ad nauseam ……… to try to penetrate insincere minds.

                  I would have supported all of Ranil’s tax-measures if he had not appointed 37 ministers …… Simple as that! ……… Can one explain it anymore “simply” than that?

                  Case closed :))

                  • 8
                    0

                    LM,

                    I’m a gut-feeling man. ……. It was just a gut-feeling ……. now I did some “research” :)) …………. https://alphahistory.com/frenchrevolution/taxation/

                    “Taxation was a significant problem in late 18th century France. Most people with even a cursory understanding of the French Revolution understand that the taxation regime was a significant source of revolutionary grievances.”

                    “Excessive, inefficient, unfair
                    According to conventional wisdom, the Ancien Régime’s taxation regime was excessive, inefficient and unfair.
                    It was excessive because France had become one of the highest taxing states in Europe, chiefly because of its warmongering, growing bureaucracy and high spending.
                    It was inefficient because many taxes were collected by a network of private contractors dubbed ‘tax farmers’, a system that encouraged graft, corruption and tax avoidance.
                    It was unfair because the bulk of the nation’s direct taxation was levied on the Third Estate. France’s common people, who could least afford to pay, believed they were shouldering most of the nation’s tax burden while the privileged First and Second Estates paid little or nothing, despite their comparatively greater wealth.
                    Unsurprisingly, grievances about the Ancien Régime’s imbalanced

                    • 11
                      0

                      Continued,

                      Unsurprisingly, grievances about the Ancien Régime’s imbalanced taxation regime became a significant cause of the French Revolution.”

                      Don’t you think the similarities to Lanka are uncanny? ………. Do you want me to elaborate? Waste my time giving examples? Surely, you can make out the similarities yourself!

                      People do not come into the streets to protest against extravagance of the rulers: we have had it for decades. ………. What draws people onto the streets is hunger and the unbearable living-conditions. And now things are exacerbated by unbearable high-taxes. ………… “The last straw that breaks the camel’s back.” :))

          • 6
            0

            Nimal,
            The IMF exists, and pressures foolhardy populist governments to increase taxes, because there is no alternative in this unipolar world. Back in the 70’s, the Soviets would dole out the freebies if the US didn’t.
            Our highest tax bracket nowadays is 35%. Even people who earn just over 100,000 get taxed.
            Taxing the poor? To put it simply, the vast majority of the population is poor. For every Dhammika Perera, there are a thousand little guys. DP does pay billions ìn tax now, but the little guys put together pay hundreds of billions.
            But then, who were the 6.9 million?

            • 9
              0

              OC,

              I don’t know the finer details: I don’t follow things very closely, most of what I write is just my gut-feelings …….. 9:00 ……… https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtEkbOBywx8 ……. it looks like the casinos have not paid taxes for the all of last 5 years (shades of Trump) …….. I assume that’s Dhammika Perera.

              Harsha is making the case very well here with all the facts and figures.

              “the little guys put together pay hundreds of billions”

              Some time ago Warren Buffett – perhaps, the richest man now if he hadn’t give away part of his wealth to Bill and Melinda Gate’s Trust – wrote an op-ed piece where he was imploring the government to tax him more. He was giving all the figures where he was paying less tax than the lady who cleans his office or his secretary (I can’t remember which now.)

              There is a whole well hidden conservative movement, to force the government to shift the tax-burden on to the working-class (I think the term “poor” confuses the issue in a developed country …….. perhaps “less-wealthy” is the right term) …….. by reducing the income-taxes and increasing the consumption-taxes. There are many billionaires behinds the scenes – whose names you would’ve never heard of – contributing millions to the Republicans (in some cases to both sides) and conservative think-tanks to do exactly that.

              • 9
                0

                continued

                How their financial-clout persuaded/forced (starting with, of all people, Democrat Bill Clinton) to get rid of most of the legislation – Glass–Steagall Act of 1932 and a host of others – that were in place ……. to do their financial shenanigans that led to the GFC of 2008 …….. and its aftermath ….. where people’s taxes were used to bail out utterly corrupt Banks/companies/corporations (Too Big to Fail) is still kept under the carpet and not fully exposed – like most Lankans, people are blissfully ignorant.

                No one went to jail except Raj Rajaratnam …….. there was one guy Steven Cohen whose private company was fined 1.8 billion in fines for insider trading but he never went to jail. That was one of Raj’s biggest gripes. That’s influence/corruption for you.:))


                To talk about genuine tax-reforms in Lanka, I don’t even know where to start!

                All what Lanka needs is, not nimal fernando to talk about tax-reform which he knows next to nothing ……… but one genuine honest man/leader: he’ll do the rest ……. and Ranil is not him. ……… (or in proper English, should it be “he?” …….. let me start off a whole new debate :)) ……… Native is hiding! )

                • 8
                  0

                  Nimal,
                  This country’s economy is totally distorted. A million able bodied males driving 3 wheelers. Another 300,000 in the army. The richest guy in the country runs gambling dens and brothels, and avoids taxes by funding the ruling party. But he’s caught in the latest casino tax……
                  https://www.ballyscolombo.com/events-and-entertainment

      • 12
        6

        Dear Amrit,
        .
        Although almost everything that you say is valid, I don’t think that your assessment of this article is correct.
        .
        This is a brilliant article, if read carefully.
        .
        Thanks, Dr Ameer Ali.

  • 13
    7

    Dr Ameer Ali,

    An insightful article,

    Credit rating is a tool for policy makers in Sri Lanka and for the prospective donors.

    It is only an indicator. We need not give more weight than actually due.it is a warning nobody could ignore.

    It is not the downgrading per se, but what caused that downgrading that is important.
    We ignored it in 2019 and faced the peril
    .
    We need not unduly worry about the downgrading, provided we have a viable plan to stabilize and move forward.

    • 12
      12

      “For a man who led his political party UNP, to a historic defeat in 2020, in which the party lost all but one seat it contested,”
      It actually lost all seats.
      Election-winning ability and economic ability are two different things. If they were the same, Gota, who promised heaven on earth, would be presiding over his vistas today.
      Ranil loses because he is un-charismatic, and most people don’t understand what he’s talking about, even though it is usually true.
      If elections were held today, the populists would win, but the country’s situation would worsen, because no populist would implement the sort of belt tightening that goes on now.

      • 24
        2

        Dear old codger,
        Despite the respect I have for you, you make statements that need to be challenged.
        … ‘no populist would implement the sort of belt tightening that goes on now.’
        Isn’t Ranil another populist?
        … ‘Ranil loses because he is un-charismatic.’
        Do you consider the Rajapaksas charismatic?
        (At least Ranil is ‘believably’ intelligent. No such luck for Rs)
        I don’t believe in Ranil. He is more deceptive.
        … ‘most people don’t understand what he’s talking about.’
        I think, just the opposite. People have begun to ‘understand’ him, now.
        .
        (I am a gambler. My horse is not Ranil.)

        • 9
          14

          Nathan,
          .
          RW is always misunderstood by srlankens. Do we have any other options Nathan ?
          .
          To me, CBK saved the country at the time TSUNAMI distroyed it…. if not for her, no rich nations could provide the nation with that much of funds. whole lot of our people are racists.. that is known to europeans. above all those YELLOW PETS are the worst of all.

          But he always predicted that the nation would face an economic crisis in 2022/23. And the only way is to go back to the IMF. All these 6.9 million grass eaters were completely ignored and made way for the known demonic leaders. It was good for Gotabha to be a man on the gallows and not good for a head of state. However, he can do town decoration or similar tasks like any soldier.
          .
          Today he has become a scapegoat again. He knows that this nation would go on adulating ” real criminals again anda gain”.. but RW WOULD BE HATED forever… that is what he repeats each time ” i am the only person being CAUGHT by attacks most by this very nation”.
          .
          As repeated somewhere, why are Singaporeans putting up with Arjuna Mahendran not being punished? Singapore is not Sri Lanka… a country with strict law and order.

          • 17
            7

            leelagemalli,
            ‘RW is always misunderstood by Sri Lankans’.
            I really don’t know what you mean.
            I don’t trust Ranil to manage the country properly.

            • 6
              10

              Nathan,
              Extremists (religious, ethnic and political) never allowed reforms to be passed for sustainable solutions.
              It seems this would remain further. No chances to change it as I see it, if media would not take the lead.The Sri Lankan diaspora (not only tamil, but sinhala, burghers, muslims and all) can see proper solutions but they do not understand the level of the real mess in Sri Lankan society. So, outsiders would not be able to help much.
              .
              Sri Lankan main stream media, if would realize the need of the hour, can act if they really intend to. SIRASA TV singlehandedly stood against UNP during GOOD GOVERNANCE period.

              The nation is in chaos, TV channels are doing business as usual. How melcha should they be? Senior lawyer, honourable Nagananda Kodituvukku once revealed how much TV channels earn for a 30-minute telecast of a political programme.

              • 16
                2

                LM,

                You wanted me to talk about taxes ……… do you want me to talk about taxes in general ……… or do you want me to talk-about/justify the high taxes now imposed on the Lankan populace?

                They are two different issues and need to be discussed separately to avoid any confusion.

                • 5
                  9

                  NF,
                  .
                  Thanks, I focused on taxes in general, dirty politics are their control tactics, tax reductions in our developing country..that’s not right either, but comparing here I see Europeans pay 20-40% or more. . Otherwise the countries will stagnate. Now caught in a cold, penetrating winter, no government will find it easy if taxes are not paid.

                  I was taken aback and devastated by AKD’s strong opinion, especially in today’s context where he assures that their NPP will give tax breaks to the people. Are these just fairy tales of high grade ?

                  Furthermore, AKD had to address a large meeting last week challenging that the machines could generate hydraulic electricity without using oil. Accordingly, he promises to produce electricity more cost-effectively once he takes control.
                  .
                  Especially countries like ours are not blessed with rich soil resources like oil, heavy metals and other precious materials. Nation’s pig though once turned the island nation upside down by having said, that we have oil recourses in nothern soils. Now it is revealing those are all misleading tactics of SLPP.
                  So how can our governments (ie developing countries) be without taxing the people?

                  • 5
                    5

                    I have never found AKD talking rubbish. This is where, LM, you would have done well to have not only directed us to the YouTube, but also say which small section you want us to focus on.
                    .
                    AKD speaks in Sinhalese, we discuss in English. What was this “hydraulic” electricity? Anura usually says that the details of anything will be worked out by those who know the subject.
                    .
                    However we (I mean those people who pay some attention to logic) all know that energy can’t come out of nothing. The term “Hydro-electricity” will mislead only the totally gullible. What we mean is using the kinetic energy of falling water, not “burning water”, because water is already a burnt out substance. Champika Ranawaka knowingly misled the gullible on that issue.
                    .
                    If you want to star a serious discussion on this subject, you must make sure that you are not biting off more than you can digest.

                    • 6
                      0

                      SM,
                      “because water is already a burnt out substance.”
                      Congratulations!
                      I didn’t expect a “gambada Ingirisi.”
                      to be aware of that.

                    • 1
                      3

                      Let me be short and sweet. “AKD Saranang Gachchami” I bless you without opposing you. But we see a little beyond your naivety and narrow-mindedness. I am among the few people who predicted that this country will fall into the abyss if Gota becomes president. It fits like a glove.
                      .
                      Your unique problem is that you don’t have a proper source to check that you are being given the correct information. I urge you to check your information by listening to other sources as well. If you all listen to one man, you will automatically be like “Saibaba followers of India”.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNVJyycAZYw

                      TBC

                    • 1
                      2

                      SM,
                      Now the million dollar question arises, if everything you say about AKD and JVP is true, why on earth did the people of that country with high level of literacy (93%) not recognize him as his voice?
                      .
                      The JVP and NPPs should do their homework and act on their failures as to why they failed to reach out to the villagers whose voting is the deciding factor in srilanken elections.
                      And not forgetting the place given to CHEEVARAYA community. . have they succeeded it ? Opinion polls Of the day say, their rates are not favourable today again. Why is that ?
                      .
                      1) By feeding people astrology, sorcery, sorcery and various other myths, people become completely stupid so that people cannot accept any truth.
                      .
                      2) One thing is very clear to us living outside the country, the people have been deceived more than ever in the last 2 decades.
                      .
                      3) Who did that perfect brainwashing job if not PVT TV media channels in Sri Lanka? and biased print media.
                      We know how mischievous and biased they can be.

                    • 1
                      1

                      EVIDENCE NUMBER 1

                      Naive sm is no one else now lies. I had some respect for this commenter, but in retrospect I should have been blind. Some left being unable to bear his attacks while others remain.
                      :
                      As most of us agreed I am not a supporter of UNP or any political party, except RW there is no one to lead the country at this very critical moment.
                      :
                      In RW’s speech in Parliament recently he exactly said “They likened me to Hitler” but the JVP who claim to be intelligent leaders completely distorted it to “Ranil intends to be Hitler”… Biased media networks again fake public perception.
                      Here, Lalkantha and AKD were disntinctively wrong…. this is how they mislead the ultral stupid nation.
                      .
                      If you object to this, please provide links that may support us on the other hand. Thank you Sinhala man. Please answer this, thanks.

                  • 4
                    3

                    Dear LM,
                    .
                    I’m about to turn off the computer to get some sleep; however, before I do that I’d like to share this 13-minute video of AKD, explaining how NPP policies contrast with what we have had hitherto:
                    .
                    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ra6BzOpdd1g
                    .
                    This is only a day old and it sounds as though Anura has heard your criticisms!
                    .
                    Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela (NIC 483111444V)

                    • 2
                      3

                      Cont.
                      .
                      Unfortunately, this is no different from the terrible problem of minorities in this country. We know very well how much they suffer not being able to communicate in Sinhala. I also see that many immigrants in Europe suffer from not being able to understand the language of the country. So please think before you jump to attack me.

                      Honestly, I see some progress by AKD and his forces in standing up to the “political games” that resemble the fate of an innocent rabbit caught by a python. People are naive like you or going beyond your levels. They do not see the depth of destruction before them.

                      Although AKD’s creative logic made him a popular singer. Can you expect an “ear cleaning spoon to remove large piles of debris”? Hard work, isn’t it?

                      But I don’t think JVP is strong enough to lead this nation.

                      They must first get rid of evil, narrow attitudes. Jealousy and let them balance. The biggest problem for them is treating the alleged criminals as if they were real “big thieves”. Some of them were made to mislead the nation. That they are still inseparable. This is my subjective thoughts, so please leave it to me. I thank you.

                    • 1
                      1

                      Dear Leelagemalli,
                      .
                      I don’t want to lose you as a friend, but when I see a statement like this what can I possible do, except draw the attention of readers to your blissful unconcern for logic, and the harm being done by you?
                      .
                      “This is my subjective thoughts, so please leave it to me. I thank you.”
                      .
                      If it so subjective, that only you can make sense of it, please do not publish any more comments. Your comments are seriously harming 22 million human beings. Wars don’t kill as many as famine sometimes does. How many died in China, before Mao ensured development; and under Stalin in Russia; also, in many African famines?
                      .
                      I know that I myself say many foolish things on Colombo Telegraph; but when pointed out, I’m usually given to breast beating.
                      .
                      It’s sad to see you getting so stubborn, LM.
                      .
                      I still think that you are a decent guy, but this seals my estimation of you. Naive? No; moronic!
                      .
                      I’m sorry that I have to be so blunt.
                      .
                      Panini Edirisinhe

                    • 1
                      0

                      Mr. SM, you may be a senior but today I am losing respect for you because you hit on every word and made everyone else speechless. I would further say learn it from senior commeters like Manel, S.J.

                      I don’t always agree with them but I respect them for one thing, they know how to behave in CT when you threaten us today. Besides, they set an example for many.
                      They also add their thoughts regularly with their comments, but don’t act like you. Is it rocket science to figure it out?

                      This makes me angry, please let me remind you that the first thing you need to know is that you have no authority to order anyone to behave in CT. For your note, so Long CT guidelines are respected by any reviewer, or commenters, be it subjective or objective, and he or she can offer own opinion.
                      Unlike your newly found JVP brothers, we also make mistakes because we are human (they are murderers remember, how they killed my brothers in 89 ?). I didn’t know they could turn you into their creatures, so that was a scary thing to experience.

            • 3
              0

              Nathan ,

              ” I don’t trust Ranil to manage the country properly ” . So do the
              rest of the country ! Everybody , except Ranil , knows he is a
              stage puppet ! We all know how he ascended to UNP leadership !
              There was a separatist war , loss of UNP leaders and and Ranil
              was lucky , sheer luck for him and the opposite for the party ! It
              is nearly the same today and the only exception is , 6.9 million
              caused it with its racist votes ! He is now showing his real face !
              Populism to Tyranny , Dictatorship ,oppression and so on . The
              Tax that was necessary then and always , didn’t show its face
              when faced with election but now , with the appointment out of
              the blue many bitter medicines are ready for the dying masses !
              Tyrants are manipulating as long as the public is left without
              help ! Nothing to do with education or intelligence !

          • 12
            7

            LM. I think you need to go back to school.

          • 9
            2

            My Friend LM: Could you pl. listen to the link below. Please, when you are listening forget who is delivering it but purely concentrate on the FACTS stated.

            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWuuO7A6bo

            Dr. Ameer Ali: Pl. listen to it. You will know what “RATINGS” the “Ordinary Falks” are feeling and also the “RATING” of Ranil W.

            • 6
              6

              Bro Simon,
              .
              thank you, unfortunately the video is not available.
              .
              Be careful of the smoke that hangs over Sri Lanka these days. There are speculations that the fumes may contain some explosive gases.

              • 6
                1

                My Friend LM: Go to “Google” and type “Siyatha TV”. Click on the 2nd line “Siyatha TV” and scroll down to view “Turning Point”. You will get the program with AKD’s picture under NPP. The video is available.

              • 4
                0

                Dear LM: I have been bothering you with NPP’s heretics. Here I give you a link that would inform you of the biggest problem S/L is faced with seen by a Research Expert. Listen to what he says. Our problems are not addressed from the corrective perspective.

                https://www.youtube.com/watch?=HffvB6xHZW

                I don’t know it is available still. This was a speech given by the MD of VERITAS Research on 9-12-22.

                • 1
                  2

                  Thank you SIMON, I will check it.. btw, did you know that we have an afro srilankens in Puththalam ?
                  .
                  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IZcdkQdTZ_U
                  .
                  See how destitute these people live here. Until recently, the Maharajas claimed that there were no “huts or palpaths” in Sri Lanka. Thanks to social media, everything is now being revealed.
                  Kenyans must know that most of our people are barbarians, that’s why he said, “The people of this village will not accept him,” he said.

                • 1
                  1

                  I’ve seen it, but there’s another inexplicable problem opening it.
                  .
                  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G887xWKqDp8
                  .
                  I don’t think that I will have the time to attend to it tonight; YouTubes is a subject that somebody with technical knowledge must research.
                  .
                  Somehow I landed there. It’s a good Sinhalese video, of 19 minutes reporting on what an ass Ranil has been, when celebrating his Jubilee, or whatever, as a lawyer.

              • 0
                0

                This appears to be a 72 minute video of AKD making a speech, in Sinhalese, in Milan, Italy, a month ago.
                .
                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3tFTiF73Mk
                .
                I acknowledge this; I fell asleep, to find this playing:
                .
                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOaEeVAlmL4
                .
                This is ninety minutes on Siyatha TV.
                .
                I make this confession with some trepidation; it is impossible to keep up with all this. Literally.
                .
                And here he is AKD, put on just yesterday, the 11th, December. Forty seven minutes; AKD undertaking to answer any question, this also from Milan on the 11th.
                .
                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n7F9O7JmfBc
                .
                AKD is amazing; for years now he’s been doing this: responding about specifics, without a note in front of him.
                .
                LM; I know that you won’t be able to evaluate all this by yourself. I appreciate your efforts. But don’t complicate by throwing even more at us. When I’m up at least, I’m listening with alertness.
                .
                Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela

            • 7
              0

              Btw, Simon Mahaththayo,
              .
              “Dr. Ameer Ali: Pl. listen to it. You will know what “RATINGS” the “Ordinary Falks” are feeling and also the “RATING” of Ranil W.”

              Wasn’t it compared x times before previous elections? I am one of the few who wished NPP to score more in 2019 and 2020.
              :
              But remember those same voters, did everything to put NPPrs 5 to 3.

              Is that heaven-earth prophecy?
              So how do you trust the majority of voters in srilanka?

              • 8
                1

                My Dear LM: Thanks. I too wished NPP to get at least 10-20 seats in Parliament. If that happened, SLPP would not have been able to act in a dictatorial manner such as passing the “20 A”. Please remember that this happened because of the frustration spread among a large majority of utter failures of the “Yahapalanaya” of “Ranil/MY3”. Remember even Ranil W could not win the election.

                Now the same situation prevails. “Ranil/Rajapakse” faces the same fate. Do you not notice a large majority’s admissions and confessions that they made a “Mistake” and got “Deceived” at the last election? That is the “Reality” of voter mentality in S/L. This has to change. NPP is trying hard to do that. I wish they would and could do that.

            • 6
              3

              Confirming “leelagemalli’s” finding: this video seemed unavailable @ 04.00 hours, Sri Lankan time.
              .
              However, on clicking further, I got here:
              .
              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWuuaO7A6bo
              .
              Comparing: that’s the same isn’t it?
              .
              Having listened to that for 14′ 45″, I again tried by pasting the URL, and then found it unavailable. I thereafter went through YouTube, asked for videos with Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and got at this:
              .
              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_9cpIQdTzE
              .
              This is 14′ 54″ – longer by 9 seconds. Appears to be the same, but it also shows some fat man getting into the Speaker’s Chair.
              .
              I’ve made comments, and they appear to be NOT getting removed.
              .
              I’m grateful to LM for now saying that he wishedd the NPP to get more in 2019 and 2020. Bur his identity is a secret to most (not to me) and he never votes. Is he actually a citizen of Lanka?
              .
              I’m one of those who voted so as to get at least 3 MPs in, and I had voted for AKD in 2019 (the only Preference actually counted).
              .
              Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela (NIC 483111444V)

            • 4
              3

              “leelagemalli” says that he couldn’t access this;
              .
              These Youtbes behave in strange ways. I’ve been there about 20′:10″ Lankan Time.
              .
              https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NWuuaO7A6bo
              .
              I’ve not only been there, but made this comment:
              .
              “Panini Edirisinhe
              Panini Edirisinhe
              17 minutes ago
              A very sound comment. Plain speaking, so as to be understood by all. I understand the gravity of what is said here, and the responsibility with which AKD is speaking. If anybody who was expecting fireworks, and finds this almost boring, I say to you that your desire to stir emotions shows how superficial your approach is.”
              .

        • 18
          2

          Nathan

          “Isn’t Ranil another populist?”

          Nopes.
          He maybe unusually well informed for a politician, he is utterly boring for people who vote for Gota, and his fellow racists.

          “Do you consider the Rajapaksas charismatic?”

          Yes Mahinda is, however please consider this ” as an actor he was flop, as a politician he is a very good actor.

          “(I am a gambler. My horse is not Ranil.)”

          Welcome to Nimal’s camp.

          • 9
            2

            Charismatic: exercising a compelling charm.
            Mahinda has charm? Mahinda knows how to harm.

            • 11
              3

              Nathan,
              Mahinda and his charismatic nature? I would rather talk about Juliampitiya Amaraya (the murderer who is currently in jail) than the mass murderer Mahinda Rajapaksa. Mahinda is a true actor, his true nature may not even be known by his shiranti. I bet you… it’s true.
              .
              He may have the typical Sri Lankan stuff that a leader in a society dominated by idiots should have. Knowing that, AKD must have continued to grow his beard. Mustache, neckband, wearing of malakur, internal and external body parts, witchcraft, sorcery, astrology. Above all the desire to imitate “Sadhu Sadhu” and go to the yellow pets and lick the “bo tree”: all the above Sinhala idiots want to be a giant leader.

              • 12
                1

                Sorry, …. there is one more characteristic I missed above… licking babies and children to show that “he is a loving caring father”. That’s how the term “Daddy” came about.

                The truth is that his true nature is no different from a mindless mother cat that eats kittens. Mahindaya has been doing that ever since.

            • 12
              0

              Nathan

              “Mahinda has charm? Mahinda knows how to harm.”

              Of course those who had charisma had historically harmed humanity, for example Hitler, Churchill, Napoleon, …… Wimal Sangili Karuppan, Anagarika, …

              • 7
                2

                NV,
                .
                “Of course those who had charisma had historically harmed humanity, for example Hitler, Churchill, Napoleon, …… Wimal Sangili Karuppan, Anagarika, “
                I would never compare Wimal Sangili Weerawansa’s inferiority complex and low level of education (a school dropout) with Anagarika. ….. flock of birds together… .
                Instead I would like to compare Wburuwanse with a self-proclaimed political analyst such as DJ.

          • 14
            1

            “He may be unusually well informed for a politician”

            So well informed to appoint 37 ministers when the country is bankrupt!

            Who are we trying to fool Native? Yes, who are we trying to fool? ……. EE?

            Everyone will gladly drink their poison ……. if one can find their Achilles heel to administer it! :)))

            • 12
              2

              nimal fernando

              “Who are we trying to fool Native? Yes, who are we trying to fool? ……. EE?”

              We are are trying to fool ourselves. We have done it in the past 74 years and happy to continue for another, ….. years.

              “Everyone will gladly drink their poison”

              How did Gota manage to feed poison to 6.9 million?

              • 2
                5

                NV,
                .
                This vicious cycle cannot be easily changed and it will take a long time for people to notice a change.
                The Janata Vimukthi Peramuna, which has remained in Sri Lankan politics for the past three decades, will not bring that change. That self-proclaimed sinhala man from Bandarawella who sings a song for them today will see it sooner than later. He takes some more time.

                NPP is good, but their composition is still not clear. As mentioned elsewhere, there are few good and honest politicians in other parties too. My hope is that they join hands with NPP or whatever new party filled with all good candidates but young. THe name of the party is irrelevant. .
                A new movement can do more than any other existing party, if only the people would see it right finally.

                • 5
                  2

                  For politicians to attain name-recognition takes time. Getting to know aspiring leaders takes time.
                  .
                  It is a task, where we, the public, also have to show a desire to get to know them. However the process can never be the mechanical process of learning names and googling. It’s got to be, by seeing people in action.
                  .
                  Yes, of course, there are other “good and honest politicians in other parties, too. However, the NPP is already a coalition, and a quite successful one so far. They are working with other parties to demand early elections, but they can’t merge on all issues. They have to maintain their identity. I haven’t yet taken on membership. I desire it, but it’s not so easy. However, that doesn’t irk me. We just work together.
                  .
                  If not for Proportional Representation, the NPP wouldn’t have any MPs; In this we are helped by having PR, which is far superior to First Past the Post (FPTP). We have allowed it to be ruined by permitting cross-overs. That is totally irrational; these are people who have been elected not as individuals, but on the basis of a manifesto that they put forward.
                  .
                  Panini Edirisinhe of Bandarawela
                  .

                • 5
                  3

                  The overwhelming majority have to be young, and at least a third have to be women. The NPP appointing Harini Amarasuriya was an excellent and significant.
                  .
                  “All to be young”. That is simultaneously too rigid, and too vague. I think that there are “rules”. They have to respected; we don’t want innumerable trips to Law Courts to enforce it. It is voters who must ensure that.
                  .
                  Diana Gamage can’t be an MP! The point was excellently made in the video that Simon linked us to. The one which showed Ranil knowingly saying that he was right to issue a Red Diplomatic Passport. I must sleep now, but I’ll link you to it tomorrow.

                  • 0
                    1

                    Dear “leelagemalli”,
                    .
                    I’m sorry. I’m finding it difficult to assess your attitude to many things, including what you say to Rani’s response to this M.P. Currently, he appears to belong to the SJB, but these are people who were once in the UNP led by Ranil.
                    .
                    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7G8h4QaRFs
                    .
                    This is clearly been said in the presence of Ranil Wickremasinghe. I’m hoping that Simon will help out with this and tell me if two similar speeches (the other with reference to Diana Gamage), were made. I’m not holding LM in any way responsible for this confusion, but a clarification from anybody would be welcome. We’re told that this speech had been made on the 5th of December, but is now appearing only on the 11th. I have made a comment there.
                    ..
                    At the end of that video Ranil Wickremasinghe laughs off the issuance of a passport to Diana Gamage who is allegedly not a Sri Lankan citizen.
                    .
                    Panini Edirisinhe

        • 8
          11

          Nathan,
          “Isn’t Ranil another populist?”
          You must be joking. He doesn’t make thundering speeches promising to defend the Sinhala Buddhists from all comers, or promise free jobs for all, does he? He has no signature “saatakaya” , nor does he have a fan following of monks. That’s why he loses elections. People vote for candidates who are like them. Ranil is seen as insensitive to their needs.
          But then, do you give your kids everything they want? I don’t.

          • 12
            0

            old codger,
            Intrinsically every politician appeals to ordinary people.
            Srimavo implemented belt tightening long before Ranil.

            • 9
              4

              How tight was the belt?
              There was restriction on transport of rice in view of hoarding leading to shortages.
              It was drought driven rice shortage and short supply of wheat that caused food shortage. But food substitutes were encouraged despite cynical attacks by vested interests on the food drive.
              We also forget the impact of the many fold rice in price of petroleum in 1974.
              If there was serious shortage, it was in the plantations where employment was badly hit by two years of drought, and there was little opportunity to plant manioc as substitute. also the plantation workers depended heavily on wheat flour for their roti meals.

              • 15
                1

                “There was restriction on transport of rice in view of hoarding leading to shortages.”

                Here we go again and again and again,…..
                My friend from Jaffna tells me how hard it was to pay for rice and other essentials. The weeping widow did not allow rice being transported to Jaffna apart from a small amount. However this restriction according to him was enforced only beyond Elephantpass. Rest of the island did not have such restriction. When this was raised in the parliament NM Perera (So clever World Bank, IMF, USA, …. wanted to research his brain) told the Tamil MPs, Jaffna Tamil women could sell their gold and buy rice.
                -.
                Perhaps the all-consuming first teenage love towards …. still …..
                Though painful maybe now is the time to belong to the larger world, please move away from the childish infatuation and grow up.

                • 1
                  6

                  Seems like you did not have a good night’s sleep.
                  It is hard to focus on things, but do not worry.
                  It will pass when you gave some good rest.
                  Did you find the doctor (not any quack)?

                  • 4
                    3

                    It will pass when you have some good rest.
                    Take care.

                • 4
                  0

                  Native,
                  “However this restriction according to him was enforced only beyond Elephantpass. Rest of the island did not have such restriction.”
                  Being probably older than your friend, I can confirm that the restrictions applied between all districts. I saw the miris pollas and haal pollas all over the country.

                  • 6
                    0

                    old codger

                    Thank you.
                    Okay, what was the big idea behind those restrictions?
                    Did NM seriously believe he could solve food problem by restricting distribution of rice and Chilly?

                    Amartya Sen wrote in the 1970s India produced sufficient food, however the problem with shortage was due it lack of good distribution network and transport system.

          • 10
            0

            OC
            “But then, do you give your kids everything they want? I don’t.”
            But I am sure that you provide everything that they need to ensure that they are fed, clothed, educated and remain healthy.
            The threat of undernourishment is serious with many forced to skip meals.
            I will not blame it all on RW (as a good part of it is inherited), but he is not doing enough to address this serious issue..

            • 3
              3

              SJ,
              “But then, do you give your kids everything they want? I don’t.”
              Perhaps that should have been “Do you give your kids everything they ask for?”

            • 8
              0

              “I will not blame it all on RW (as a good part of it is inherited), but he is not doing enough to address this serious issue..”
              -.
              Blame it on Ranil anyway, or JR, UNP, USA, Capitalism, Democracy, Liberalism, Tamils, India, …….. Chelvanayakam, ……

              • 9
                2

                Oh dear you are now a Ranil fan too!
                I think that you need that rest very badly.
                Take care, try to be happy, and most importantly remember to smile.
                Wish you an early recovery.

                • 2
                  0

                  Native,
                  “Did NM seriously believe he could solve food problem by…..”
                  Even Communism is a good idea, basically. Who doesn’t want equal pay for equal work, etc etc? But the system is administered by fallible and self-interested humans. Maybe NM would have succeeded if he had AI in the 70’s?

                  • 2
                    0

                    old codger

                    “Even Communism is a good idea, basically.”

                    Of course theoretically and what it promises to fulfill, however its track record shows otherwise. Every state/ party that promised to deliver communism or equality failed to deliver, failed miserably,…..

                    However Social democracy has so far delivered (relatively), least of all the standard of living in those countries seem better than the countries that promised Maoism, Stalinism, …… Communism, Peronism, Pol Potiasm, ….. Bastardized Socialism in Sri Lanka, …. People should ask themselves an important question, “how did Banda-ism produce a racist prime-minister (in Dinesh) even after Aragalaya?

                    I agree I am much younger than any of you and less experienced and much less educated than many of you in this forum, I would like to ask you why didn’t weeping widow and her merry men chose the economic path/policies (1970s perhaps W. Arthur Lewis model) that Japan chose in the early 1960s (light engineering and consumer durable, consumer electronics, textiles route, …)?

                    • 0
                      0

                      Native,
                      Check at the bottom of the page.

      • 3
        2

        OC
        Do you seriously think that the UNP was campaigning seriously in 2020?
        Its attitude was passive compared with his sole rival Sajith P, who spent more effort on humiliating RW than on fighting the SLPP.
        I doubt his delivering on expectations and hopes raised by him, but am truly worried about his delivering on the IMF agenda.

        • 6
          2

          SJ,
          “Its attitude was passive compared with his sole rival Sajith P, who spent more effort on humiliating RW”
          I don’t think RW expected any chance of winning, especially with all his big guns falling in behind Sajith, and therefore conserved his energy.
          The SJB seems in two (or four ) minds regarding the IMF. Champika vows to resist CEB being split up. SP waffles about not selling national assets. Harsha and Eran silent, Fonseka even more “patriotic ” than Weerawansa.

          • 9
            0

            old codger

            Harsha is all for disposing all loss making state owned enterprises.
            You are right, Fonseka and many others have no cause to fight therefore they go back to their empty rhetoric. Fonseka is a public racist for some reason he is bit muted. I suspect his grandchildren would have told him off.

            There are behind the scene plots being hatched by Wimal/Udaya conspirators. The gang is trying to keep the Tamil representation from Constitutional Commission. Dinesh could be behind this plot. SJ maybe happy.

            I saw a long piece of Dayan’s typing in Lanka Guardian. I haven’t read it yet, but I saw something about TNA’s positions on Constitutional drafting. The usual ….. SJ may appreciate what Dayan is on about.

            Have you ever visited China?
            Any plans for the future?
            If you are planning, take SJ with you please on one-way ticket.
            I am sure many will contribute to buy air ticket.

            • 5
              2

              “Have you ever been to China?
              Any plans for the future?
              If you plan, take SJ with you on a one-way ticket.
              I am sure many people will contribute to buy air tickets.”

              Why is any sino-srlanka fan not yett involved in debt restructuring if he is close to China-Sri Lanka deals? Isn’t that the biggest problem we face today????????
              I am sure . If anyone would intervene there, he or she would deserve more credit than Dr. Safi for recent donations to the health department, the idiotic domineering Sri Lanka.

              China’s Exim Bank owns the largest share of the country’s massive annual debt on high-interest loans enjoyed by MEDAMULANA beasts and their hedgemonists.

              Rumor has it that over 80 percent was wasted during their reign. Auditor General and all other accountants, where have you been?

              My colleagues in Europe have questioned me several times, pointing at the fleet of luxurious vehicles in colombo and at the same time wondering how a small fraction of people bless it. Wealth? Medamulana beast (pariah of the nation- Mahinda Rajapakshe) should be able to respond…. right ?

  • 0
    3

    That much must be admitted even by his worst critics

    To continue his presidentcy he has to rest the country time been by speedy loaning from country for the time been and taxing later. A dinner sponsored by a debt spoils the next day.

    RW wants make the people think/reflect the countries ok un election

    Through Phohutuwa that blamed RW about the scam through it people knows to cover up all scams RW keep his power has to reset the country to avoid his scam treasure to erupt and the clerical tasks that made it to happen

  • 27
    13

    The low mentality of Sri Lankans can be seen from the 1000 lawyers who had a lavish party ( when the country is burning, people are losing jobs, children have no food…) to celebrate 50 years lawyer career of Ranil , the unelected president ! The guy never acted as a lawyer. He used his uncle JR to build a political career for himself.

    The whole country should know the names of the PCs who attended this shameful farce at a 5 star hotel. How much was a ticket ? Who paid for all this ? Did any government institution sponsor the event ?

    Apparently the cunning lawyer who bullies witnesses/other lawyers hiding under his black coat spoke at this dinner after drinks and said that Ranil always put the institution of parliament first and himself second .

    Fellow must have been drunk !

    Parliament is the house of representatives . Who does Ranil represent ?

    Did ranil support the referendum of his Uncle in 1992 extending the life of parliament without elections ?

    Putting himself second ! ! I saw him at the queens funeral without a mandate from our people to represent them anywhere . As a parliamentarian how many foreign trips has this man made ( 50 years ) All 5-7 stars. what did the country gain?

    Tell us about one original law he has thought of-all are cut and paste jobs from other countries !

    We are a nation so full of utter nonsense

    • 9
      8

      Desperate Deepthi Silva

      “The low mentality of Sri Lankans can be seen from the 1000 lawyers who had a lavish party ( when the country is burning, people are losing jobs, children have no food…)”

      Can you vouch that in about between 8 and 10 months there won’t be any new born babies given that the country is burning, people are losing jobs, children have no food?

      “We are a nation so full of utter nonsense”

      Isn’t it why the Rajapaksa clan represented you lot, desperate to represent you, ….. Even Namal baby is so desperate he invites himself (gate crash) to meetings discussions where his presence is not welcome.

      Do you know how many times Mahinda travelled while he was holding top job?

      • 15
        5

        For guys like you (Codger, leela, SJ) , to criticize Ranil is to support MR !

        Prabakaran also thought like that , to support LTTE, you must hate the Sinhalese or if you criticize the LTTE, you must be a spy or traitor. Many Tamil MPs and others were killed by him.

        To support Ranil is also kind of self assuring for guys like you , while the Sinhala /Tamil/Muslim communities in this country have failed to create anything good , mediocre mind set, imitating the British, only producing low quality products, corrupt, inefficient – there is this one man Ranil who is a visionary, great doer, man of thought and action, painfully honest, no personal ambitions, all night and all day crying for his country ,a real god !!

        If there is one such man , then OC ( master of English), Vedda( very deep thinker) SJ ( Sharp logic )types cannot be too far behind ! ! Sri Lanka has talent !

        Yes the fool MR also travelled overseas , accompanied by a few thousands ! Ranil travels alone. Those junkets and luxuries should only be enjoyed by a old Royalist with the right blood group in his veins !

        • 2
          7

          Deepthi the dishonest,
          “Sinhala /Tamil/Muslim communities in this country have failed to create anything good ,”
          Would you like to explain exactly how much of economic output each of these communities produces? Don’t run away, OK?

          • 8
            5

            Ah, South Asian Shakespeare (Codger) ! Do you have the facts and figures of their respective economic output. I think compared to world averages they all fail.

            How about integrity issue, the proportion of Sri Lankans convicted in Developed countries for fraud ? Have you got the facts , taking into account the disproportionate division of the races.
            For example the small Jew race produce very many Nobel winners. Similarly, small number-many fraudsters.

            As for SL I can only think of one silly old man as a gold medallist-OC-who declares his English as very good. This is why one time the government had to bring in standardisation-lack of integrity.Support their guy regardless of evidence( OC and crowd also support Ranil on this basis) Use this stupid scarecrow to undermine the country long term.

            We have to also look at the thousands of visa applications lodged in European embassies by these chaps. A story of honesty and integrity !!!

            As to Rajapaksa being my god, do I sound like a person who is a believer ? No pottu on my head !

            • 1
              4

              Deepthi the ignorant
              “Do you have the facts and figures of their respective economic output.”
              Did you even know that 4% of the population produce 30% of export income? Yes, they wear pottus on their heads.
              I am not here to do your research for you, the way I taught you English. Do it yourself.

        • 6
          2

          DS/Lester,
          .
          What happened to your powerful voice to your Rajapakse gods? Does it disappear now? How about all of a sudden? Although I did not support anyone, I always stood up against DA Rajapaksa criminals by studying the profiles of my elders. It was in those days that the grandmothers said that the cattle rustlers (cattle thieves) would one day destroy this country.
          My elders and parents are not alive, however everything they prophesied is 200% correct today. What hasn’t been ruined by MARA teams today?
          However, the elephant is in the room, and no one is talking about it? That is srilanken slavery. They would never start stoning at the criminals…. for some unexplainable reasons.. ?????
          .
          tbc

          • 4
            2

            cont.
            Can those dogs be ever free in a law-abiding state? The red carpet is accepted when the person who was detained without being given a chance to leave the country returns after 3 months, but without good reason?
            .
            Seeing that you are blessed with better systems to continue your life in Europe or any other developed world, regardless of your job titles, but still continuing to support thugs and their rabble rousing politics angers me. This is something I cannot bear. And I didn’t hit anyone in CT. So please avoid misinterpreting it. In a country where the main stream media spreads blatant lies as BREAKIN news, what can’t go wrong? Not the economic crisis, but the worst crisis is the one in which Sri Lanka is tied to its media mafia.

            • 6
              2

              leela ” Can those dogs…” Is this how you write your research papers ?

              have you seen gatherings of LTTE supporters in countries like Canada, Australia ?

              ‘gathering of beautiful looking people?”

              • 0
                0

                DS,
                Why should I worry about their meetings? Is it not their right to continue fighting for their cause? I see it wherever I go. Including the US, Canada, UK, Northern Europe and everywhere else. Germany and Switzerland. But I am only against terrorism. . In the late 80’s I also stood against the JVP, they were insurgents without rhythm.
                Ignorant politicians, despite their so-called “war victories”, have not achieved much towards a sustainable solution to the country’s long-standing ethnic problem. What have we achieved for them since 2009? 12 years passed. … ?
                . How ashamed should we be as a majority? I know you guys are crazy but after watching the video I hope the problem will be solved soon. We are all srialnkens, we should treat everyone with the same spoon.

        • 7
          4

          Desperte deepthi silva

          “For guys like you (Codger, leela, SJ) , to criticize Ranil is to support MR !”

          Aren’t you doing the opposite, to criticize Rajapaksas is to support Ranil?

          “Prabakaran also thought like that , to support LTTE, you must hate the Sinhalese or if you criticize the LTTE, you must be a spy or traitor.”

          This is nothing new, “You are either with us, or against us”. During the war and after we heard a lot of such comments.

          ” Vedda( very deep thinker) “
          -.
          Thanks to you, I am learning to read from your ….

        • 2
          2

          “For guys like you (Codger, leela, SJ) , to criticize Ranil is to support MR ! “
          People like these are very rare and unique species.
          Have they agreed on much except that you make some not very intelligent utterances.

          • 3
            0

            SJ,
            “Have they agreed on much except that you make some not very intelligent utterances.”
            Wouldn’t that sentence require some intelligence to figure out?

            • 0
              0

              OC
              Judging by the 2-2 thumb score, I share your doubt about intelligent life on these pages.

  • 16
    1

    While lending institutions insist on structural changes that also reflect public will from elected policy-makers, the cabal of rogues, redundant politicians and sycophants hold sway over a rapidly sinking ship. The rats will however, not drown, whereas the cattle will. The only common focus of the educated youth and generally the adult future generation should be to wipe the slate clean and gain back the power of the people, whose sovereignty has been severely eroded by the vermin in power. That will help restore some confidence of the external lending institutions and ratings agencies. There is no time to lose, in ordinary people rising up and reclaiming their country from the parasites.

    • 1
      0

      Good Metaphor.

      Yet so far nothing has shaken the stronghold of the Rats to their comforts. That is why I earnestly believe no use of reformist & public writers any more spending time with the Political Rats. It is the Cattle matter for the Island, not the rats. Then why waste the time with Evil Emperors and Rowdy Royals? Even if it is a missed spear, Valluvar says, the one thrown to an elephant counts many times more than the arrow that killed a rabbit, without missing. (Remember the Sihala Buddhist Dudugemune fed everyone with rice with milk, crackers firing, but because of that war Sinhalese, Tamils, no one has rice to eat even with Polsambol?) Half a victory is achieved when the right object is selected. So, reformists and writers should turn their attention on correcting the Cattle, not the Rats, which are a worthless class. Politicians come and go. But the masses, the country’s essence, remains. Further if one politician is corrected, it need not get another one corrected. That is what Buddha, Jesus, Confucius, Valluvar…. all attempted.

    • 3
      1

      We may ask ourselves “Are we Buddha or Gandhi or Nelson or Lincoln…….” It does not matter if we are puny or big. Educated people United & honestly taking the shepherd stick and walking forward will make all the cattle follow them. Many great men have pointed out keeping quiet, without opposing loudly is much worse damage than the perpetrators do. Crooks will activists by their creative stories. Activists should not answer those criticisms, but their yardstick should be self-criticism with honesty.

      • 0
        0

        “…taking the shepherd stick and walking forward will make all the cattle follow them.”
        Not sheep?

        • 1
          0

          It is well known donkeys do pull across, but “Sheep do follow” is nincompoop’s knowledge and requires no special mention. “Crooks will accuse activists with their creative stories. Activists should not answer those criticisms “ Well, I had to take one exemption for me on my words, because it appears that the missing word misdirected the message away from intended recipients. My exemption is to re-target it to the proper devils.

  • 7
    0

    Rise in the popularity does not guarantee stability.

    • 5
      6

      “Rise in the popularity does not guarantee stability”

      Then tell us how MODI did it.

      Irrespective of the extent of the damage, those barbaric men who are full of greed rather than love of nation will do anything to gain popularity because they really know that only then they can get more votes. This is valid ” pseudo democracies “of our nature, while european models truly do something enough for its people.
      -#
      Why did Mlechcha Rajapakse not see that buying “artists” and “media” will destroy this nation?
      Malini Fonseka, Ravindra Randeniya, Jackson Anthony and the like were bought by Mahinda Rajapaksa – MR virus killed this nation more than what COVID 19 ever did. Jackson is paying the price today, and everyone else is staying in nude mode.
      The other artists such as, Sudath Thilakasiri and Sepal Amarasinghe (YOUTUBE CHANNEL HOLDERS) both succeeded proving their OPPORTUNISTIC nature as they noticed ship is sinking.

  • 10
    0

    The author asserts that there is an improvement in the popularity of RW with ease of pressure put on the people. While it is reasonable to assume so, it has not been put to test. Interviews conducted in Britain regarding Rishi Sunak resulted in responses such as “he is the man for the job” but not necessarily to the liking of the interviewee. So let us wait for the conduct of at least an opinion poll in this regard. Clearly no Governor of the Central Bank likes the downgrade of a rating. While others were outspoken about the downgrade Nandalal took saner counsel to be in line with “Silence is golden” and that does not mean that he agrees with anything and everything the rating agencies say. Clearly, the Chinese are tightening the economic screws on Sri Lanka, giving no chance for an IMF assistance and thereby to increase the dependency of Colombo to Beijing. We, in SL have failed to dangle the carrot on the super-powers in marketing our position in the Indian Ocean. Selling assets and having special zones to foster black money are some of the standard solutions. Sri Lanka must learn the art of bargaining.

  • 7
    1

    President RW. has literally caught a Tiger by its Tail……..

    Dr.Ameer Ali writes………..
    Without taking strong action against Tax dodgers,Corrupt officials and ROGUE POLITICIANS,some of whom are inside the Parliament SUPPORTING RWs Presidency Fiscal consolidation would remain an unrealistic objective.
    So, RW has to walk the tight rope……
    But,he could move as a first step to identify the Electricity/ Water Bill dodgers in Parliament and collect the revenue running into millions …………
    But again why has he shifted the Goal Posts? By Feb.04th 2023 he has promised to resolve the National Question!?

  • 3
    1

    I suspect President RW. has referred to The Prince by Machiavelli and is rewriting same!

  • 6
    2

    RW may gain less popularity perhaps if some of his critics desist from puerile personal attacks on him

  • 10
    0

    I recently came across a Tik Tok clip on the car collection of a Hotelier in Negombo which would make any car enthusiast drool. I believe his car collection & hotel was subject to an arson attack at the same time the Aragalaya members were beaten up by, apparently, MR’s goons. Therefore, these cars probably were somehow saved & insurance seems to have paid for the damages promptly so that the hotel opening with a banquet hall, claiming to be the best in the region, was scheduled for 1st Dec. The car collection comprised of a customised Merc SUV, Chevy Camaro, Ferrari 488, Mini Cooper & a Rolls Ghost, all costing more than £1m at a guess, depending on the level of customisation & the fact that the hotel was refurbished in double quick time, with or without insurance pay off, indicates extraordinary wealth. I understand this billionaire hotelier started with a small restaurant in Katunayaka not so long ago, so for him to acquire this massive wealth is worthy of a case study for students of Business studies.
    Cont.

  • 10
    0

    Cont.
    When the larger population of the country is at poverty level, such opulence indicates bad taste but I assume his contribution to state coffers in the form of taxation justifies his flaunting of wealth. I am sure, for a billionaire like this, coughing up a bit more on taxes would have the country up & running quickly, just like his recovery, without burdening the poor too much. Over to you, Inland Revenue Dept.

    • 4
      6

      Raj,
      .
      “When the larger population of the country is at poverty level, such opulence indicates bad taste but I assume his contribution to state coffers in the form of taxation justifies his flaunting of wealth”

      Therefore, walking to a supermarket today has become a big threat. You may question whether it is in Somalia or Tahiti. If you look like you came from abroad, you will be beaten right there. It’s about an incident that recently happened to a friend of mine while she was on her way to a “Kiel supermarket”: a driver stole her gold necklace and handbag full of valuables. This is the reality of today’s situation near Colombo.

  • 17
    2

    Ranil is very good at imprisoning and torturing student protesters and well-meaning sanctified priests. But what a coward he is in catching the high-level tax evaders and out-right money-launderers who have stolen the money of the hardworking-suffering-Lankan-Masses. What cowardice to pretend that he has a big economic plan in place with correct connections to these high-level crooks, when actually he himself is crossing fingers through it all and merely living as a presidential show-piece. How ridiculous he looks sitting at all these high-level talks, talking bull-shit. For once and for all, we pray that the one and only person with ability to catch these crooks, i.e. Anura, will do the violent take-over, capture and traitorize them all , and give the Motherland the saving grace she needs.

    • 9
      0

      rtf, Leader has lot of experience in Vataland torturing but never experienced the joy of helping suffering lankan citizens as they never elected him…hence the vengeance. He will not catch these crooks who exalt him and he gives a bogus plan for 2050 when he will not be on this earth but burning somewhere.

    • 10
      1

      Ramona,

      You have more balls than most of the puerile sissy girlie-men here ……… I love you! ………It was love at first sight!! :))

      • 7
        0

        Good heavens!
        .
        The uses that Colombo Telegraph is being put to.
        .
        What an amazingly direct declaration by nimal. I await Ramona’s response with the keenness of an aroused voyeur.

        • 8
          0

          That was a sucker-punch waiting just for you ……. knew you would take voyeurism to another level!

          Told you …… I know what people are going to think …… even before they know it themselves!!

  • 11
    2

    Dr. Ameer Ali: On reading the opening paragraph and ending it: “…..there is no doubt that the popularity of the man in helm, President Ranil Wickramasinghe (RW) is on the “RISE” (my emphasis) for the time being and among “ORDINARY FOLKS” ( emphasized by me).

    You are in a faraway land. Please come to Sri Lanka and walk around and start talking to that “Ordinary Falks” you refer to. I am doubly sure you will hear more references to his deceased mother and uncle (in vulgar language) as they are more accustomed to condemning a man whom they dislike most.

    I am sure you would have come to this conclusion on hearing “Basil R’s” statement. He said: “We have to thank Ranil W for making it feasible for us to come out in public”. Don’t trust this “JOKER” Basil. He has forgotten why MR’s campaign meetings titled “Alumathin Negitimu” (Rise from the Ashes) have to be abandoned after holding only three of those.

    I abandoned reading it further after I read the first paragraph. However, I will give little time to soften my perception of the man RW and come back later.

  • 5
    0

    WIJEDASA RAJAPUKA Recently talked about lot of big business people do not pay TAX PROPERLY AND DO UNDERHAND METHOD TO PAY LESS TAX.HOW ABOUT HIS FRIEND AND PARTNER IN CRIME AVANGUARD OWNER NISSANKA SENATHIPATHY DOES HE PAY TAX CORRECTLY?

    • 4
      0

      paragon, You talk about a group of untouchables to be left alone, or else he will be unseated faster than he thinks, by hook or by lawless crook.

  • 11
    1

    Ameer Ali churning articles with no substance day after day like a production machine
    Take a break please

    Fitch’s credit rating, for that matter all reputed credit agencies Rating, is a reflection of the Politicians handling of Sri Lanka’s economy,political crisis etc

    Gota as President and Mahinda as PM had a very high local Sri Lankan rating …..but they crashed the economy.

    Ranil is doing the same

    There is no need for Fitch to tell Sri Lanka…. the writing was on the wall for last 70 years

    Things will get even worse before it gets better

    correction

    Things will get even worse no respite in sight

    • 6
      3

      “…churning articles with no substance day after day”
      It is not just him.
      There is a drought for constructive thinking. People seem stuck in some mud, you know which.
      *
      “There is no need for Fitch to tell Sri Lanka…. the writing was on the wall for last 70 years”.
      Was it?
      When did the country begin to get into massive debts?

  • 8
    0

    nimal fernando

    “Who are we trying to fool Native? Yes, who are we trying to fool? ……. EE?”

    We are are trying to fool ourselves. We have done it in the past 74 years and happy to continue for another, ….. years.

    “Everyone will gladly drink their poison”

    How did Gota manage to feed poison to 6.9 million?

  • 4
    1

    Protest (Aragalaya) these days give a meaning worse than Demelo or even Kottiya to Appe Aanduwa. Saliya Peris PC & Prof. Arjuna Parakirama arranged a meeting that was canceled by The Evil’s Administration. Isn’t is saying that Evil have come to power using terrorism, not peaceful protest? Are these senior social activists staying at the University 8 years beyond their time like Wasantha Muthalige? The Evil is saying that the Protesters are given whatever they asked for, so protesting any more is unpatriotic. Is having a meeting in a hall, paying due rent, a protest on the public road? Sinhalese have fallen into a deep hole lower than Marianna trench. Soon the people whom the Aanduwa does not like are going to washroom will be an antigovernment act, under the Langkang act of ABC. S123 of BC 2500. We Tamils have heard this for 74 years: “We the Sinhala Buddhists gave 5o:5o to GPP but then SJV started to ask for Federalism, so what can we do but not bring in Emergency 58?”

    The reality is Without the protesters winning there will be no freedom to Sinhalese; without winning the War/Genocide Crime case, Tamils will have any rights

  • 2
    0

    M, The protestors are the manifested reality today. All these other crooked robbers and corrupt leaders who think they have won will ultimately face their karmic lives when it is too late unless they renew their minds and turn around and be transformed out of their evil habits and work towards the good of citizens who voted for them for that purpose, and not for repression. They cannot lie and promise goods from the moon and restoration with car factories. Electric cars without electricity in the land is a big joke and brainlessness, demons fully occupying the skulls.

  • 0
    3

    Native,
    “why didn’t weeping widow and her merry men chose the economic path/policies…”
    You must consider the world environment at the time. There was the powerful Communist bloc, which appeared prosperous because the economic cracks had not yet appeared (or nobody knew because there was no YouTube). Our neighbour India was well into its self-reliance and socialism. The US was busily killing Vietnamese, Indonesians, etc. The Australians were into Apartheid. The US did give us free wheat flour. The Commies gave us lots of factories (which we didn’t know were outdated). So, the logical thing was to follow an apparently successful model, which wouldn’t offend the Indians too.
    JR changed the model too soon, and you know what happened. He should have waited till the Indians had had enough of socialism.

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