Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Kotte Nagavihara and a vocal monk in the movement calling for an abolishing of the Executive Presidency has expressed his willingness to stand as a presidential candidate.
Madluwawe Sobita Nayaka Threo
‘Yes I am ready to stand as a Single-Issue (SI) presidential candidate, but if a former Chief Justice or a former President is interested, no problem, I am happy to step aside. I will serve for six months only within which time I will abolish the Executive Presidency and institute a parliamentary system by constitutional methods. The roots of bribery, corruption, nepotism and bad governance lie in Executive Presidency,” Sobitha Thero told the Sunday Thinakural newspaper in a wide ranging interview.
Sobitha Thero has headed the movement that gathered a group of experts to draft a new constitutional framework that replaces the presidential system and sets up certain safeguards to prevent the abuse of power by the political leadership including the limiting of the cabinet of ministers and anti-graft measures. The monk is seen to be leading a broad opposition alliance of political parties, civil society groups, trade unions and professional organisations against the undemocratic, corrupt and authoritarian policies of the Rajapaksa Administration.
He told the Tamil language newspaper that there was no need to speak of overthrowing the Government. “Today the Government is confused. These kinds of internal conflicts will naturally lead to collapse. Today, the Prime Minister is against the President. We believe the minds of the people are changing,” Sobitha Thero said.
Dropping another bombshell about the ongoing international challenges against Sri Lanka with momentum building for another resolution in Geneva, Sobitha Thero inserted a major sanity check into the national discourse about human rights and a war crimes inquiry.
“Sri Lanka is a part of the international community, we have to abide by international norms, and if there is a call for an international investigation, I have no problem in agreeing. If we have done nothing wrong we can go before an international investigation and vindicate ourselves” he acknowledged.
Fathima Fukushima / February 7, 2014
Keep trusting saffron robed politicians, fools.
You know what you get.
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Rambler / February 7, 2014
Madluwawe Sobita Nayaka Thero
Venerable Sir:
You said all the right things that would help create a much needed consensus in the country in order to overhaul the highly dysfunctional political system and restore democracy. But then by uttering the last two sentences you have pulled the plug on that noble goal and have effectively sealed your prospects.
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Rambler
“You said all the right things that would help create a much needed consensus in the country in order to overhaul the highly dysfunctional political system and restore democracy.”
I am stunned.
You too want democracy restored, dear I ask for whom?
“But then by uttering the last two sentences you have pulled the plug on that noble goal and have effectively sealed your prospects.”
Why has his uttering sealed his prospects?
He wants truth to be out however much it hurts you. He wants to face the investigation fair and square. Do you have any problem accepting truth?
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Rambler / February 7, 2014
Native Vedda
Remove your blinkers, loosen your Amude
Shed your preconceptions, learn to be nice to people,
and get a life.
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Rambler
“learn to be nice to people”
I agree and I try my best to be nice to people.
As it happens quite often I get the urge to offend morons. If I have offended you, it means you deserve it. On the other hand if I haven’t offended you I am sorry.
Why has his uttering sealed his prospects?
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Rambler / February 7, 2014
Native Vedda
I told you “shed your preconceptions” and look around. Then you’ll see what I’m talking about. Sri Lankans do not want domination by anybody – whether local or foreign. Is it too much for you to understand?
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Native Vedda / February 8, 2014
Rambler
“Sri Lankans do not want domination by anybody – whether local or foreign”
Are you being serious?
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Gambler / February 10, 2014
THIS RAMBLIG IS ADMITTING GUILT
BUT THATS NOT FAIR, ONLY SOME ARE GUILTY & THE VAST MAJORITY OF US DO NOT WANT TO CARRY A CRIMINAL’S BURDEN
GOOD HAS TO OVERCOME EVIL.
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Native Vedda / February 10, 2014
Gambler
Are you betting on good to triumph over evil?
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bo / February 8, 2014
Hamuduruwo has never been in front of a court, kangaroo or non-kangaroo, international or indigenous, if he had he would not have written the last sentence.Courts do not dish out justice, but only the law written by those, whose interests it serves. Don’t expect a fair judgment by those paid by US imperialists and lackeys, directly or indirectly. Romantic sense of justice does not exist. If things were done fairly, natural justice will prevail. Meanwhile I agree with the current policy of telling the foreigners go and dish out justice to those they have been pillaging in mid east, afghanistan, japan, central and south america, africa etc etc etc,all over the world really.
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peace advocate / February 7, 2014
Do you trust Chhevaradhaaree Gnasara only?
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Tamil from the north / February 7, 2014
@fathsitma, anything is better than a pig like you. At least this monk speaks the truth and feels the pain of all lankans, excluding pigs (aka: fatshitma)
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Dude / February 7, 2014
Hats off to Sobitha Thero who is one of the few decent Buddhist monks in Paradise Lost!
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shehan / February 7, 2014
He’s the good type. The type you and your king worship are the cancer!
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Dinuk / February 7, 2014
I’d certainly vote Sobith hamuduruwa for president for 6 months to abolish the Executive Presidency and root out the corrupt Mahinda Rajapaksa family and cronies which have spread like a virus though all institutions in Sri Lanka and destroyed them. Today democracy is indeed a SHELL GAME..
Most institutions in Sri Lanka have unqualified, uneducated and CORRUPT JARAPASSA family members and conies running them.
All governance institutions have been hollowed out and there is only the facade of democracy… So even though in principle am opposed to Buddhist monks in politics and parliament I would support Sobitha thero as a one-off single issue President for DRASTIC REFORM of Lanka’s rotten POLITICAL CULTURE, especially because the opposition UNP is also unfit to change the political culture.
Just look at the UNP clown, so-called Mayor of Colombo Muzamill who is in the CORRUPT family business of politics – He is Ranil Wickramasinghe’s man and now his wife also want a post… now he will join Jarapassa’s political family business for more perks..
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John / February 7, 2014
Sobhitha thero says clearly ,even the buddhist monks are fed up of this mad regime, unless they put bad governance right they will have to pack their bags & go home.
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Ninja / February 7, 2014
You seem to be the fucked up fool. This is not about a saffron robe. Learn to look a little further.
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Mervyn Kunu Saliva / February 7, 2014
Bloody [Edited out] you donnt know about sobitha thero.
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whywhy / February 8, 2014
Express way to Nirvana will be the promise.That’s what all
devout Buddhist striving for.Suddenly the Devotees will
start “Bana” to the clergy.Fukushima,on your mark!get set!
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Fathima Fukushima / February 7, 2014
Chandrika also promised to abolish the executive presidency in six months in 1994!!
What happened?
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
You know that she did not have parliamentary mandate to do so ?
Now the guy with all mandate – not even uttering a single word about that yet ? What is your opinion about the current situation ? He seems to use 2/3 mandate only to get passed his kind of AMDs and budgets only… ??????
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sarojini / February 7, 2014
Traitor sobitha get lost!
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gamini / February 7, 2014
Sarojini, a great Sinhala Buddhist Patriot an MR supporter, showing her true colours.
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
I now only read the title of the topic – yes, if the regime is confindent why repeat no to war crime investigations ? All right thinking, rule of law and order, dignitiy of like, should rally round to support great rev Thero to save the nation. This is need of this critical juncture of lanken politics. War is over, just becase MR regime and its term – it is done means not that the incumbent is the capable person to bring perment peace to the nation. Looking at the manner how he has been since 2009, people must think of a change.
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Sengodan. M / February 7, 2014
But this man is different. One can easily judge him from his words. He is not basically a politician and therefore will have no political ambitions. I believe that he is a TRUE patriot!
Sengodan. M
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Sengodan. M
For Sinhala/Buddhists anyone who challenges the established political order become a traitor.
Mostly Sinhala/Buddhists who have been fed on a staple diet of fear, paranoia,invasion of Chola Pandyas Maha, international conspiracy,minority supremacy, …….. put up with all sorts of tyranny believing that they are being protected and would be safe if they supported the strong man.
May be another do gooder giving it a try, while welcoming it I do not expect any positive outcome from his contribution as you would have noticed the political undercurrent has been much stronger than Ven Thero.
For example, machination by the established players representing the Sinhala/Buddhists, bureaucracy, armed forces, Petite bourgeoisie, cronies, ……. will continue to undermine anyone who are pro people.
Are we on the path to Talibanisation of Sinhala/Buddhist polity, given its past parochial history?
Will its religious police have powers to enter your bedroom to check whether you comply with their prescribed forms love making?
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peace advocate / February 7, 2014
Even your leader MR said so!
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shehan / February 7, 2014
Ah CBK! MR makes us wish she was in power. That’s how pathetic MR’s administration is.
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whywhy / February 8, 2014
This time it will be from a professional and you are quite
familiar with their Bana and Pirith aren’t you?
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Pasel / February 7, 2014
Why di he gave the interview to a Tamil paper?
Sobitha Thero told the Sunday Thinakural newspaper in a wide ranging interview
Sinhala media won’t carry or , he doesn’t want the message goes to the Majority
Or fool the Tamils
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J.Muthu / February 7, 2014
Sorry we tamils know all Sinhala modayas, Sinhala monks worst ruthless animals. This monk fool and idiot, if he is genuine should tell Sinhala veerayas first. complete idiot…
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ela kolla / February 7, 2014
Muthu,you are [Edited out]
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Kutti Machan / February 8, 2014
J. MUTHU is a STRAWMAN SOCKPUPPET planted by the BBS to bring bad name to the TAMILS.
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peace advocate / February 7, 2014
Is it a sin to talk to Tamils? Thero has given many interviews to Sinhala papers.
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Upali Wijewardene / February 7, 2014
Oh Man, the current government has a stranglehold on the English and Sinhala media. They wouldn’t print amy of this. With a Tamil newspaper publishing it, everyone has got interested in what Ven. Sobitha is saying. Its time, the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim population stands behind this robed monk to save Sri Lanka
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Happy / February 7, 2014
Seriously? I hope this is a joke
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Udugampola / February 7, 2014
NOW THERE WILL BE CHARACTER ASSASSINATIONS (MUD-SLINGING) AGAINST HIM.
Mohotti Don Davithge Mahendra Percyval Rajapakse & Co is to demote this HERO to ZERO.
The heard of cattle (dumb) & jackals who think they are lions (racists) are ready to obey.
White-Van Rajapakse is turned-on.
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Ben Hurling / February 7, 2014
Not only corrupt Rajapassa clan, LTTE monkeys are scared of Ven. Sobitha’s candidature as well.
Rajapassa scared of losing his vote base.
LTTE monekys are worried Sri Lanka will sort out her problems in a dignified way, after all.
Cheers!
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Rajash / February 7, 2014
Ben
when did LTTE …Liberation Tigers ….
become Monkeys…
you mean Tigers behaving like monkeys
perhpas mimicking might work?
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J.Muthu / February 7, 2014
Jaffna library burner we tamils don’t give a damn any Sinhala monkeys…this monk typical Sinhala mokkan…
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peace advocate / February 7, 2014
Do not be an idiot Muthu. Devastation happened or done by every one.In the past all of us made mistakes. Now it is time to do a good turn.
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
peace advocate
“Devastation happened or done by every one”
I hate to agree with you however
I would like you to present a schedule of destruction, chronologically listed, and name the suspects responsible for each of the destruction.
Is it too much to ask for?
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Ben Hurling / February 7, 2014
J. Muthu,
Your language is not Presidential.
Ven. Sobitha Thero stepped in coz’ you let us down by not behaving in a potenatially Presidential manner.
I had high hopes one day you would take up the challenge.
Cheers!
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The Professional / February 8, 2014
So can one have an insight into aggression?
So can one have an insight into aggression?
– not the remembrance or implication of it, which means constant examination,
coming to a conclusion and acting according to that conclusion – that is not insight.
But if one has an immediate insight into it,
then one has broken the whole pattern of aggression.
So what will you do about the way you are living: the everlasting going to meetings,
discussions with philosophers, and the latest psychologists?
One never says. ” Look, I am like this, let me find out why.
Why does one have wounds, psychological bruises?
Why does someone live with them?”
k – Krishnamurti, J. Krishnamurti, Krishnamurti Foundation Trust, Bulletin 40
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Ben Hurling
“LTTE monekys are worried Sri Lanka will sort out her problems in a dignified way, after all.”
Who are these LTTE monkeys. Could you name them.
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Anpu / February 7, 2014
NV,
He would not name them.
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Anpu
“He would not name them.”
Why not, are those monkey tigers sharing a bed with Gota?
Ben Hurling and others need enemies for their own existence and sustenance. If they run out of enemies they create new ones, in fact purpose of their life is to create more enemies so that they can be busy sorting out their enemies, real or perceived.
Most of the time shadow boxing comes handy.
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Ben Hurling / February 7, 2014
Anpu & Native,
I know you guys have good intentions.
Yet, to believe Sri Lanka does not have enemies is a bit naive.
Who propelled the bloody mayhem on Sri Lankan soil for 30 years?
Where did the funding come from? Who ran the high-tech propaganda? Who did the very effective lobbying of Western governments?
You think they gave up all that after May 2009?
Cheers!
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Ben Hurling
“Yet, to believe Sri Lanka does not have enemies is a bit naive.”
All enemies are your babies. Not ours.
“Who propelled the bloody mayhem on Sri Lankan soil for 30 years?”
A good question, please educate us.
” Who ran the high-tech propaganda?”
Hi tech??????
I am sure you would have bought a second hand car, without four wheels, steering wheel, engine, chassis, seats, …… from them.
If you believe their propaganda worked you would believe anything. By the way FYI Elvis is alive, seen eating large burger outside Mc Donalds, VP was seen training SJV Chelva and Amir, Subhase Chandra Bose is being detained in a Russian gulag,…. .
“Who did the very effective lobbying of Western governments?”
Yes they did a very effective campaign lobbying Western Governments and ended up killing their own people and losing their dear leader.
“You think they gave up all that after May 2009?”
Without their noise MR wouldn’t have even pretended to appoint a commission of inquiry into war crimes. Most of those campaign are genuinely concerned about war crimes because most of them have lost their innocent relatives in the war.
If you are a honest broker you should join the genuine campaigners who in someways are helping to push the Sri Lankan state to democratize itself and restore accountability. You should thank them.
My elders tell me that as long as India does not relocate, Sri Lanka is safe from foreign invasion. If anything Hindians will invade this island to protect the people from “Foreign” invasion, like the one in 1987.
For Hindians, Sri Lanka is a Sinhala state of India.
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Anpu / February 9, 2014
Ben,
“Who propelled the bloody mayhem on Sri Lankan soil for 30 years?”
Both UNP & SLFP and their supporters.
“…The LTTE did not come into being or grow into a world-class terror outfit in a vacuum. Without the Sinhala Only, the Tiger may have remained unborn. Without the Black July, the Tiger may not have grown exponentially. If the B-C Pact and the D-C Pact did not miscarry (thanks to the midwifery of Sinhala extremism), the LTTE, even if it was born, would have remained a fringe group.” http://www.thesundayleader.lk/2011/10/30/oppressed-north-lawless-south/
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Palmsquirrell / February 7, 2014
Are you talking about the diaspora? If so , what he says about international investigation is what the diaspora are calling for.
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Ben Hurling / February 7, 2014
Palmsquirrell,
There is a difference.
Ven. Sobitha Thero seems to be man of his word. His candidature if realized will be game changer.
He is genuine in his endeavours. However naive that may sound in the context of our utterly corrupt, cunning, back stabbing political culture.
He does not fear transparency or international scrutiny. Coz’ he has nothing to hide. Wants Jusitce for all Sri Lankans.
However, motives of LTTE die-ass-pora is totally different. They want International investigations to justify creation of utopic Ealam. They have no interest in Justice.
They care about an extremely perverted version of ethno-Tamil nationalism.
Die-ass-pora wants to achieve through international investigations what 30 years of bloody LTTE mayhem could not achieve. Racist Ealam.
Sri Lanka must not walk into that cunning trap.
Cheers!
/
Robert.R / February 7, 2014
I honestly think he won’t win but that’s my opinion and you are entitled to yours.
Now lets see what he wants to do -basically get rid of the EP and go back to a parliamentary system pre 1972.
Yes, I agree things really went downhill after 1972 but lets not rush to forget that many pogroms including the infamous 1958 one took place under such a system.
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Angry Buddhist / February 7, 2014
So, are the anti-Buddhists wanting a regime change now going to support a monk because they desperately want a regime change?
Is a noose around your own neck better than a gun that does not kill the enemy? Muslims will have something to say to the Sobhita pushers.
Interesting times.
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Sengodan. M / February 7, 2014
It is not simply a regime. A drastic change of the present constitution, where the fault lies is an urgent need!
Sengodan. M
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chandra / February 7, 2014
Fathima (aka Lorenzo)
Comment on LW
Lorenzo Says:
February 6th, 2014 at 12:56 pm
Sobitha Thero is the new Sarath Gonzeka.
lol!
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Burt / February 7, 2014
I have seen anti Muslims and anti Christians but I am still to see anti Buddhists. Based on BBS many minorities (religious and race) might want to avoid but this could be the reason the monk gave the first interview to a Tamils reporter.
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Maduluwawe Sobhitha
Is it the first step in the direction of establishing a theocracy, through back door?
And how can we get rid of you?
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R. Varathan / February 7, 2014
You are generally quick on the up-take. But here, may be you wrote on an off day.
Ven. Sobita Thero comes closest to those whose names have surfaced so far to get rid of the Mafia. A theocratic State, in the real sense, is not possible with India next door – even with a nexus between the oversized army and the Buddhist priesthood. Besides,
the Sinhala priesthood is far too divided along caste and other lines
for a single priest to remain in power for too long. You know all too well there are at least 5 Mahanayakas now – although officially there used to be just two in Kandy.
R. Varathan
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Ajith / February 7, 2014
We should welcome a change, no matter whether he is a Monk or Priest. The country need change and rule of law.All these days we have experienced politicians using Religion as a weapon to create troubles and blood in this beautiful nation. Why not people of Sri Lanka should elect a true Monk who can bring true peace and love to this Nation. Do we need Buddhist principles to rule the country or Do we need Buddhist Fundamentalist rule of Jungle?
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aratai / February 7, 2014
.
Who knows? MaRa might become a monk too!!
:-)
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
aratai
What is MR going to in a power vacuum?
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noel-jones / February 7, 2014
Rev.Sobitha, YOU trying to show that you are a politically neutral monk, but you are an ardent supporter of UNP. Maybe you wants to get non-buddhist Ranil back to the helm. You unaware or intentionally hiding the fact that what MR done so far to the Buddhism and the Sinhalese, because you have a personnel grudge against MR. If a monk put his trust on a whisky sodden and corrupted woman like Chandrika, his head must be examined. And I told that when you began to support SF at the last Presindetial election.
Rev.Sobitha either you,Chandrika,Shiranee,SF or any other political leader contest in a Presidential election, it is impossible to defeat MR. Don’t even think about it. You can see it on 29th March. At least after that please make up your mind.
As a monk you must focus your attention to the threats against Buddha Sasana and the Sinhalese in common. If you think you can find solutions to that threats[Buddha sasana and the Sinhalese] under a Prime Minister ship, again you must examine your head. Because a Prime Minister cannot take bold decisions on any of that kind of threats in a Parliament. Even today sometimes President has to delay some actions he need to take to solve that problems. If you protest and fight against these threats we are behind you. Otherwise pretty soon you tarnish your image as a respectable monk.
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
noel-jones
“As a monk you must focus your attention to the threats against Buddha Sasana and the Sinhalese in common.”
You and Sinhala/Buddhists are the existing threat to both.
Get rid of Sinhala/Buddhism, Buddha’s teaching will be safe.
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noel-jones / February 7, 2014
Native Vedda, If your clan in Dambana embrace Buddhism and forget about loin cloth and or the tree leaves around the waist, don’t blame Sinhala Buddhists.
I’m asking from you, Why not you?
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whywhy / February 8, 2014
noel-jones
Who said embracing Buddhism can lead to getting rid of
that all important three-in-one loin cloth?What do you
think all Buddhist paddy farmers,coconut tree climbers
and many others wrap around at work?It’s changing in
some places but still old is gold in many places.
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Anpu / February 7, 2014
“MR done so far to the Buddhism ” What has he done ?
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Leon / February 7, 2014
He has to be careful or else he would be white vanned.The Rajapakses will resort to anything to stay in power as otherwise they will be dragged to
The Hague.
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Safa / February 7, 2014
Ven Sobhitha does not intend to embrace any benefits or trappings of Presidiency. He will be a single issue President only to abolish the Executive Presidiency and restore sanity to the Political System of this country. If anyone can do it, he can. It is up to the opposition parties to unite behind a single leader to carry out this task whether it be the Ven Sobhitha or any other.
It is strange to see the people who support facist monks like Gandasara and Akmeemana now falling over each other to prevent and discourage Ven Sobhitha. They usually say that the clergy has always come forward to protect this country but now they are against this move? Such double standards expose their racist intent.
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Amarasiri / February 7, 2014
Dear Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thero,
“The roots of bribery, corruption, nepotism and bad governance lie in Executive Presidency,”
This is one of the roots.
There are many other roots, but pulling this root out can be a start towards an egalitarian society.
/
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 7, 2014
However good Sobitha Thero may be as a person and a monk and the promise he holds, it will be a mistake to bring him into the political arena as a monk-politician. Expediency in terms of the urgent need to have a change in government and governance, are certain to introduce theocracy as an undesirable feature into our political life. Once the flood gates are opened, the long term outcome could take us to times like the Middle Ages in Europe, where corrupt , brutal and ignorant Popes ruled the roost in the name of religion. We are already suffering from a surfeit of religion, language and communal identity related issues in our public life used by politicians to promote their self interest. It will be unwise to bring an overt religious element into our already eroded political structure even if the personage is a Buddha. Let us not introduce a Trojan Horse of sorts into our political life, however expedient it may be at this point in time.
Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s!
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
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Ajith / February 7, 2014
It is absolutely ridiculous to talk about replacing this corrupted government with another corrupted government. The fundamental issue is rule of law, recognition of diversity and devolution of power. Who are the alternatives?
Is it UNP, JVP? They are all from the same pot. There is no difference in their political culture. Sri Lanka politics has gone to the extreme level of destruction and we need a good person rather than those nasty politicians.
Sobitha clearly stated he will be there only for six months until he remove the executive powers of the President. Sobitha is not a politician. He understands the social issues of the people. Though he is Buddhist, he assured that the religion will not play any role in politics.
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shankar / February 7, 2014
Dr.RN,it is his democratic right to contest.We should respect democratic values and not bar anyone from contesting just because they are a man of cloth.If they want to contest they have every right to contest,that is a fundamental right in any democracy.If we start to cull the candidates where will it end,we can say so and so should not contest because they have a aquiline nose like sobitha.
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 8, 2014
Shanker,
Yes, he has the right as a citizen, but would it be ‘ Right’ for him to do so as a Buddhist monk? Prince Siddhatha renounced the kingship, to become a sanyasi and then a Buddha, should a Buddhist monk who has renounced worldliness, embrace it to deliver us from MR , his government and its governance? The long term implications for this country have to given deep and serious thought.
Dr.RN
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shankar / February 8, 2014
Dr.RN,you are forgetting history.In this country the bhuddhist monks have always played a prominent role in the decisions made by kings.The kings used to consult them on all important matters.These are not the traditional monks who go into a monastery and never heard of again.This country has a unique history and monks have played a major role for 2000 years to safeguard bhuddhism.If not for them here too bhuddhism would have disappeared like in the rest of south asia except bhutan.Also the monks have been in the forefront to spreading it to other parts of asia like burma,cambodia and thailand and they in turn spread it into china,japan etc.
So after studying the history of this country i’am not surprised that monks start taking a passionate interest in governance matters especially when they see the country going downhill.
I don’t know how sobitha became a monk ,but IMHO the reason for srilankan bhuddhist monks having a bad reputation is because of child ordination.You have to become a monk willingly like siddhartha gautama did.Children being ordained is the same as VP conscripting children.You saw their heart was not in this war and they all surrendered.Your heart must be in it to become a monk.
I too am getting ready little by little to one day become a monk before i meet my maker.In this one short life we have what is there to lose by exiting the material world and going into the spiritual one and then exiting this world altogether as the king and beggar both have to end up the same corpse 100% guaranteed.
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 8, 2014
Shanker,
Being advisors and consultants is different from being the King!
What I am concerned is not about Ven. Sobitha Tbero , but the precident his election would set. The Shah of Iran was bad, but the Ayatulla rule that followed , was worse. Archbishop Makarios’s rule in Cyprus, paved the way for its partitioned status today! History teaches me to be vary of theocracy, in whatever form it makes its entry.
Dr.RN
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shankar / February 9, 2014
Dr.RN,Sobitha has said he will be holding office only for 6 months.He is going to do what laymen/woman like chandrika and mahinda promised to do but played out the people and did not.
Wherein in the worlds history has someone said that they will only be in office for 6 months if elected.Do you think anyone else in the future is going to do that?Is this the precedent that you are worried about,a precedent that will never be followed by anyone else?If he is setting a precedent for a 6 moth stint in office to make a vital change,that is good precedent to set in my opinion,because if the head of state makes a promise and breaks it someone can put up their hands and ask for 6 months to teach the SOB or bitch a lesson to keep their promises to the people.
The main thing to focus on here is the 6 month period.That changes the complexion of any argument that may be valid under the normal circumstances.This 6 months is the important bit in the debate.
/
shankar / February 9, 2014
Dr.RN,Sobitha has said he will be holding office only for 6 months.He is going to do what laymen/woman like chandrika and mahinda promised to do but played out the people and did not.
Wherein in the worlds history has someone said that they will only be in office for 6 months if elected.Do you think anyone else in the future is going to do that?Is this the precedent that you are worried about,a precedent that will never be followed by anyone else?If he is setting a precedent for a 6 moth stint in office to make a vital change,that is good precedent to set in my opinion,because if the head of state makes a promise and breaks it someone can put up their hands and ask for 6 months to teach the SOB or bitch a lesson to keep their promises to the people.
The main thing to focus on here is the 6 month period.That changes the complexion of any argument that may be valid under the normal circumstances.This 6 months is the important bit in the debate.
/
shankar / February 9, 2014
“Being advisors and consultants is different from being the King!”
In the context of bhuddhism which asks monks to forsake the world does it matter whether they are knee deep or waist deep in mud.As advisors they have been knee deep for two thousand years.Now they are waist deep because the monarchy has been changed by the parliamentary system and the boss is the people in theory at least(the masses,the yakkos,the asses who the king would not have even even in his wildest dreams thought of consulting for vital decisions)and probably the monks feel now when their advise falls on deaf ears they have to directly go to the mass/ass/yakkos/boss.
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sirimal / February 8, 2014
At the beginning, I also thought that a religious leader should not be allowed to contest. But in the current context, who would have the capacity to do it better than the Rev. Sobitha Thero. Majority of the population still respect buddhist views of good edcuated senior buddhist monks. As far as my info are concerned about Rev. Sobitha thero, he has no such kind of intentions to grab power or stay in power. His mediation would be only to change the system from the curren to the former one. We (right thinking ones) are all in the same opinion what we need right at this juncture is parliamentary democracy. So long EP is there, no progress would be the case towards democratic values.
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Amarasiri / February 18, 2014
Dr. Rajasinham,
People should put their Trust in Ven. Sobitha Thera, who follows the enlightened Buddhas’s teaching than any of the corrupt and nepotistic politicians the country since independence.
In Sri Lankan history, the Monks have come forward to solve the crisis.
Ven.Sobhita Hamuduruwo, Jayawewa, is more qualified than any other.
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mike / February 7, 2014
Late S.W.R.D.BANDARANAYAKA, WAS KILLED BY Somarama thero,with the help of Budda Rakkitha thero then head of the Kelaniya Rajamahawihara along with Miss Wimala Wijewardena.They wanted to transform this country and took such a drastic action to kill the Prime Minister.I hope people are not foolish to forget the past although the new generation does not no the past history of this country.Clergy must refrain from politics and engage in preaching of Lord Buddha’s principles and not to seek the helm of the country.Let others face the challenge.Serve thy religion,and save thy religion,not reign the country.
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
If the opposition and other parties cant DO THE DUE in terms of removal of MR, there is no other alternative than voting for any serious candidate like Rev. Sobitha thero who would want to contest only for the purpose of abolish EP and restore democratic rule.
JVPrs killed thousands of youth in the country in 89. But since they have joined parliamentary elections, they have become the third force of lanken politics. AKD the newly elected JVP leader is very much democratic compared to executionist -MR. So, just because once one monk with insanity killed the former PM, one cant say that they cant support the country in this crtical juncture of its politics.So long MR would be there, there will be no respect for the law and order, dignity of life and for justice for anyone.
Please also check thes out yourself the following links
a)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trzB4JXDjxk
b) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvaWfoXr6Ow
c)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rW50NqUJho
d)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrrdfzFlIkA
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gamini / February 7, 2014
MR, Gota, Nivard, De Facto CJ and their cronies must be having lose motions already.
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shankar / February 9, 2014
gamini, burglars will enter the kotte rajamahara.Sobitha and another monk hear some noises.They confront the burglars.Sobitha’s throat is cut in the melee and the robbers take off with some valuables in the vihara.
The police next day manage to trace the robbers and a shootout occurs where the 4 bastards are killed.They are army deserters who have been drug peddling and under surveilance by the police for some time,unable to be touched because of some powerful political connections.
Good job done by our police force,but unfortunately could not prevent the throat cutting of of poor sobitha.
When mahinda was informed he was shocked and asked belletada vadune.
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Awanka / February 7, 2014
Given the current disarray of the opposition parties,
Sobitha Thera is the best candidate to contest against the president Rajapaksa. President is still a popular figure, a charismatic leader. however his inaction to corruption and lack of interest in maintaining rule of law and good governance will drag our country towards a destructive pathway.
I believe that if Sobitha Thera is elected he will definitely abolish Executive Presidency and establish rule of law in the country. He is the only person now capable of making such a change and ensure good governance. CBK lacks credibility.
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Fernando / February 7, 2014
RP CHANDRICA MR are all who are suseptible to enjoy wordly pleasures.
JRJ was not that type he was Buddhist practiced meditation and percepts achieved inner peace Nelson Mandela too practiced meditation while he was in the prison and achived inner peace and forgave his enemies and gave up his post after serving first term.
Therfore any one achieves inner peace will be able to abolish EP
We can trust Sobitha Thera for this
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Dr Arun Vincent / February 7, 2014
Not only the Presidency, all MPs, Ministers are also should be monks.
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 7, 2014
Also throw in a handful of Poosaries;Catholic priests and nuns; Priests from the other established and new evangelical churches; and Mullahs, to give a semblance of democracy in the theocracy that will result!
Dr.RN
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Native Vedda / February 7, 2014
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
“to give a semblance of democracy in the theocracy that will result!”
If theocracy is the alternative to democracy, make theocracy democratic.
Why have you forgotten to include Shaman, Kapurale and Dugganawa as part of representative theocracy?
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 8, 2014
Native Vedda,
Please note that I used the words a’ semblance of democracy’.
Dr.RN
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
You seem to have taken it wrong. Rev. Sobitha thero stresses that he would contest to abolish EP only. After that being abolished, the parliament will hold elections and elect the leader of the nation that restore democracy in the country.
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 8, 2014
Sirimavo,
Please read the questions I have raised in the related thread by Prof . Kumar David in CT.
Dr. RN
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sirimal / February 8, 2014
Btw, I am not SRIMAVO :(
Anyway, I have added my view to yours somewhere else on the other thread. Thanks.
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Dr.Rajasingham Narendran / February 9, 2014
Sirimal,
Sorry. My computer has a mind of its own and sometimes changes words. I am also negligent in not noticing it, before posting.
Dr.RN
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Bruz / February 7, 2014
Do Not Panic. Nothing will happen. Sobitha Hamuthuruwo is just having fun poking at MR. That’s all. But poor Thinakural’s young journalist’s days may be numbered !. Get out of Silly Lanka soon man. See what happened to Mel Gunasekera, the on line business editor ? Jayasurian , why are you so stupid man ?
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Bruz / February 7, 2014
Whether Sobitha is a great monk or a punk, he is sure having fun. Do not get upset, he’s old and feeble but uttering his honest opinion. Take it or leave it. MR & co will not take it seriously for sure ! We should encourage a BBS or a JHU pure Buddhist monk(ey) to contest or challenge the incumbent prez.
Let CBK have a shot or two of Whisky and go to sleep -:)
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
As it was the case with Baratha murder investigation, almost everything is well planned in terms of that Mel´s murder. Those who are close to Duminda should pay more attention to check his head injuries. Those lanken medical professionals that publicly made statments using doctored medical source data – should be brought before the courts. In general each and every medical professionals are entitled to an approbation. Laws related to approbation may have been changed by incumbent president in between.
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
what happened to you in between ?
I found your sentiments different until shortly :(
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Patriot / February 7, 2014
People have to be practical. The common candidate need to get 50% or more against an existing president who will go all out to win the elections. The common candidate should be a member of the majority i.e. a Sinhalese who can get as much as possible Sinhala votes. That person should not be racist Sinhalese. The only human being who can beat Mahinda Rajapaksa is Ven Maduluwawe Sobhitha Thera. Tamils, Muslims and the Christians do not need to worry because Sobhitha Thera is a person who understands everyone’s problems well. Intelligent academics like Professor Kumar David is overwhelmed by this idea. If people fail to grab this opportunity, Sri Lankans will have to live a miserable life for another 30-40 years having a Rajapaksa as the Head of state.
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Ninja / February 7, 2014
My vote is for you venerable sir. Time we sort out this mess. Lots of educated professionals have been hoping this would happen
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Ravi Perera / February 7, 2014
Dear Dr.Rajasingham Narendran,
As usual you have come up with a very sensible comment. I am in full agreement with you.
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Nihal / February 7, 2014
Only a Sinhala Buddhist who can command the votes of the majority community can win this race. In that respect Ven. Sobitha is the best choice at this time provided he is backed by the UNP, JVP, DP and SLMC. I am sure the majority voters in these parties would favour him. Since he is a respected thero who is determined to change the corrupt political system that is plaguing the country, we can trust his word. Tamils and Muslims too should trust him and extend their support for the sake of getting rid of the Jarapassas who have done enormous damage to the country’s fabric of good governance. It is only when the majority community is supported by the Tamils and Muslims in the North & East we can bring about a real change with national consensus. So let us give it a try.
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MrRetort / February 7, 2014
We are quite happy to hear that Rev. Sobitha is willing to go for Presidential Election with the intention of scraping the system. I am so sure UNP, JVP, General Fonseka, including ethnic minorities as well as religious minorities would be with you apart from CBK and CJ Dr Bandaranaike.
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Park / February 7, 2014
It is not only the promise to abolish the Presidency, he also should promise to make all religions equal. The special status given to Buddhism in the constitution also should be reworded so that all religions should have equal status, similarly all races should have equal status.
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
Safeguarding all rights incl. reglious will be possible after EP is no longer there. As one of the writers made it clear, few weeks ago, UPFTA is the highly dangerous coalition (political party cocktail consittued by all poisonous radical parties) generated to destroy the nation. So long UPFTA would prevail in the country, nothing like toward peace will become a reality. This is the reason why I respect Rev. Sobitha´s first and foremost intention -abolition of EP. He is not at all power greedy figure. I studied closely what he has been preaching in his “damma sessions”, all violent and virulent BBS, JHU or other sects could become civilized if they would learn to PRACTISE this senior thero´s damma.
Rev. Sobitha respect all religions equally. He has not been a radical buddhist monk.
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Basil Fernando / February 7, 2014
DR Arun
Politics is for all not only for monks as JRJ said once with saints you cant operte political parties. It is a inclusive domain. One of Ministers was described as exhaustpipe of the UNP
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vishvajith / February 7, 2014
What a fine journey, our Holy Land has just begun.
Oh Velupillai, our Sinhala creation, if we didn’t hammer your people so many times, ’83 the last, you will not be in our history books. With you gone, we handed the nation to your cousin Mahendra. You dead, is turning our to be more dangerous, than you being alive.
Gosh, how we screwed up, since independence, we still don’t speak of solving our long standing domestic problem of our Tamil Speaking Brothers and Sisters.
We only want to send Mahendra n his friends home and then have another Patriot to screw us. The journey continues. Sigh!
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sirimal / February 7, 2014
Who is Mahendra BTW ?
If a person is hardly hit by a deadly cancer, what you would need to do is to seek for healing. So in the same manner, the cancer that is affected to the nation today is MR and his virulent politics. His politics that lack all democratic values. SO right thinking ones would easily get it that removal of this cancer is a must before making further efforts in the line of achieving permanent peace. Only a healthy person can be an architect of permanent peace. Rev. Thero´s mediation would only be paving the way for democracy – that is it.
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