28 March, 2024

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Special Statement Delivered By President Ranil Wickremesinghe: Full Text

Since the day I took charge of our nation’s economy, I wanted to ensure you that Sri Lanka’s actual economic situation was made clear and transparent. Over the recent months, I have provided regular updates on Sri Lanka’s economic state, outlined strategies to overcome our challenges, and emphasized the role each of us must play for the betterment of our nation.

Ranil Wickremesinghe

We have endured numerous hardships due to a struggling economy, but we are slowly making progress towards achieving stability. Our weakened and crippled economy from the crisis is gradually regaining its footing.

This achievement is a result of the correct policies and practices my government has implemented. It is also a testament to our collective effort as a nation in rising above the many challenges and hardships that came our way.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all Sri Lankans for persevering through these hardships for the sake of our motherland. If we continue on this path for just a little longer, I am confident we will be able to establish a stable economy free from the difficulties we endured together as a nation.

Sri Lanka is now ready to embark upon a journey of collective growth and prosperity.

In what manner should we proceed on this journey? Which practices should we adopt to ensure our progress?

Today, it is my honour to share with you a roadmap detailing the steps we intend to pursue to forge a brighter and prosperous future for all Sri Lankans.

Throughout my tenure as President, I have consistently emphasized the need for comprehensive economic and social reforms in Sri Lanka. In the 2023 Budget, I highlighted several reforms that aim to restructure and modernize the nation. It is crucial that we remain committed to these reforms to build a better future for Sri Lanka.

I want to remind you that some decisions we make may not always be popular. However, it is only by pursuing policies that are right and difficult can we uplift our country once again. I can assure you that if we remain committed to reform, we can create a nation where future generations can live freely and happily.

Unfortunately, some groups involved in traditional politics are actively working to hinder our economic revival. They are spreading false information about our reform agenda and intentionally misleading the public with claims that we are selling off the country.

Throughout history, these groups have continuously resorted to fear-mongering tactics, falsely asserting that our actions are driven by a desire to sell out our nation. They have deceived many Sri Lankans in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, and even the 1980s, instilling an irrational fear of the country being sold away. From then until now, these groups have disrupted real progress for economic reform by perpetuating this slogan of “selling the country”.

I am confident that you will no longer be deceived by such slogans. It is imperative for all of us to work diligently and to totally devote ourselves to the upliftment of our country. Our objective is to transform into a fully developed nation on the global stage by 2048. If we fail to align our economy with the modern world and the latest trends in technology, we will regress. The consequence of failure is the country becoming an economic colony. Let us forge ahead and shape our economy in a way that enables us to compete on the global stage. Let us carry out the necessary economic reforms for the greater good of our nation.

Through these economic reforms, our aim is to rectify misguided policies, programs, and projects. Rebuilding a bankrupt nation cannot be achieved by using traditional methods. We must adopt a fresh approach and embark on a new journey of transformation.

What are the outcomes of these economic reforms?

The cost of living for all Sri Lankans will decrease, and our standards of living will rise. Is that a mistake? Is it tantamount to selling our country? These reforms generate new opportunities for businesses to grow and thrive, ranging from small-scale enterprises to large-scale ventures. Is that a mistake? Is it a country being sold?

We are working to provide necessary relief and essential facilities to the poor and the most vulnerable segments of our society. Is that a mistake? Is it a betrayal of our country?

The burden of covering losses incurred by state owned enterprises will no longer placed on the people. Is that a mistake? Does it suggest a country’s sale?

A culture of accountability and transparency is being fostered. Is that a mistake? Does that mean the country is being sold? We are working to make Sri Lanka one of the world’s fastest-growing nations. Is that a mistake? Does that imply that the country is for sale?

The implementation of our economic reforms serves only to achieve sustainable development and prosperity for our country. Through these reforms, we will accelerate Sri Lanka’s modernization, expand our market, and encourage greater contributions from the international community toward our development.

We acknowledge that this journey is not an easy one, and we anticipate numerous challenges along the way. However, we are determined to overcome these obstacles. Our government is committed to always acting in the best interest of our country.

We will not allow anyone to drag our motherland back to where we were a year ago. Today, some individuals seem to have forgotten the hardships endured by Sri Lankans during that time. Our economy contracted by 8.7%, our foreign exchange reserves hit rock bottom, and we experienced one of the highest inflation rates in the world. Foreign loans went unpaid, pushing the country into bankruptcy. Food scarcity became a pressing issue, with people waiting in queues for days to obtain oil and gas. Agriculture suffered due to a lack of fertilizer, resulting in crop losses and helpless farmers. Businesses collapsed, leading to job losses and income sources drying up. Hospitals faced shortages of medication, schools had to close, and power cuts lasting 10-12 hours became commonplace. The country was in disarray, with people struggling to survive.

Unable to bear these hardships any longer, the people became restless and began to struggle. In the face of these tremendous challenges, I assumed the responsibility of managing the country’s economy as the Prime Minister. In such a difficult backdrop, I possessed only one source of strength: my unwavering belief and determination to safely guide our motherland across this arduous journey.

When we first took steps to stabilize the country, we implemented stringent financial controls. We recognized that our only way out of this crisis was to seek support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Thus, we initiated negotiations with them, which involved multiple rounds of lengthy discussions. Eventually, the IMF agreed to provide us with an Extended Credit Facility. Additionally, we embarked on programs to secure loan assistance from other financial institutions such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank.

During this challenging period, our neighbour India played a significant role in supporting us. Bangladesh and Japan also offered their support. Several countries, including China, India, Japan, and members of the Paris Club, agreed to restructure our debt, of which we are immensely grateful for on behalf of the Sri Lankan people. These collective efforts and collaborations are part of our commitment to achieving sustainable development and success for our country.

In our efforts to stabilize the country, we implemented strict financial controls, leading to significant cost savings. Additionally, our foreign workers have made valuable contributions to our nation-building endeavours. In the first quarter of this year, the remittances sent by foreign workers increased by 80.6% compared to 2022. Furthermore, our new tax policies have resulted in an additional income of Rs. 210 billion in the first quarter of 2023. These achievements highlight the positive impact of our measures on our economy.

Today, we are reaping the rewards of our hard work and dedication. Inflation, which had skyrocketed to 70 percent, has now decreased to 25.2 percent, lightening the burden of daily life for all of us. The entire population of Sri Lanka is experiencing a sense of relief given the improvements we made to the economy.

Now, let me explain our vision for the future and how we plan to move forward. We have built our roadmap on four key pillars that will shape our path ahead.

The 1st Pillar – Fiscal and Financial Reforms

We have successfully reached an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding fiscal and financial reforms, which received approval from Parliament. We have initiated reforms in tax policies, revenue administration, and public financial management, and we will continue to pursue the successful delivery of these efforts. Our aim is to implement necessary reforms that will ensure long-term sustainability of public debt and the stability of our economy. Ultimately, we want to rebuild confidence in the Sri Lankan market.

In our pursuit of economic stability, we have implemented various cost reduction and containment measures since May 2022. We are taking further steps to minimize unnecessary expenses, emphasizing to government officials the need for prudent spending. Our approach includes:

1. Halting unnecessary expenditure,
2. Streamlining government activities to reduce costs,
3. Designing cost-effective government operations, and
4. Leveraging automation and digitalization to reduce costs while delivering quality services.

The 2nd Pillar – Investment Drive

Promoting investments play a crucial role in boosting a country’s economy. We also recognize the significance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in our journey towards economic growth. Our goal is to transform Sri Lanka into an export-oriented economy that is globally recognized, following the successful models of countries like South Korea and Singapore.

Furthermore, we aim to prioritize modern and sustainable efforts such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, and digitization. We can draw inspiration from the Andhra region of India, which has excelled in developing these areas. Such modern and sustainable initiatives are vital for the complete transformation of Sri Lanka’s economy.

Over the next few months, we will make a special invitation to the private sector to submit their own business proposals that align with our vision of modernization and sustainability. We will ensure transparency and openness by publicizing this call for proposals through mass media in a formal manner. We believe that a collaborative partnership between the public and private sectors will drive the engine to accelerate Sri Lanka’s economic growth and revival.

The selection of proposals is based on four key criteria:

1. Size of private investment,
2. Job creation,
3. Export contribution, and
4. Economic contribution.

To ensure the effective implementation of these business proposals, we will introduce a new system called the Lab methodology.

Under the Lab approach, we will bring together Government Ministers, government officials, subject matter experts, and key representatives from the private sector to collaboratively engage in detailed discussions over a period of six weeks. The aim is to collaboratively resolve any roadblocks hindering the roll-out of investments and projects by listening carefully to the private sector. During these discussions, comprehensive implementation plans will be developed, and the necessary facilities to support the implementation of these projects will be organized. Government stakeholders involved in the Labs will dedicate their full-time efforts to ensure the successful execution of these projects.

As President, I, along with the Cabinet Ministers, will actively participate in this event to demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring success of the Lab process.

Through the Labs, we aim to achieve three main objectives. They are to:

1. Accelerate the economic recovery through approved business proposals and projects
2. Create new employment opportunities, and to
3. Streamline the government machinery to facilitate the implementation of future projects by removing obstacles through transparent procedures.

In order to foster a conducive environment for investment, we also need to reform Sri Lanka’s trade practices, which have been structured under strict protectionist policies. It is time to remove these barriers that have discouraged investors and to promote a more open and welcoming approach.

3rd Pillar – Social Protection and Governance

We will also apply the Lab methodology to address social safety net concerns. We will engage various government ministries, departments, agencies, civil society representatives, and subject matter experts in the integration process of social security measures.

Over the years, the people of Sri Lanka have expressed three main demands: combating corruption, protecting the poor and vulnerable sections of society, and ensuring transparency in government actions and practices. We are actively working to meet these demands.

Through the Lab methodology, we will assess the adequacy of social security measures for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged sections of society. Our goal is to provide them with the necessary support and relief they require.

A special task force is being established to combat corruption across all sectors, including regulation, procurement, and political corruption. We are committed to implementing anti-corruption practices through a government mechanism that emphasizes accountability via modern techniques such as digitization.

4th Pillar – State Owned Enterprises Transformation

There are currently 430 public enterprises operating in 33 sectors of the economy. These enterprises employ 6% of the Sri Lankan population. However, many of these enterprises have garnered monopolistic positions in the market, hindering private investment. Price fixing, inefficient management, and poor entrepreneurship have weakened public finances, turning these institutions into national burdens that are dependent on the taxpayer.

Notably, entities like the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, Ceylon Electricity Board, and Sri Lankan Air Lines have incurred significant operating losses, equivalent to 1.6% of the country’s GDP in 2021. It is unjust to burden the 22 million people of Sri Lanka with this debt. We must urgently undertake necessary reforms in our SOEs to ensure the turnaround and success of these enterprises.

We have already initiated the preparation of a restructuring plan for public enterprises. Additionally, we expect the chief officers of these enterprises to be committed to improving their performances. If they fail to meet the annual targets assigned to them, we will not hesitate to replace them with more suitable candidates.

Public Engagement

Public participation is crucial to our Labs. All outcomes from the lab discussion, including plans, analyses, and conclusions during the six-weeks will be shared with the public in a physical forum called the “Open Day”. This platform will allow the public to express their feedback to the lab outcomes and the nation’s reform efforts, of which their contributions will serve to further refine the implementation process.

I am actively taking steps to regularly present information about our reform and reorganization programs to the public. I believe that the President should make it an annual ritual to engage with the people and provide updates on our nation’s progress.

We recognize the importance of incorporating the views of all segments of society in implementing our roadmap towards growth and prosperity. After hearing from the public during the “Open Day”, we will transparently share the progress of the Labs along with the activities of the special task forces related to the economy through digital media. This will allow the public to observe the implementation of the plans in practice, and also be able to identify and resolve obstacles along the journey.

In the last quarter of this year, we will then work to unveil the national transformation plan to the public.

Following extensive efforts, we anticipate revealing the National Reorganization Plan during the final quarter of this year. This plan aims to offer the public the chance to witness the advancement of plan implementation and practices via digital media. Furthermore, it encompasses a systematic approach to shed light on challenges and barriers encountered during implementation. Consequently, it becomes feasible to swiftly identify and resolve obstacles and issues.

To coordinate the implementation of these plans, we are establishing a Presidential Delivery Bureau (PDB) comprising of high-ranking officials from both the public and private sectors. They will collaborate with the line ministries to ensure effective coordination throughout the implementation phase.

Building the future

These reforms are designed to benefit the entire population and foster the development of the entire country. We aim to enhance the living conditions of all Sri Lankans, including you. Our program is not exclusive to any particular segment but targets the entire nation. By doing so, we can enhance Sri Lanka’s international competitiveness in exports and create new opportunities for labour participation amongst the youth, leading to a fully stabilized economy within the next five years.

Ultimately, our vision is to become a fully developed country by 2048, with the responsibility for continued progress passed on to the next generation. We are preparing our youth for this role, and I have full confidence that they will lead our motherland towards this objective.

This work methodology is a collective effort to build the future for all of us and to ensure a better tomorrow for future generations to come.

Therefore, I invite all Sri Lankans to join me in this journey to create our new and shared future our beautiful country. (President’s Media Division)

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Latest comments

  • 11
    0

    nimal fernando

    Let me cast the first stone, not in any particular direction or towards at a particular person.
    I did read the entire text.
    It is like sitting in an economic development lecture and reading revision notes.
    Boring yet necessary.

    I wonder how he is planning to get rid of the functionaries who failed the state, the country and the people in the first place? The Sri Lankan Administrative Service (SLAS) has a revolving door. They are never punished nor sacked. They talk patriotism, Sinhala/Buddhism in order to hide their own corrupt practices, mistakes, inefficiencies,…… If Ranil really wants to reform the state he should start with SLAS.

    Then of course he is planning to prevent corruption at the lower level. Recently I was told when a young Muslim mother went to obtain Birth Certificate for her newly born child the clerk demanded Rs10,000 and commented that he could not deal with Muslims because they have too many children, hence too much work.

    Do you know how Ranil is going to deal with those functionaries and their lazy corrupt racist clerks?

    Please wait for more of the same later.

    • 4
      1

      NF: The last question you asked: ” Do you know how Ranil to deal with…….?

      The Answer: By the use of “LAB METHODOLOGY”.

      • 5
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        Simon

        “The Answer: By the use of “LAB METHODOLOGY”.

        According to urbandictionary.com
        LAB means A Group of no-hopers that assume they are the best
        Also means Arrogant, Unwanted, Annoying & Disruptive.

        I think it is just about right.

      • 5
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        SIMON THE DIEHARD JVP SUPPORTER@
        .
        May I know exactly what you really meant by ” Labmethodology” in politicial sense ?

        Does it mean to dismember RANIL to the manner saudi journalist who was murdered in Istanbul SAUDI embassy 5 years ago ?
        If it is the case, how much anger should work on MEDAMULANA dogs ?
        .
        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ44spUo8Uk

        If that is the case, the kind of tactics were not overlooked by the extra judicials killings performed by JVPrs in 1989-1992. Remember ? Not once, I have lost a dozen or more of my real good mates – none of them were party sympathisers, but just UNIVERSITY undergraduate students.

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccJSmKhAB0Y

        My friends# friend was dismembered and flesh and bones were fed to the parents and relatives of the murdered …. Can you imagine guys ? That was no anywhere else, in a southern village of SRILANKA horrified by then JVPrs.

        • 1
          4

          This comment was removed by a moderator because it didn’t abide by our Comment policy. The key to maintaining the website as an inviting space is to focus on intelligent discussion of topics.

          For more detail see our Comment policy https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/comments-policy-2

          • 4
            0

            Dear Logical Thinkers,
            According to my understanding, JVP is not yet mature enough to take over the governance of this country. They need more training to deal with different types of political groups. No matter what anyone says or does, the people of Sri Lanka respect different opinions in politics. It is up to them to bear their opinions, however JVP should be able to stand with them as future leaders.

            The way JVP ex-Wimal Weerawansa misled the country by being close to political crooks like Mahinda Rajapaksa, AKD too can’t take us an inch forward.
            For those interested in balanced thoughts, I have added links below to educate more about our forgotten past.

            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPZjgZZsWPU
            .
            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQ15GE6Erxs

        • 2
          1

          Dear LM: First, thank you for complimenting me for supporting “JVP/NPP”. I have my own reasons for extending that support. (1) I don’t keep on hammering (calling him and his family “BP” (sons of bitches) or any other terms used in an uncivilized manner) at “Rajapakses” and single him and his regime for all that we have suffered and suffering presently. I want a Government that would bring ALL who have plundered the wealth of this country and its people to “Account” and make them “Responsible” and “RECOUPE” that wealth back to the “Treasury”. I have at least a HOPE on JVP/NPP to do that.

          (2) I am more than convinced that a Government by Ranil W will never ever do that for me. This Ranil W to say the least is a “PROXY” of Rajapakses (you know it well I believe) and the rest of the looters. So “BASHING” Rajapakses in whatever the “Filth” is of no use under Ranil W, but it is only a “Road Show” of a high degree of “HYPOCRISY”, But unfortunately, still such “Hypocrites” receive all the applause and praise. I am patient enough to see that ill-conceived “Praise” would fade as time passes.

          There is nothing more to add to the meaning given to “Lab Methodology” than what Native V has given. Thank you Native V.

    • 3
      9

      Dear Native Vedda,
      .
      I admire the stoic sense of duty
      that forced you to read through all the “revision notes”. I knew that I was not up to it and I listened to it all on Rupavahini.
      .
      I searched the web for it a few hours ago, but couldn’t find it. I’m sure that it would have been on live on the Internet as well. Here it now is:
      .
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqiR2w5kyYU

      .
      I really am concerned about the number of languages that one has to deal with today (no doubt there were more 75 years ago – “little languages” keep disappearing) because of increasing interaction among peoples. And each of us individuals has access to a staggering amount of material owing to the Internet. I wish some young person would study the subject. Idiot me!
      .
      Too many studies!
      .
      https://wit-ie.libguides.com/c.php?g=648995&p=4551538
      .
      Manageable introduction. This next is downloadable for a pundit!
      .
      https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40685-018-0069-z
      .
      Giving up the impossible task after scrolling down:
      .
      https://hbr.org/2009/09/death-by-information-overload
      .
      tbc

      • 5
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        Dear LOGICAL thinkers,
        .
        What else can an interim president of an officially “bankrupt nation” say today while struggling with austerity measures and going through all the hard steps? He should enlighten the public with the truths. He has been doing that whatever the obstacles he has to tackle with today.
        .
        RW President is the most hated person by SIMON and Bandarawella clowns and JVP supporters today.
        Ironically, the Bandarawella clown praises a student who has stagnated in a Sri Lankan university for 13 long years (if my info are right, he is still in his basic degree course). A student can usually complete all university education including post-doctoral degrees within 13 years (4 years of basic undergraduate course, 1 year of MSc/MA, 3-4 years of PhD and the rest with post-doctoral research work). However, the ex-convener of ANTHARAYA made a HERO from the media shows.THIS IS VERY COMMON IN OUR HELL CREATED BY MEDAMULANA DOGS.
        He is not alone, but if my information is true neither will his ex or successor. How many students in this country are not given the chance , unable to choose even for university education? Not even 1 in 20 would get the chance to get elected to a local universiity. Why on earth this SELF-PROCLAIMED pundit from Bandarawella has no hearts to see it ?

        Why are funds that should be better invested in poor students ruining these delinquent minded youths? Logical thinkers, please think again.

        tbc

        • 6
          1

          cont.
          2

          some of them are totally offended by addressing him as ” Honourable Ranil”? How primitive these men turned out to be ? Even a criminal is addressed with “Sir” in Europe. Besides, if MEDAMULANA GOD FATHER OF ALL HIGH CRIMES can be addressed as ” Mahinda Mahaththaya by Tilvin de SILVA” what is wrong with incumbent president be addressed in that way ??????? I am a little confused by comments provided by some JVP-supporters.
          .
          See how pathetic Sri Lanka’s thinking has become? I also know some people in Colombo who are easily offended to hear a person being addressed as “Sir”: they don’t seem to know that many people use it to be polite in handling language. Some of our islanders are stupid as no others.
          .
          That is the psychology of our Sinhalese people. As some Japanese professors try to say, if our people’s “manaya-puhu pamporia” were removed, these people would have become a progressive nation before long.

          TBC

          • 6
            0

            3
            .
            Bandarawella Tisahami (not to offend Tisahami, but the so-called ex-teacher’s general knowledge is similar to that of a tribal leader in the Amazon) was permanently silent at the time, Sri Lankan tabloids repeated, along with “His Excellency” Mahinda Rajapaksa. we now know that MR is the most despicable man in the country.
            .
            Further to this, back then, uneducated Austrian housewives were usually addressed with their husbands# prefixes, if for exmaple husband was a title wearer for Doctor, wife was also addressed by the prefix ” Frau Doktor”: That is changeable from one culture to other.
            The surprise is that there is nothing in the mind of neither of Simon and Bandarawella joker. Their little brains are completely confused by JVP brutality.

            Tbc

            • 6
              0

              4
              . Today it is turning positive if inflation has come down from 70% to 25% with rupee strengthening day by day. However, the Bandarawela man did not give way to facts, that is his nature all along.
              Ranil does not seek for praise like mlechcha Rajapakshes. He knows that majority of sinhalayas are human beasts. He partly focuses on real “Dharma in Buddhism”. No media shows of him, like that of Mahinda’s who licked the “BO-TREE” round the clock, so that SIMON’s kadamandiya people or the like could easily be misled, remember ?
              .
              Anyone with some sanity knows that what people are experiencing today cannot be digested. Who is to blame?

              Why doesn’t the Bandarawella joker seem against Rajapaksa even today? Because that clown is afraid of dogs. He was brainwashed by Vijitha Herath and some other stupid people. This is common to many people living there.

              tbc

              • 5
                0

                5
                South Korea became what it is today by confronting the unspoken. Our laborers work for korea today. There is a term in GERMANY ” nothing comes from nothing”. That is why sacrifices are the need of the hour.
                .
                Our people speak loudly about SOUTH KOREANS today, but our guilt-dominated society does not seem to listen to others. Many of them wear religious cloaks or so-called scholarly cloaks, but the truth is that as a nation we must commit ourselves to a better future.
                Today Ethiopia is untouchable. All hail the former starving nation, replacing it as “the most powerful emerging economy on the African continent.”

                SRILANKA is instead ridiculed by the world today to be the only country which was fooled by a stupid uneducated criminal family (Rajapakshes).

                So long majority of our people remain stupid as SINHALA MAN from Bandarawella, nothing will change for the benefit of the masses. Alas, what a nation …. being stagnated forever ?

                • 2
                  5

                  Something that my Professors (Ashley Halpe, Thiru Kandiah, Sarathchandea Wickremasuriya, et al) used to say was that the University is not some Vocational Training or Polytechnic Institute. Some students might opt to immerse themselves in Politics, as Wasantha Mudalige appears to have done. That is not your business!
                  .
                  I was not indifferent to the politics of the time, but my focus was on academic work. I did very well, and you know that.
                  .
                  I now focus on what concerns us today. Ranil Wickremasinghe has proved himself a clever wheeler-dealer, and he ought to now conduct elections. You seem to say incoherent things about the Rajapaksas. Don’t you realise that it is Ranil Wickremasinghe who is now totally dependent on them.
                  .
                  When have I ever said anything positive about the Rajapaksas?
                  .
                  It would also be sensible for you to pay more attention to your vocabulary. Intelligent readers will realise that you are very successful in “oranising” green thumbs for yourself, and red thumbs for me.
                  .
                  Panini Edirisinhe

                  • 2
                    5

                    By the way, what an Interim President of a bankrupt nation, who is well over the age that he ought to have retired, ought to do is organise elections.
                    .
                    He would be well-advised to retire himself, but let him contest himself, if he wants to.
                    .
                    I myself am of the view that our voters often make the wrong choices, but the only way to persuade them to take their task seriously is to treat all voters (other than those who have disqualified themselves through proven criminal acts) with respect. I’m too old to do much, and must depart soon. But that is the very reason why we should not stifle the young.
                    .
                    Conduct Local Government Elections without delay. That is what the rules stipulate; respect the rules.

                    • 2
                      0

                      Elections should not be held until there is some form of economic growth. This is easily realizable to anyone with some sanity but hateful men that work for agendas would not see it right.

                      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWiZbDtgkI4
                      .
                      The recent elections did not bring anything to this nation/country. If anyone objects, please add your comments.

                  • 0
                    0

                    The name of God, please don’t insult ur professors. 🙏

    • 5
      0

      Native, agree. My question is where is reconciliation, religious/race/citizen equality pillar ???? can we still raise the foundation without the pillar as we did in last 75 years, which came down crashing. SriLanka will never develop without it. There is more termites than pillars in Lanka .

      • 6
        0

        Ranil, is trying with bare minimum of four pillars to hold the crashing foundation (without single center pillar). Since INdependence we have tried different “LAB METHODOLOGY” (economies of Senanayakas, Bandas, Uncle / Nephew, Premadasas, Rajapaksas) with same outcome. There is more termites in Lanka than pillars, as in, politicians, racist, Pseudos, Criminals, Fascists, Prelates, Corrupt, Immoral, Retards . . . . . . .

        • 1
          0

          Native, today news, “Lanka receives 40 metric tons of rice from USA ??????” . Thanks to our local wizards / politicians, Self sufficient was yet another outcome of their “LAB METHODOLOGY” .

      • 5
        0

        chiv

        “….. can we still raise the foundation without the pillar as we did in last 75 years, ..”

        JR Tried and Failed.
        Chandrika tried to bring some sort of political settlement and stability first and she failed.

        Mahinda kept people under army control and built roads yet he failed.

        Ranil is trying his best but likely to fail.
        All those corrupt racists are lying in wait to ambush.

        Poor Mahinda, his wife would not let him retire gracefully.
        She wants to see his Baby Namal’s coronation.

        Our Surgeon General Shavendra has sent a letter of demand to Wimal Sangili Karuoppan which is interesting. Wimal must have over done it.

        Wonder whether Sangha Nayakas know what is going on in and around the country.

        Wonder whether China, Chinese companies, Chinese ….. are funding Saffronistas’ and Sinhala/Buddhists’ adventures in this island. Diaspora could help them launder money. If not who is paying Saffronistas to build Vihare in the North East while armed forces enforce peace?

        Too many issues.
        nimal fernando does not like corrupt functionaries are being blamed for inefficiencies, corruption, mistakes, aiding and abetting crimes, …..
        He is still in the 1940s.

    • 2
      0

      “The Sri Lankan Administrative Service (SLAS)”

      Native, Are you for real?

      Who set the example for the SLAS? ……… Did the SLAS set the example for the politicians? ……. Or did the politicians set the example for the SLAS ……. and the rest of the society/country/people?


      I just don’t have the time ……… I can write volumes about the impeccable ethics of most of the earlier generation of SLAS …….. of all ethnicities ……. that was systematically corrupted by the culture brought in by the pols!

      • 1
        0

        nimal fernando

        “I can write volumes about the impeccable ethics of most of the earlier generation of SLAS …….. of all ethnicities ……. that was systematically corrupted by the culture brought in by the pols!”

        You are right.
        However members of SLAS are the custodians of the state not the politicians who come and go. Functionaries are supposed to protect the state and its assets, maintain law and order, ……………… plan and implement economic development, efficient management of the state machinery,……….. not the crooks.

        So it is the corrupt SLAS which……………….

    • 1
      0

      We have heard the words “Sacrifice for the future generation” from all Prime Ministers/Presidents beginning in 1948 and thereafter. And here we are.

    • 1
      2

      Native Vedda,

      Do you seriously believe that the Arm Chair Critic nimal fernando along with other Ranil Bashers who regularly post on CT, has the capacity to digest Ranil Wickremasingh’s Statement? I wonder!

      • 2
        0

        Gamini,

        Poor you!

        You’re getting funnier than Nathasha Edirisooriya ……… be careful you might end up in jail ……. if Ranil gets a sudden craving for girls and discard boys ……. after Native’s expensive makeover to make him a ladies’ man!

        Oh boy! You guys are the funniest comedians in town!

        I just love the forum …….. makes my day! :)))

        • 1
          0

          nimal fernando

          “if Ranil gets a sudden craving for girls and discard boys ……. after Native’s expensive makeover to make him a ladies’ man!”

          Now you are worried.
          The competition must be very tough for you, you will be left with …… after old codger and Ranil picked their beauties with brains.
          Nimal life is tough.

          One consolation SJ is not competing with you lot.

          • 0
            0

            Don’t worry, Native! There’s enough fish in the ocean. …….. I fish where they are not fishing. :))

            Ranil, well, that’s a piece of cake: like the UNP, he’ll reduce his count to 0 – no competition ……. but Old Codger, that’s another story! :)))

  • 2
    12

    Dear Tamil readers,
    .
    Please pardon me
    for all the links taking you to Sinhala videos. We’ve got to be realistic; this won’t change in the near future, although we must make efforts to get that done.
    .
    I first realised that we were in for this pontificating from this excellent speech (no, none of what I’m now referring to is by a front rank NPP leader):
    .
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVXNqnUgmt4
    .
    I then listened to a speech in which Wasantha Mudalige forecast, with remarkable accuracy what Ranil was going to say. That I heard on my smartphone, so locating from “History” is difficult.
    .
    Then I turned my TV on for the monthly exercise which I provide it with. Heard Ranil saying the predicted, which was done well enough to thrill his scalawags, as we shall witness when the comments get displayed.
    .
    tbc, by Panini Edirisinhe (NIC 483111444V) of Bandarawela

    • 2
      10

      CONTINUING
      .
      Following the now fearsome Dictator’s speech, Mudalige, who hails from the driest area of my Uva Province, has launched his ten-minute critique of Ranil’s speech. Please pay special attention to what Mudalige says in the final two minutes here:
      .
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KHzYfLA_hwg
      .
      He warns us against the (usually anonymous) worms that will now creep out of the woodwork to rouse racial and religious hatred in subtle, (e.g Dan Silva, old coder) and more direct ways (e.g. Jayasumana and srikrish). I fear that we are in for a very rough six months.
      .
      “Six months”, and not “eighteen”? It may be that I’m being rather optimistic, but I feel that all this rabidity from the evil despot may be forced to a halt by the many still trustful suckers who imagine that the Batalanda butcher is a clean man.
      .
      More than for any others, let us pray for the bold Wasantha Mudalige. The NPP leadership will (rightly) tread more cautiously. We don’t want martyrs; I’m hoping that all the guardians of our rights will survive to emerge into the sunshine of liberated Lanka.

      • 5
        6

        S-M: You address President Ranil W “BATALANDA BUTCHER”. Agreed with the evidence coming from that “Presidential Report”.

        But “ramona therese fernando” addresses him “HONORABLE PRESIDENT RANIL”.

        I am a little confused. Perhaps there could still be remaining some “Honor” that we cannot see but those “124” MPs saw. Yet, I do not wish to follow them.

        • 1
          5

          Dear Simon,
          .
          Ramona makes many comments, and if you take the “oeuvre“, she is utterly consistent, concerned and decent.
          .
          Ranil (a lawyer by training and a cunning politician who is past the stage when he can make any useful contribution) has hauled himself legally into a position where he is constitutionally entitled to this “Honorable” prefix. Without a doubt, she uses it sarcastically.

      • 4
        1

        SM,
        What exactly is the point of your incoherent ramble? Do you have no logical arguments, that you take refuge in hour upon hour of regurgitated FLSP propaganda?
        Get a life, man!

        • 4
          0

          OC,
          .
          The Joker Sinhalese man thinks that I am the biggest threat to the Sinhalese nation. The biggest joke was that he read my head. Doing everything to keep his JVP friends satisfied. This man is sick to my knowledge, …. Today the Mulleriya is waiting to give him medicine.
          :
          Not a single word comes out of his cesspool that the Rajapaksas are to be blamed for the whole mess. Even the little school children know that we all have to blame the beasts in Medamulana, but to do the rest we have to get out of the pit we’ve fallen into.
          .
          I really don’t know why a guy in his 70s would turn into a teenager for no good reason. I am just a Sri Lankan expatriate who exposed a lot about the real crooks in Sri Lankan politics. For the last 20 years or so, like the Sinhala man, I have not stopped it, when I see something, I expose it. Unlike him, I didn’t reveal anyone’s identity because I wanted to take revenge on him.

          Now with my trip to Sri Lanka he is revealing more about me because he is focused on killing me on the spot the way JVP veterans (his friends today) did from 1989 to 1992.
          Earlier, I posted SWEET chocolate for him but this time I have no choice but to post “country grass- RATATHANAKOLA”.

        • 1
          3

          Dear oc,
          .
          Why not stop playing tricks? Quite recently, you told me that you’d explain the advantages that would accrue to us by allowing a Chinese firm to distribute petroleum. Although I don’t pretend to know much Economics, I saw that what you were detailing for me were the advantages that would flow from economies of scale.
          .
          I know that we shouldn’t over-estimate our abilities, but where is this going to end? We surrender all, but then do we have any say in what follows? Even if we save some money, what’s he point if it all gets stolen?
          .
          Our main problem is corruption – at the very top. Where is the accountability? I’m not re-regurgitating any propaganda. This is just common-sense.
          And I’d like to stop bandying insults. We must be more constructive.

          • 2
            0

            SM
            “Even if we save some money, what’s the point if it all gets stolen”
            What ARE you talking about? If the Chinese can supply you with cheaper petrol for your Honda, is that bad or good? Do you believe that it is bad because the JVP says so?
            For your info, our main problem is NOT corruption. India is probably more corrupt, but they aren’t bankrupt.
            “And I’d like to stop bandying insults”
            Well, what do you expect when you don’t understand the very basic laws of economics, but keep prattling on about JVP fantasies?
            “Constructiveness” doesn’t equate to blind faith in empty promises.

  • 5
    0

    Honorable President Ranil,

    Again you compare the Motherland to S. Korea and Singapore. Wrong comparison. Wrong development Era. In line with our country history, geography, and people-aspiration, we need to compare ourselves to places like Vietnam, Buthan and Denmark and develop accordingly. Once we stabilize ourselves, then we can aspire to the Singaporean status if they are still at the same status in 2048 – two generations from now.

    The sustainable development following the Andhra region sounds ok (but was it the movie I saw where murder and suicide of occurred because traditional farms were taken over for ugly windmills!!!?……windmills for what, when millions have lost their livelihoods for some cheap electricity they have been forced to buy so the cities can look grand, and for a few politician to become rich? )

    Whist encouraging private investment with your labs, it will be much easier if the private investment is mostly for the traditional industries of farming, fishing, forestry preservation, some continuing plantations, and tourism….indeed tourism is dependent on the first 3. In the end, your goal is all about S.Korea and Singapore – a bit different from Rajapakas’s oil-rich Dubai aspiration, but whist theirs was a silly delusion, yours is a terrible reality of severe taxation of the suffering masses and detriment of the rural sector

    • 5
      0

      You cannot use American Shark Tank TV show techniques with the accumulated Lankan money of the Lankan ultra-rich on Lankan soil. That money needs to be returned to the masses so they can start from ground level like their ancestors did, without profit-making for foreign items and experience.

      In the end, the SOE are being sold to foreign entities.
      That’s an easy way out for short-term gain. If our SOEs are not efficient, isn’t it better to get foreign consultancy instead? We’d be far richer that way.

    • 5
      2

      “Honorable President Ranil,”

      Oh! C’mon Ramona! …… Not you!!

      Your better-half OC has influenced you too much! ……… Where’s ye independence?

      You don’t always have to toe ye husband’s line!

      • 5
        2

        he’s Batalanda Butcher isn’t he, ne men.

      • 2
        1

        Nimal,
        “Oh! C’mon Ramona! …… Not you!!”

        The times they are a-changin’……
        But not that guy on the Honda…….

  • 3
    2

    Do you find anything “Special” in this “SPECIAL” statement made by the President?

    It is all about “What I would do”. Haven’t we heard from him and all others who preceded this man this same story and for how long?

    This time, he (the President) and those “124” psychopaths in Parliament have got hold of a “GIFT” – “A DREADFUL GIFT” from the IMF. The IMF has got hold of a “Man” to “DISMANTLE” all that we have and “ESTABLISH” a “NEW” “UTOPIAN” country by “2048”. It is no doubt the “Grand Plan” of the IMF; The World Bank; ADB; the Paris Club and all such “Donors”.

    I have given a brief of this “IMF” scheme and “Action Plan” of Ranil’s Government in my comment dated May 31st in the essay titled “IMF Bailout” by Dr, W.A.Wijewardane that appeared in CT. You are invited to read it. Thank you.

  • 4
    0

    The main problem, the ethnic and religious issue remains unaddressed. It is what has deterred progress in our country and has been the main basis of our politics. Unless there is ethnic and religious peace the country cannot progress. With an army soaking up so much of our income retained in the north and the east and military parades of unusual expense how can we progress?
    IMF is not the only solution. What about recovering the stolen assets of our people from abroad. It is easy to do through processes provided by the World Bank and governments like the US and Switzerland. Promises were made as to that but not kept because cronies will be affected.

  • 3
    0

    Cicero continued.
    Then, there is the question as to how the dumb wits who are ministers can run Labs. In Singapore, the Ministers are highly qualified technocrats who have expertise in a diversity of subjects. The Uncle also told us that he was making us into a Singapore. Look at what the Nephew has along with others made us into. So, here is another promise that the Nephew makes.
    Foreign investment led recovery is possible but the story is that no foreign investor comes into a country controlled by nit wit politicians who are corrupt. It is visible that the corrupt continue to hold onto power and their corrupt wealth. There is no plan to deal with them though accountability is promised. How about accountability for the human rights violations as well. The speech does not answer many questions.

    • 2
      2

      Ranil Wicramasinghe , the President has presented his vision for the country when the country celebrates her centenary in the year 2048.

      It is a twenty five year Master Plan. He had prepared it single – handedly without any involvement from any other Sri Lankan citizen or perhaps with the help of handful of only his close associates.

      He in his wisdom has not indicated any systemic changes or system changes or that an autocratic system may be the system in his mind that could solve all his problems as he sees them..

      The rest of the country believes in a participatory democracy with all systems geared to serve that end and this may be the panacea for the 75 year long tragedy.

  • 6
    0

    Ranil is talking about:

    Correct practices – appointing UNP boys and girls who got kicked out by the voters
    being advisors to the President to build the war chest for UNP for
    next election?

    Achievement – only achievement is not paying debt and blocking imports and
    negotiating more debt?

    Hardship by Citizens – appointing Mega Cabinet and an equal or larger number of
    State ministers and advisors? MPs paying a different PAYEE?

    Social Reform – State Terrorism blocking peaceful protests and arresting under PTA?

    Provide Recovery – none of the crooks as promised have been charged, contrary to
    this, politicians who had cases pending and cases have been
    withdrawn.
    These cases were filed by the earlier AG who is now the CJ and
    the present AG withdraws the case. Does this mean CJ did not
    know his job?

    Stabilizing the country – only stabilization is by not paying debt and borrowing more
    with stopping imports has provided some
    breathing space.

    Fiscal & Financial Reform – Yes crooks are still free and wielding power?

    Social Protection – State Terrorism in violation of free speech and peaceful protest
    results in arbitrary arrests under PTA? Selective Justice. Kappam
    guy and bribe-requesting MPs are now ministers.

    Public engagement – presenting bills in the Parliament with no public consultation
    and in violation of the constitution – struck down by the
    Supreme court?

  • 0
    0

    A couplet in Thiruvaudpaysn says:

    The Aanavam (Me, arrogance, vainglory…….) is more cruel than dark, because if encounter the dark yourself, you know you are in dark; so the dark was successful in hiding all thing in front of you but failed hiding itself and suppress your self-alert, warning you that you are in the dark. But a soul possessed by Aanavam cannot realize that it is possessed, and so those souls have no way to savage them, unless God notices their desperation and redeems them on his own. The Evil Emperor’s Secret Solution II is one level beyond Aanavam, and has so far well evidenced that it can even possess your salvaging God and destroying the without any escape route for you. Justice CV’s, Rudra’s, and others’ Referendum, Sivagnanam’s hand stretching to Charles and the Evils are some indications that your God that who is supposed to salvage you, has already fallen as victim, on the feet of Evil, so your(ones’) end has no hope of being changed.

    ATA, Press Freedom control, no election, kidnapping from prison the freedom fighters for murder, all on the name of “Openness in Developments” shows their Secret Tranny. Tell me the name of a country where freedom was delivered for citizens by these kinds of harassment?

  • 0
    0

    If it is made by the commons, even a comedy show is sin on the “Prison term prescribed on this Earth, which is called Sinhala Buddhist Land”? It is here the Comedy Club UN’s ICCPR has turned crueler than Aanavam. “i.e., “Nobody talks about the Tyranny of the Sinhala Buddhism. “But what is being planned at Srikotta is a secret even for the Sinhala Buddhist UNP-SLFP second level tyrants. It Is it for the additional pain for the Weaks the UN is protecting the secular religions? I am wondering Is there Puttu Kaddie in the mouth of the Comedy club called UN, to frankly declare that “This is not our ICCPR? So, it is illegal to use the phrase we coined for another purpose . How many times the Evil Empire had abused the barbaric “ICCPR” on the poor, helpless, Ignorant crowd?” Why can’t the UN amend this resolution? so the tyrants will not be able to abuse it? The burned vegetation by failed rain in the fields may be refreshed by the all-seasons flowing river. But if the river comes in the form of molten Lava, where would all trees and grasses run and hide? The UN has passed the ICCPR to the suffering of the Ceylonese. Same way, The Shylock IMF has selected the poor Ceylonese to rob and pay Paul the commission they demand.

  • 0
    0

    For 75 years the barefooted Tamils chickens are walking on the fire-bed called “Appe Rata” to reach their freedom lost a 500 years ago. The Evil (Who purposely, it seems, had combed his hair to look like Hitler for that occasion) on his propagation of revelation of Tamils, not even by accident mentioned Tamils or Secret Solution II. Remember, that after the Genocide war, the other Satan said that in Langkang, there were no minorities. So, there are no Tamils, no minorities but only open development for the only religion that is protected by the constitution. (Constitution did not recognize all, but only Sinhala Buddhism; that is why the ICCPR turned out to be a second PTA over the Tamils.

  • 0
    0

    The dark black color of the sky suggests that it is purposely hiding what is in that. Then why are some ones like CV, Rudra, Sivagnanam like the ones jumping in front for the name “I did it I did it” As per Evil’s Open Development Revelation, “we all have done it together; none of you can undo, even if you are not in those of “I did it.” It is because no one may remain to undo anything that is being done with the grip of Black smith’s tools (the fork, the anvil, the forge fire, the hammer), the ICCPR, ATA…….. Evil’s judgment for all will be more equal than God’s Judgment. If your quest is unquenched freedom in Langkang, this questions in mind for those who rush with “I did it, I did it”

    Varuven naan unadhu

    Maaligaiyin vaasalukkae

    Yeno avasaramae

    Ennai azhaikkum vaanulagae

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmcbZ9CxZ8w

    ( Sure I will surrender soon at you fortress’s gate,

    Why is this hurry to pull the strings so heavy, the angels World?)

    We all will be doing it together as per Evil, when the time is ripe.

    • 0
      0

      Mallai , welcome back.

      • 1
        0

        Thanks Chiv.
        I have been here everyday.
        Could not write. But was reading.
        So welcome ” back” is only for writing.

  • 0
    0

    “Therefore, I invite all Sri Lankans to join me in this journey to create our new and shared future our beautiful country. “
    Dear President, Please tell us what is your new shared future of our country after 50 years of your political carrier as Minister, several time Prime Minister and the unexpected coup to become the President? You mean you and Rajapaksa family shared future?

    • 0
      0

      “Therefore, I invite all Sri Lankans to join me in this journey to create our new and shared future our beautiful country. “

      But he corrected it in the Poson Message.

      “Therefore, I invite all Sri Lankans to join me in this journey to create our new and (Racist) future i.e our Sinhala Buddhist country. “

      It is Ok if the Indian Demulu Pario Dr. Jaisankar paying in $Billion to have the Sinhala Buddhism spread in Wildlife Sanctuary, SinhaLE because he is saying the proudness of Sinhala Buddhism and its raping, looting, robbing, all the super cultural civilization too came with Vijaya from Hindian Land, But for what the heck the IMF is funding the culture of Resolution 1373, ICCPR…………. because those tyrannical laws are UN invention?

  • 1
    0

    The statement is a lot of words without any substance. We have to wait for 25 years to see the results. Till then, the people suffer and keep making sacrifices.
    The plan itself is going to be made by LABS consisting of corrupt politicians and YES men. It is all going to be new and the existing set up is going to be dismantled and thrown away. We are going to have new investments whilst existing investments can keep rotting.
    Where is the real change coming from? Where is the call for every body to put their shoulders to the wheel and work hard? Where is the accountability of the rulers? Are we going to continue to have corrupt Governments that controls everything instead of Governments that facilitate economic development and harmony amongst the citizens?

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