By Imtiyaz Razak –
Dr Imtiyaz Razak
Introduction
Sri Lanka’s recently concluded 9th presidential elections culminated in a notable victory for the Marxist JVP, led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who secured the presidency after a second ballot count. The election results underscore a significant electoral divide: while a majority of Southern Sinhala-Buddhists rallied behind Dissanayake, the Northern and Eastern Tamil and Muslim populations largely rejected the JVP. This rejection extended to the Tamils of Indian origin, often referred to as Upcountry Tamils.
Why?
Several factors contribute to this electoral split. Leaders from the North and East, particularly among Tamil and Muslim communities, aligned themselves with Sajith Premadasa, reflecting a deep-seated mistrust of the JVP. This skepticism stems from the JVP’s commitment to maintaining Sri Lanka’s unitary state structure—a cornerstone of Sinhala-Buddhist nationalism. The JVP views the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka not as a struggle for rights and recognition but as an issue of terrorism, which has led them to support military actions against the LTTE and oppose the Indo-Lanka Peace Accord. Historically, their fierce opposition to this accord was marked by violent actions against its advocates, including the assassination of the charismatic leader Vijay Kumaratunga, who championed the accord aimed at mitigating ethnic tensions.
The rejection of the JVP by Tamil and Muslim communities raises a crucial question for the party: why have these groups consistently distanced themselves from their platform? If the JVP aspires to foster a more inclusive Sri Lanka, it must confront this question directly. To do so, the party should evolve beyond 19th-century Marxist ideology and cultivate a nuanced understanding of the grievances faced by the people of the North and East. This evolution demands political courage, creativity, and a sincere commitment to addressing the diverse issues affecting these communities.
What Can JVP Do To Win The Trust Of The Tamils And Muslims Of The North And East?
Furthermore, the election results indicate that the JVP has begun to penetrate the voter base of former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, a demographic predominantly composed of Sinhala-Buddhists who previously supported him in his efforts to defeat the LTTE and uphold the unitary state. However, given the JVP’s historical stance and current strategies, it appears unlikely that they will pursue meaningful political solutions to the ethnic conflict— a reality that could hinder their broader appeal and the potential for national reconciliation.
Moderate Tamil nationalists seek a comprehensive solution that does not compromise the unity of Sri Lanka. However, the Sinhalese majority has often overlooked the Tamils’ willingness to coexist peacefully on the island. For many Sinhalese, the constitution that enshrines the unitary state structure serves to reinforce a collective psychological security, deeply rooted in the historical narratives of the *Mahavamsa*, a 5th-century chronicle of Sinhalese history. Ordinary Sinhalese voters, particularly those from rural areas who supported the JVP, believe that the unitary constitution provides security and a pathway out of poverty. In contrast, Tamils view this situation as a manifestation of state oppression. Consequently, it seems improbable that the JVP will significantly alter its position on devolution or embrace policies that recognize the aspirations of minority communities.
Some Ways Forward For JVP
1. Acknowledge Historical Grievances
The JVP should openly recognize and address past injustices, including its historical opposition to the Indo-Lanka Peace Accord and violence against those advocating for Tamil rights. Acknowledging these grievances is a crucial step in building trust.
2. Promote a Federal Structure
Advocating for a federal system that grants significant autonomy to provinces could help address the aspirations of minority communities. This approach would signal a commitment to recognizing the unique cultural and political needs of Tamils and Muslims.
3. Engage in Constructive Dialogue
Establishing open lines of communication with community leaders and civil society organizations in the North and East can facilitate trust-building. Regular consultations can help the JVP understand the concerns and aspirations of these communities.
4. Focus on Economic Development
Implementing targeted economic development initiatives in the North and East can demonstrate a commitment to improving the living conditions of these communities. Economic empowerment can build goodwill and trust.
5. Champion Minority Rights
The JVP should actively promote policies that protect and enhance the rights of Tamils and Muslims. This includes advocating for language rights, cultural preservation, and equitable representation in government.
6. Adopt a Peace-Oriented Narrative
Reframing the party’s messaging to emphasize peace, reconciliation, and coexistence can help shift perceptions. The JVP should present itself as a party that prioritizes harmony among all ethnic groups.
7. Support Transitional Justice Mechanisms
Advocating for transitional justice measures to address past human rights violations can demonstrate a commitment to accountability and healing. This could involve supporting truth commissions or reparations for affected communities.
8. Educate and Raise Awareness
The JVP should engage in educational campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of ethnic harmony and the benefits of a united Sri Lanka. This can help counteract historical biases and misconceptions.
9. Collaborate with Civil Society
Partnering with local NGOs and community organizations can help the JVP build grassroots support and enhance its credibility in the North and East. Collaboration on community development projects can also foster trust.
10. Adapt Political Ideology
Evolving beyond strict 19th-century Marxist ideology to embrace a more inclusive and pragmatic political approach can help the JVP resonate better with diverse communities. This requires a willingness to learn and adapt to the complexities of Sri Lanka’s ethnic landscape.
Conclusion
Winning the trust of the Tamil and Muslim communities in the North and East is essential for the JVP’s long-term success and the broader goal of national reconciliation. By implementing these strategies, the JVP can demonstrate a genuine commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of all Sri Lankans, paving the way for a more inclusive political environment.
In summary, the results of the 9th presidential election illustrate not only the complexities of Sri Lanka’s political landscape but also the pressing need for all political parties, including the JVP, to engage constructively with the diverse voices of the nation. Addressing these disparities is essential for fostering a united and harmonious Sri Lanka.
*Dr. A.R.M. Imtiyaz research focuses on nationalism, ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka and China. He has published widely in top-tier peer-reviewed journals, including World Affairs, Asian Ethnicity, Journal of Asian and African Studies, and South Asia. His articles often explore the intersection of politics, identity, and conflict, providing a nuanced understanding of the complex realities faced by ethnic minorities. He can be contacted at mohamedimtiyaz@yahoo.com
Ruchira / September 30, 2024
First the Tamil Speaking people in Sri Lanka and elsewhere msy have to pay reparations to those others including Sinhalese Biddhists, and to the families of their own leaders, that they ruthlessly assassinated and for the atrocities and injusticrs committed against them at fimes targetting individuals, and their familiesas.
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The 30 year war was their initiative not of Sinhalese Buddhists allegedly hooked on Mahawamsa.
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The author makes a desparate attempt to portray antagonism towards the 13th Ammendment was on the one hand rooted in the allegedly out dated ideology of Marxism and on the other hand in Sinhalese Buddhism and Buddhists hooked on Mahawamsa.
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Let me make the author aware that 13th Amedmnent was forced on Sri Lankan citizens by India to begin with. Then there are those who are neither hooked on Mahawamsa nor Marxism that are not in favour of the 13th amendment. Your false narrative stops there.
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Much could be said about this but, time is limited. Tamils will have to soon pay for the lies they have been spreading about Sri Lanka and particularly about Sinhalese, and Buddhists. Lies about genocide using fabricated statistics and stories. Deceiving international community including the United Nations.
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The cost of a 30 year old war on the country’s economy.
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If anyone’s going to pay reparations it would be Tamils.
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No justice. No peace.
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R.
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shankar / October 1, 2024
Ruchira
If your child refuses to take his medicine because it tastes bitter and the child is seriously ill ,what would you do?The 13th amendment is good for the country as it is like a thread woven to keep majority and minorities together in a united country.Whether it is forced upon or not is immaterial.
Why are we still continuing with the British admin and institutions that was forced on us ?
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Ruchira / October 1, 2024
“Why are we still continuing with the British admin and institutions that was forced on us ?”
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Why?
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shankar / October 2, 2024
Cos they
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shankar / October 2, 2024
Because they are still good for us provided they are manned by people who are selected on merit. Hope Anura will do that.
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Ruchira / October 2, 2024
He he he he. The slave mentality and ideological bankruptcy of the tamil speaking people, who seem to think that some people with pale skin that speak english and pray to god are better than them are exposed. First try to free your minds from being slave to the norwagians, europeans, canadians, australians, new zealanders, and americans, then you moght accomplish something worthy for TSCs. But Like i said not much time left, especially since you have wasted 30 years…. obscuring truth and deceiving, waging war…
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shankar / October 3, 2024
Ruchira
He he he.who bankrupted our country.Not the white skins but the blue blooded Sinhalese.suffering from a inferiority complex ruchi.
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Ruchira / October 3, 2024
“He he he.who bankrupted our country.Not the white skins but the blue blooded Sinhalese.suffering from a inferiority complex”
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Your ignorance is apalling. I bet you don’t read much, other than the garbage published on Colombo Telegraph, and similar sites!
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Educate yourself who John Exter is and his role in shaping Sri Lanka’s economy for close to 75 years.
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Once you do that find out who John Perkins is.
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Then may be there’s something to talk about.
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R.
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Ruchira / October 1, 2024
If the medicine is forced upon the child it os possible that the child might choke and die of it, which is a serious issue, amounting to grievous hurt and eventualy murder, if steps to protect the child are not taken. In any case if the child is seriiusly ill you admit her to the hospital to receive speciakist care, which is evidence based and is scientific. You don’t invite or let your bully neighbour to force feed medicine.
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shankar / October 2, 2024
Ruchira
Even in specialist care they will have to force feed.you have missed the point.srilankans must stop behaving like children and start analysing problems like mature adults without emotions taking over decisions.
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Ruchira / October 2, 2024
No. You can always start an infusion. Force feeding is not necessary. Enough well trained sinhala buddhist nurses who are capable of getting a canula in with minimal distress to the kid. I’ve been there, seen it, and done that.
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Yeah it’s about time the Tamil Speaking Citizens of Sri Lanka behave like civilized human beings leaving aside casteist, ethnoreligious, and territorial identities.
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So lot of work for Tamil SCs to do if they want to survive and ushered into the next era.
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I suggest you start today itself without wasting time. Cos we haven’t got plenty and some of us are several centuries ahead of you.
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Ruchira / September 30, 2024
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Ruchira / October 1, 2024
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.
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Ruchira / October 2, 2024
FY!
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RBH59 / September 30, 2024
Why Did Tamils & Muslims Of The North & East Rejected JVP-Led Alliance?
Sajith rejected what he perceives as a “double standard” from Ranil. The context seems to be that if Ranil aligns with another or with sagith party on the November 21 election or brings others together, people might be encouraged to vote for the current ruling party.
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SJ / September 30, 2024
SL Tamils are still living in some kind of a McCarthy era.
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davidthegood / September 30, 2024
Dr. Razak, you mention the need to evolve beyond 19th century Marxist ideology to political ideology. Are you saying that President is practicing any form of Marxism. On the contrary, he rushed to the Palestinian Embassy here to denounce Israel from eliminating Hamas and Hezbullah terrorists, who attacked Israel on October 7th in the current conflict, thus confirming which side he is on at the moment. Are you aware that German Karl Marx was a Jew, whose parents became Christians. Also, that Karl Marx escaped to the most capitalistic city of London with his wife and children who lived and died and buried there after writing Das Kapital there. Marx is buried in High Gate cemetery in North London. He thought that capitalism involved slavery, exploitation and unpaid workers, wanting them to be free. (No jobs like Mulanas, but Marx was tried for armed insurrection) In SL now, parliamentarians have to return their guns.
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LankaScot / September 30, 2024
Hello DTG,
Marx and Engels were fully supportive of the 1st Indian War of Independence, which the British called “The Indian Mutiny”.
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Four years ahead of the uprising, Marx visualised the possibility of a national liberation movement in India overthrowing British rule: “The Indians will not reap the fruits of the new elements of society scattered among them by the British bourgeoisie, till in Great Britain itself the now ruling classes shall have been supplanted by the industrial proletariat, or till the Hindus themselves shall have grown strong enough to throw off the English yoke altogether.” – https://cpiml.net/liberation/2007/06/1857-eyes-marx-and-engels
Marx and Engels wrote extensively in the UK and Foreign Press during the events. https://www.marxists.org/archive/marx/works/1857/09/16.htm
They would have been fully in support of Palestinian Nationalism. “In 1849 Marx was arrested and tried in Cologne on a charge of incitement to armed insurrection; he was acquitted but was expelled from Germany, and the Neue Rheinische Zeitung was suppressed” – just like Israel is doing with Al Jazeera.
Best regards
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davidthegood / September 30, 2024
Thank you LankaScot. Jewish Marx and Engels had similar beliefs and differed from Moses Hess who too was of Germany and called a liberal Zionist, though Theodore Herzl was the founder of the Zionist movement. Adolf Hitler’s Nazi persecution of Jews, led to this looking for their Jewish homeland which they lost also while in Egypt and later captivity of Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Then Titus of Rome burnt the Jerusalem Temple in AD 70. Finally, Jews were re-established in Israel in 1948 and Jerusalem capital in 1967. Antisemitism with Jewish persecution will continue until they accept their Messiah when he comes again, to judge and make war, Rev.19, 11.
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old codger / October 1, 2024
DTG,
“though Theodore Herzl was the founder of the Zionist movement. Adolf Hitler’s Nazi persecution of Jews, led to this looking for their Jewish homeland “
Herzl founded the Zionist movement in 1897. Hitler only came to power in 1933. Jews were persecuted not only by Hitler but by Christians like you for many centuries. That was why Zionism emerged. You must get your facts right. Doesn’t the Bible tell you not to spread lies?
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davidthegood / October 1, 2024
old codger, Jews were looking for their homeland from the days of their captivity in Egypt, being forced to build pyramids, till Moses got them out. Later, in Babylonian captivity, Cyrus in 538 B.C gave Israel permission to return. When Titus of Rome burnt in AD 70, the Jerusalem Temple, they were finally reinstated mainly after Nazi persecution and declaration of the state by PM David Ben Gurion, affirmed the same day by US President Harry Truman. Loads of other events happened in between. Jerusalem capital was restored in 1967 and God’s promise to Israel is that they will never be removed out, as the resurrected Jesus is coming back to Jerusalem, to rule in kingdom power. No human can alter God’s plan.
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old codger / October 1, 2024
DTG
Don’t change the subject. You said that Zionism was caused by Hitler. You lied, which is a sin.
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davidthegood / October 1, 2024
old codger, don’t be a fool. Read again what I wrote as I never even thought Zionism was caused by Hitler. Good accuser you are, just like Lucifer.
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LankaScot / October 2, 2024
Hello DTG,
This is actually what you wrote “Adolf Hitler’s Nazi persecution of Jews, led to this looking for their Jewish homeland…”
Now you may have meant something else, but in English it means just what it says – Nazi persecution led to Jews looking for their homeland. That is one of the foremost aims of Zionism. Nazi persecution led to Millions of Jewish murders and probably exacerbated the UN and others in advancing the aims of the Balfour Declaration of 1917.
Best regards
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davidthegood / October 2, 2024
LankaScot, better not get mixed up with historical facts which you can’t change now. What exactly do you want from these arguments so you can be at peace thinking you are know-all about the middle east which is unfolding but you are not understanding. Simply watch the events taking place which you hate but can’t alter in anyway.
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LankaScot / October 2, 2024
Hello DTG,
Do you understand what is happening in the Middle East?
“LankaScot, better not get mixed up with historical facts which you can’t change now”
That’s a bit Orwellian from a man that cannot explain the Contradictions and Historical misinformation in the Bible/Torah.
I wrote in Nov_28_2023 to Champa
“I hope you are right, but I don’t have your optimism regarding the ceasefire being permanent. I am afraid that after the end of the Hostage Releases, even if there are extensions for another few days or a week, the Israelis will continue the carpet bombing in the North of Gaza and then start to clear the South”
“I don’t think that you have taken into consideration the deep racialism that exists in Israel against the Palestinians. This has been covered up and even supported by the USA and others over the last 75 years or so. Even after the ICJ ruling the Israelis intend to keep going with their objectives. Notice the distraction about UNWRA personnel reported by Israel and the immediate suspension of aid to the Palestinians. The ICJ ruling will be ignored as far as possible by the US, UK and other western countries”.
Best regards
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SJ / October 2, 2024
LS
He is not a Christian.
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
LS and all other rational thinkers,
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At the beginning of my stay in Germany in the early 90s, when I was in my early 20s, I had fanatical Islamic friends(north africans and ME arabs) in my student dorm. The dorm management belonged to the Anglican Church. It was a house with almost 100 local and foreign students. As I worked closely with the hostel authorities (part of my work to survive as a private student), over time I became one of the most influential members of the admission committee that checked the criteria of the students before they got a place in this charming dorm. We were a little over 60 nationalities, including Asians, Europeans, North Americans, Africans, Latin Americans and Southeast Asians.
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Most of them that tried to convert me from my sinhala-buddhism (I was born to a SB family in SL, but I dont respect HAMUDURUWO/HORU if they come from SL today) were from North Africa and the Arab region. Today I am not a sinhala buddhist but a BUDDHIST by understanding.
Tbd
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old codger / October 2, 2024
DTG,
You wrote “though Theodore Herzl was the founder of the Zionist movement. Adolf Hitler’s Nazi persecution of Jews, led to this looking for their Jewish homeland “
Now you’re denying it. That’s two lies. Very unchristian of you.
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davidthegood / October 2, 2024
old codger, you can’t change history by attacking me, as it does not bother me. Sad that you need psychiatric treatment.
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old codger / October 3, 2024
DTG,
I am not attacking you. I am only showing that you aren’t consistent in what you write. Can you deny that.
BTW, I don’t blame you, because the Bible itself isn’t consistent. “An eye for an eye” and “turn the other cheek” for example.
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
OC,
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Unfortunately, DTG doesn’t know what he is talking about. DTG, RAMONA and SM have a lot in common in their human genome order.
By the way, our speechless JVP supporter in Bandarawella owes us many more answers today. Remember that he made AKD an engineering student, though he is only a physical science graduate. That alone proved SM’s lying skills to CT readers today.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGRCzAohzjA&t=105s
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Why haven’t the JVPrs hanged RAJAPAKSHES and other criminals yet, as they loudly proclaimed before coming to power?
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
AKD has yet to release that report on EASTER SUNDAY REPORT….
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CcL8TZZYvYk
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old codger / October 3, 2024
LM,
Did you hear that Sajin Vaas has been discharged from his cases? If it happened under Ranil’s government, Bandarawela Man would have raised hell.
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
OC,
As a geneticist, I bet you, we clearly find the genome of Bandarwella Vauto, “Burua Gene”. If his DNA is given to me, I can help you with DNA sequencing and similar tests. I don’t really care if anything happens to this despicable man. There is nothing in his head except to persecute me. This time we have to think twice before travellinng back to Sri Lanka, now the barbarians have been given a mandate from the country where Punnakku eatsers are the supremacy. So please if anything comes from SM, please ignore, that help us to stay in healthy.
May you and balanced thought bearers be blessed as always !
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leelagemalli / October 4, 2024
This is what VIJITHA HERATH utters today.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iaofVlt_zY
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Before the seizure of power, their voices were more powerful than today.
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SJ / October 2, 2024
Whatever Lucifer may be, he cannot be worse than an evangelistic humbug.
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SJ / October 2, 2024
oc
Is it among the Ten Commandments?
“Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour” does not fully cover spreading lies.
You are not his neighbour in any case.
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old codger / October 3, 2024
SJ,
You’re right, there aren’t any Bible-thumpers in these parts.
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LankaScot / October 1, 2024
Hello DTG
“[Moses]Hess contributed toward Marx’s “Communist Manifesto” written in 1848, in particular the term “religion as the opium of the masses.”
Be careful who you quote😉.
People on White Horses with swords have not been commonly seen in battle recently.
Is this also true? “the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; 12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel” Revelation 21, 10-12
I thought LSD was a 20th Century invention, but then again maybe there were Magic Mushrooms in the Middle East or Moses Hess was correct about the Opium of the Masses?
Best regards
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davidthegood / October 2, 2024
LankaScot, I repeat what I said earlier that the middle east is not your most accurate topic which is obviously hateful. Better not try to make mistakes of God-given prophetic pictures.
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LankaScot / October 2, 2024
Hello DTG,
Show me the mistakes that I have made regarding the Middle East.
I will repeat my position –
Israel intends to wipe out as many Palestinians as possible. It intends to clear out Gaza and re-occupy it as far as possible.
It also intends to take over the whole of the West Bank and re-settle/legalise all of its discontents (Illegal Settlers) there.
If it can it will pull the US into a war against Iran and Lebanon. There will be Hezbollah resistance in Lebanon (despite their loss of many Commanders).
The Israelis do not want a united Palestinian leadership to be in charge of Gaza and the West Bank, because that is the main hurdle that has to be met for the UN to agree a 2 State Solution. Netanyahu and his right wing cohorts do not want a 2 State Solution, Neither do you! You want Armageddon.
Best regards
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LankaScot / October 2, 2024
Hello DTG,
PS there are many that believe that the US is covertly working in conjunction with the Israelis to ensure that Israel rules from “the River to the Sea”. If they are correct then the US is complicit in Genocide.
The Rulers of many of the Arabic States are not averse to this; they have never been supporters of the Palestinians, however the populations that they rule over are. For these States it is a balancing act for them to keep their people suppressed e.g. Eastern Province Saudi, Bahrain and parts of the UAE.
Best regards
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davidthegood / October 2, 2024
LankaScot, how can West Bank and adjoining Main Israel be in 2 different warring nations. Can’t sleep at night next to an enemy who will promise but fall short and send rockets. West Bank, Gaza, Bethlehem and Golan Heights belonged to the nation of Israel long before Palestinians started claiming it for the Arab world. Islam came with Mohamed in 610 AD, which is so much later than Judaism. Jesus lived and died in the land called Israel, given to Abraham long ago by Jehovah God in an eternal covenant. Now, no nation can destroy Israel until Jesus returns to Jerusalem to rule.
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LankaScot / October 2, 2024
Hello DTG,
I don’t care in the slightest what your non-existent God allegedly promised in your book of Mythology. Every single person no matter their Ethnicity, Religion or Sex should have the same rights. This Apartheid in the Middle East should cease and all the peoples returned to their rightful homes and properties. If this means the dissolution of the Jewish Theocracy of Israel then fine. I have no objection to a One State Solution that gives all people the same rights whether they are Palestinians, Jews, Christians, Muslims or Druze etc.
Now the question is how can this be achieved peaceably? Or will a man on a white horse with a double edged sword coming out of his mouth appear from an opened Heaven to cast all into the lake of fire?
For the confused read Revelation about the “End Times”.
We may very well be in a dangerous situation, but nothing is pre-ordained and Humans can make sensible decisions (but not always).
Best regards
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davidthegood / October 3, 2024
LankaScot, your tragedy is that you believe that nothing is preordained. Even the sun rising in the east and setting in the west leading to 24 hours in a day may be sort of simply happening. Carry on like this till your last breath comes.
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davidthegood / October 3, 2024
LankaScot, the 1st chapter of Genesis explains how Creator God Jehovah preordained his creation with day and night, 7 days a week, lights being sun moon and stars set it up, 7th day of rest later called Sabbath, land and sea and trees and grass and water, animals and birds and finally man. Lot more details of things that did not come out of nothing. Don’t be ignorant.
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old codger / October 3, 2024
DTG,
“Even the sun rising in the east and setting in the west leading to 24 hours in a day”
Don’t be ignorant, David. Don’t youknow that in some parts of the world the sun doesn’t set for six months? Why doesn’t the Bible talk about that?
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davidthegood / October 2, 2024
LankaScot, has it ever occurred to you why so many Arab-Palestinian families live in Israel, doing good jobs and sending their children to excellent schools and living in peace. Why can’t Hamas too do the same.
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LankaScot / October 2, 2024
Hello DTG,
Isn’t it strange that the indigenous people (1.6 Million) of the Country are still there, although 75% were forced out in 1948.
The Israeli Government does not treat Palestinians equally with their Jewish population. Please educate yourself on Apartheid – https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/2/1/israel-carrying-out-apartheid-against-palestinians-amnesty.
I am now tending towards the view that you are a Sri Lankan Christian Zionist living in the US and campaigning for Trump’s re-election.
Best regards
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davidthegood / October 3, 2024
LankaScot, you say you are tending towards the view about US elections. Why not think about our elections on Nov.14th affecting our nation, which also has indigenous people still here.
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davidthegood / October 3, 2024
LankaScot, indigenous people were 1st God-made humans. Later branded by many names like Palestinians, Jews, Turks, Russians, Chinese etc. Apartheid was man made. Don’t worry about Trump as it will be God’s plan
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
LS,
It is getting colder here in NRW as autumn is starting. Yesterday when I came back from another long day of work (in Northern Europe) I was exhausted but I am a bit more relaxed about my next trip to Singapore in the next few days.
You will not believe, but I am a bit scared to come to SL because SM may have organized a crime that will harm me and my family. This man has been unpredictable to me for the last 4 years. Now he seems like a powerful guy being close to Vijitha Herath.
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For me JVPrs are always mlechcha with murder instinct. They killed unestimable numbers of youth in 89-92 insurgency, inlcuding my good friends and peers.
NPP may have softened JVP with their rampage but it may take years for our wounds to heal.
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As I said before, I usually read your posts with much more concentration. And I completely agree with you. Telling “facts” not only to DTG but also to the following guys – Sinhalaman, Champa, Ramona is like water off a duck’s back. Opening their conditioned mindset is effortless.
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tbd
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
cont.
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Recently, the man who likes to call himself “sinhala_man” (ironically not good at all in Sinhala) attacked me publicly as usual without any valid reason that I might have hacked his personal email address. I am not after anyone’s emails if they misuse my email addresses. We did not even open his emails as they were a tirade against the so-called corruption. Hanchopancha understood this earlier and branded SM as the most despicable person in the world.
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Also, I am not a retired person who bothers with such issues except dropping a few lines on CT forum whenever I have time.
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Then SM thought he should correct “our good commenter – OC” and he did so on “biochemistry” where it should have been “biochemist”. It’s all about his grammar and word corrections. Ironically, the estranged man has done much less as an English teacher compared to many others in recent years.
Why on earth can’t these kind of retired teachers be busy teaching English to youngsters? Instead, the stupid man has been indulgent with worship Hooles and others he knows and waste our web space. Aiyo.. when would these guys open their eyes ?
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tbd
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leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
cont.
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Uva is one of the poorest, less fortunate provinces in the country. And knowing that, what else has Panini been doing but trampling around?
I notice him correcting typos, it seems like the man is having a blast doing it. How stupid he must be, most of these errors are “automatic typos”. You may sense this as you are a universal citizen who has had experiences almost everywhere in the world. This makes you a balanced thinker regarding everything being discussed anywhere.
:
The fact is that many including Manel, Jit, HT have distanced themselves from SM’s blackmail in the last two years. I have asked SM to stop writing to me. Still, he thought he could continue stalking. Even today he dares to misuse his choice of words against me. He is a lone wolf looking for some recognition in the world and many are not kind to him. How can anyone be kind to a man of that nature ? like a poisonous reptile….. u never know when he would bite you..
At the beginning I thought the guy was intelligent but he is just as sick a person of rare nature as Ruchira.
–
Tbd
/
leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
cont.
.
Ruchira and SM are like Siamese twins in this forum from the very beginning. Paradoxically, SM stopped flattering Ruchira and did not say a single word against Ruchira’s obscene language in this forum. This seemed very strange to me. No person with half a brain would allow this but the owners of the CT websites did not care. Can you imagine? No wonder, the CT owner stood by JVPrs even though his colleagues were also killed and hanged on house gates in the brutal period 89-92 of our history.
.
Liar, SM claims to have sent me 2000 emails (99% of them BCC) but the truth is he abused my email address to blackmail St. Thomas parishes. Not to lecture me. Why on earth would I rely on a man of this kind to educate me?
.
He is definitely a toxic person who lives in isolation. Although he seems to be a nice person, no one could get close to him. I used to think I could invite him to Europe at my expense as he seems to be somewhat knowledgeable about European literature. Over time, it became clear to me and many others that he suffers from an incurable mental illness. He attacks everyone and has no respect for the facts at all.
/
leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
cont.
.
Being curious about other religions, I started reading about all religions (Jainism, Hinduism, Christianity, indigenous religions, Islam and all others) and learned that religion is just a myth, but to teach discipline and order to Homo Sapiens (for me they are animals too, look at SM and clear your doubts) it should be present to some extent.
–
However, it should not be fanatically linked, as is the case with DTG or the like, because it can destroy almost anything and everything. We should respect the facts. Today, like many of my colleagues in science and medicine, I believe in human evolution, but there are also big gaps because we humans have not yet discovered appropriate solutions to respond to it.
/
SJ / September 30, 2024
“Karl Marx escaped to the most capitalistic city of London”
Were there any socialist countries for him to escape to?
*
If you want to be a nasty Evangelist be so by all means, but it is not like a good Christian.
/
davidthegood / October 1, 2024
SJ, since our experiences are not the same at the moment, I do not expect you to understand or agree with what I say.
/
old codger / October 1, 2024
DTG,
“SJ, since our experiences are not the same ” True, he lives in the real world.
/
leelagemalli / October 2, 2024
OC,
.
Who else lives in the real world? SinhalaMan ?
.
Greetings from North Europe 🙏
/
SJ / October 1, 2024
“I do not expect you to understand or agree with what I say.”
dtg, you can shamelessly say that to nearly everyone here.
/
Sunil Abeyratne / October 1, 2024
davidthegood,
You say ‘On the contrary, he rushed to the Palestinian Embassy here to denounce Israel from eliminating Hamas and Hezbollah terrorists, who attacked Israel on October 7th in the current conflict, thus confirming which side he is on at the moment.’.
‘Hamas’ and ‘Hezbollah’ are the creations of Israel’s relentless persecution of the Palestinians. We in the darkest time of history where Israel is engaged in genocide with the support of the US administration.
I salute Anura if he denounced Israel for the ongoing genocide.
You may not be aware that there are many Jews who campaign on the basis of ‘not in my name’, which oppose Israeli operations.
I have first hand experience working with the Arabs and I know that their feelings run very deep.
It is the fear of the hegemon – USA – that keeps them quiet.
Please don’t quote irrelevant and ancient books to justify genocide.
/
davidthegood / October 1, 2024
Sunil Abeyaratne, are you joking when you say that the bible is an irrelevant and ancient book. The bible has several accounts of genocide. In today’s world too it is quite a prominent feature. Even Elara and Dutugemunu did not see eye to eye. What about Mahavamsa accounts. The civil war ending 2009 and a lot of other examples too. Your firsthand experience with Arabs is not deep enough. They are ready to even be suicide bombers in the name of Allah, who has not been seen by anybody. Japan bombed Colombo on Easter Sunday in !942. Easter Sunday 2019 was promoted bombing of Christian churches in worship their biblical Creator God. Israel is defending itself for the October 7th, 2023, attack by Hamas, not a genocide.
/
LankaScot / October 1, 2024
Hello DTG,
Christianity does not have a good record in their treatment of the Jews. Peter the Hermit in 1096, before the 1st Crusade, led the mass murders of Jews in the Rhineland Massacres. “Peter and his troops participated in the torture and slaughter of Jews in Lorraine, Cologne, Worms, Speyer and Mainz” because “Deus lo vult – God wills it”.
Even in Jerusalem the Christians did not distinguish between Jews and Muslims – “Hundreds of men, women, and children, both Muslim and Jewish, perished in the general slaughter that followed”. https://www.britannica.com/event/Crusades/The-siege-of-Jerusalem
Like Sunil Abeyratne, I have experience working and living in Arabic and Palestinian Communities (Doha alJadeed, Qatar and Rahima/Dammam, Saudi).
The only time I was ever threatened physically (for my views) was by an Israeli Diver in the North Sea.
Best regards
/
davidthegood / October 1, 2024
LankaScot, The Israeli Diver hearing your views must have thought that you deserved some physical stuff.
/
LankaScot / October 1, 2024
Hello DTG,
Very Christian of you?
He was much bigger and stronger than me, but I was faster and more level-headed. After Jacob’s rage had subsided, he agreed that I had a point. Apart from that he knew I was an expert with Cable-ties and Duct Tape😉.
Best regards
/
old codger / October 1, 2024
DTG,
“Your firsthand experience with Arabs is not deep enough. “
How much experience do YOU have? Before you ask, I have ten years.
You claim to be a Christian, but do you even know that many more Jews were murdered by Christians than by Muslims.? How can you justify the murder of children by Israel based on your warped understanding of some ancient text?
/
davidthegood / October 1, 2024
old codger, your Arab experience even over a lifetime may not give you the perspective needed to live a fulfilled life free of frustration.
/
old codger / October 1, 2024
DTG,
I am not the one justifying the murder of children, am I ?
/
leelagemalli / October 2, 2024
OC,
Dtg thinks 🤔 it is the god who is behind daylight murder of children.
.
Good luck to the kind of blind believers.
/
SJ / October 1, 2024
dtg
Do you honestly think that you are living a fulfilled life free of frustration.
Every tantrum you throw says otherwise.
/
davidthegood / October 2, 2024
SJ, you have guessed it wrong again. I am at perfect peace with my Creator God and would like to help others also feel the same.
/
SJ / October 3, 2024
You may think so. But I doubt if God shares that feeling.
/
davidthegood / October 4, 2024
SJ, how do you know what a God you believe does not exist, feels
/
leelagemalli / October 3, 2024
Dear David,
.
Sooner or later you will become mentally ill. Think about your blind beliefs.
–
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzdOOLlsSJM&list=PLpexodIB2RJyrNPgWTLEUVOxKnYhKIIt7
–
I don’t laugh at them, but your beliefs will take you to all extremes.
Please think and try to correct yourself. My mother said too much of a good thing is bad. That is my life motto today.
.
This preacher abuses people with low IQ. Oh, let the truth be revealed to these people and guide them properly !!!!.
Alas, people s problems are much more than apperaed to be.
/
davidthegood / October 4, 2024
lm, you have been watching exorcisms you don’t believe in or understand. I don’t know who the preacher is but is it not obvious to you that when the demonic spirits leave those crazy doings of the possessed, suddenly they are able to walk and be healed again and come back to their normal senses and smile and relate to other human beings. You need to believe in being filled with the Holy Spirit to understand all this.
/
nimal fernando / September 30, 2024
“Why Did Tamils & Muslims Of The North & East Rejected JVP-Led Alliance?”
–
Because they prefer empty promises …… to no-promises!
–
They like and believe in Ranil’s “committees” …….. from cradle to the grave.
/
Ajith / September 30, 2024
“The rejection of the JVP by Tamil and Muslim communities raises a crucial question for the party: “
I really supported Anura/NPP in the presidential election should be the choice of Sinhalese people to get rid of the corrupted racist and fundamentalist politics of the 75 year brutal Buddhist Sinhala majority rule. As a Tamil of this island after the massacre of Tamils in Colombo and shipped them to North East and burning of Jaffna library I felt that Sinhalese leadership cannot protect Tamils of this country. I ask the Sinhalese to think twice how you would be felt when your life is not safe under the Tamil rule?
This is a well written article explaining why Tamils speaking people are away from JVP in the past. The NPP is still a government of Sinhalese that did not changed yet. The Trust on JVP only realised by Sinhalese in 22nd September 2024. Now the responsibility of the ruler is to solve some of the discriminations and oppressions of the past 75 years. Tamils are asking for justice and Truth. They are not asking for financial benefits or financial compensations for their losses they just want to know the truth and justice. Tamils always stand against corruption and misuse of power.
/
SJ / September 30, 2024
Dr IR
Before working on your advice re the JVP winning the trust, is there any idea for getting the Tamil and Muslim leaders to trust each other?
/
davidthegood / October 4, 2024
SJ, you don’t seem to understand that humans will never trust each other fully until they learn to trust God fully in their hearts. (wholehearted)
/
SJ / October 4, 2024
Too many who claim to trust God in their hearts are DAMNED LIARS.
/
Captain Morgan / September 30, 2024
According to Ruchira and a million others like him, ” 13th Amendment was forced on Sri Lankan citizens by India.”
So, who should be blamed for that?
As the conflict in Sri Lanka was undermining regional stability and our government was showing itself to be incapable of addressing and solving it, India as the regional superpower had to step in and take matters into its own hand. No one can fault India for that.
/
Ruchira / September 30, 2024
Sure, given that you can not come up wuth a better argument except inserting your words to my writings copied from various comments, they will be paying for it, as they were neither capable of resolving the internal conflict nor were able to achieve regional stability. How was the 13th Amendment in Sri Lanka going to accomplish stability in Bangladesh, Pakistan or at least in Maldives. Us theee any stability internally in India? So according to your own reasoning India has failed and failed miserably, and will be made to pay! As it only excerbated the conflict that took thirty years to be finally resolved by Sri Lankan tri forces. So yeah power to the Sri Lankan forces for the first time in recent history for defeating one of the most rutheless terrorist organisation not just in the region but also in the world. Time to trasfer the power of maintaining regional stability to such capable hands.
/
Mani / September 30, 2024
A very perceptive and clear piece of writing, Dr. Imtiyaz, on why Tamils and Muslims in this country are wary of the NPP and are right to be so! Your proposals to the NPP/JVP are also spot on – just making promises about equality for ‘all’ is too little, too late. Especially when the JVP’s past record reveals how little they have done for peace and reconciliation with minority ethnic groups – or much rather they have actively sabotaged previous peace and power-sharing efforts.
/
whywhy / October 1, 2024
Simply put , the minority is politically anti communists . JVP is a Marxist group
which never addressed the country anything less than that . NPP might have
satisfied the Majority Sinhala Buddhist vote base due to reasons like it was Sinhala
leaders that FACED the Wrath of the nation . Muslims look at Communists as
Atheists and so feel unsafe in their company . But over time , with more experience
with their success in governance , things might change . Appointment of Western
province governor could help achieve that a little . Muslims now need to start
thinking in tune with changing political landscape .
/
LankaScot / October 1, 2024
Hello whywhy,
“Muslims look at Communists as Atheists and so feel unsafe in their company”
Kerala has around 25% Muslim population. “Why Muslims support Communists in the Kerala assembly elections is a natural question that arises here. There are mainly two reasons. Firstly, communists provide unconditional support to Muslims in their global and regional issues … Secondly, Muslims, especially the Muslim youth, are very much attracted to the communist policy of insulting Hindu culture, idols and rituals that exactly Islam practices in regions where they have a a majority”
https://organiser.org/2024/07/14/247222/bharat/strategic-muslim-voting-patterns-in-kerala-how-community-interests-influence-local-state-and-national-elections/
–
The Left Democratic Front (LDF) is an alliance of left-wing political parties led by Communist Party of India (Marxist) in the Indian state of Kerala. It is the current ruling political alliance of Kerala, since 2016
Muslims in Kerala don’t appear to feel unsafe.
Best regards
/
SJ / October 1, 2024
LS
Even in Sri Lanka, when the left was a serious political force Muslims played a role as strong as that of Tamils in the left parties.
The editors of the Tamil weekly journals of the rival factions of the CP were Muslims.
CP (Peking wing) had at least a Muslim in the Politburo.
the surge of SB nationalism and the nature of Tamil nationalist response to it hurt the Left and with it Muslim participation in Left activity.
/
whywhy / October 2, 2024
LankaScot ,
My comment was about why Lankan Muslims didn’t embrace
JVP/NPP and how I saw it . And not only communism , Lankan
Muslims are generally Left allergic . I mean the majority of them .
It has a long history siding with anti left politics . Thanks .
/
SJ / October 3, 2024
The majority of Tamils and Sinhalese too have been anti-left for some decades.
/
whywhy / October 3, 2024
Sinhalese have made up their minds for a change and the subject
under discussion here is , ” why Tamils and Muslims have not . “
/
SJ / October 3, 2024
The JVP did not really contest on a Left agenda this time.
Did it?
It was mainly about clean government.
/
whywhy / October 5, 2024
” It was mainly about clean government . ” Are you saying NPP
has nothing to do with JVP which is carrying Hammer and Sickle
wherever they go ? It is mainly about ‘clean’ for a vulnerable lot and
not for everyone . My hand phone will say how better they will care
for the people . I am writing here with the experience of personal
touch with two main guys from the same district . But the case here
with you is that you see them only as cleaners . They are more than
that and wait and see their other skills . Already noises are coming
about some of their appointments and I heard one about the Western
province governor appointment , about how lean he is .
/
leelagemalli / October 4, 2024
WW,
Why do you think the Sinhalese have made up their minds for tangible change?
.
The truth is, more than 58% of this nation (eligible voters) are standing up to the barbarians who are our leaders. That is what a 42% minority government means. Sri Lankans are a very vulnerable population full of mental patients. Watch the video below to clear your doubts. Not only the poor, but even the middle-class people of this nation fall prey to the myth of curative transcendence. THat means it is a huge evidence to social and psycho analaysts that we are in need of mental therapies before going to train for voting.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xx6U8PEeZyA
–
Today the crying babies have seized power but now there are no protests. Youtubers abuse their obsene langague against former presidents. Media freedom is hugley violated.
AKD-led groups will have to answer some more questions as to why he is behaving like Gota in today’s most critical issues. Isn’t it?
.
.
/
whywhy / October 5, 2024
L M ,
It is not what I think , it is the result declared by the election
commission . Just check Muslim and Tamil dominated
district results . And also , it is Sinhala people they addressed
most . That is exactly what everybody else did and that is quite
natural . What I am saying here is , Muslims and Tamils are
playing their politics where they are a strong presence . It is still
a race based politics in some parts of the country . Communal
harmony is very safe and that is a good thing . In 1970 , Sirima led
govt was in power but majority of votes were for UNP island wide !
And this is the reason proportional voting came into force under
JRJ . JRI benefitted but party failed . L M , I think it is equally
important to look at Why The Old Order Lost Control of the Engine .
/
SJ / October 3, 2024
LS
Even in W Bengal when the Left Alliance was in power, it enjoyed the support of the Muslims. Of course the Congress too had its fair share.
/
Ruchira / October 1, 2024
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