Monday, 12 January 2015 00:01
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The compassionate era has begun. Newly-elected president Maithripala Sirisena addressing the nation in Kandy was keen to hit all the right notes on reconciliation and appeal to his fellow parliament members to assist in forming a consensus to push through crucial Constitutional amendments.
There is no doubt that everyone is listening to Sirisena’s plea. Reports indicating that the bulk of the Sri Lankan Freedom Party (SLFP) old guard are ready to cross over and reform the party under the leadership of the new president have been splashed across media. Top aide and confidant Dr. Rajitha Senaratne also underscored this at a press conference on Saturday and Sirisena sealed the deal in a way during his address, which kicked off with an appeal for a national government.
For the new coalition unity is key. Not just unity within its own party but unity within the Parliament to push through historic amendments that will see the trimming of executive powers and the establishment of independent commissions that were at the core of its campaign pledges. Another point that involves unity is the question of solving the ethnic issue by devolving power to the north and ensuring minority rights.
In all kudos to Sirisena, he has started out well. in his first address to the nation he insisted he would not contest for a second term, thereby opening up the space to push through necessary but potentially challenging reforms, which the country undoubtedly desperately needs but may not be the best recipe for a reelection bid. The new president insisted during his speech in Kandy that Sri Lanka needs a “humane man as its leader and not a king.” A clear attempt to distinguish himself from his predecessor and perhaps rectify his mistakes.
On the eve of the Pope’s visit the new government, such as it is, will be keen to establish itself in the eyes of the world as a force for positive change. Pre-election material released by the hapless Vatican, that could not foresee the momentous events that were to take place just a few days ahead of the papal visit, had informed international media former President Rajapaksa will be on hand to welcome the Pope. No doubt Sirisena’s camp has other plans now. The catholic community will only add to the lustre of the new president’s pro-minority policies.
Over the weekend this message of unity and peace was somewhat disrupted by two top members of Sirisena’s coalition. Former Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera and Dr. Senaratne told media Rajapaksa made an attempt to stay in power “by force” and called for an investigation into his conduct. They also alleged attempts were made to dissolve Parliament and when that failed call out the army and police. The seriousness of these allegations cannot be overstated but dealing with such a Pandora’s Box will have to be tackled carefully indeed.
Probing corruption allegations, particularly against the Rajapaksa family and its extensive network will also be a thorny issue. Even though the President has made clear his intention of appointing an independent unit to conduct the investigations under an autonomous police, no process will ever be devoid of the perception of bias. It would also potentially be a time consuming and divisive affair.
Reexamining large-scale development projects, especially those funded by China, will be another massive endeavor, particularly if the Government wishes to renegotiate some of the terms and conditions. On these fronts the compassionate will have to become combative.
