Listen to the message

Tuesday, 26 July 2011 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

THE people have spoken, but has their message been heard? As the election fever dies down and political parties attempt to grapple with the reality presented to them with the results, it is time to assess, change and consolidate.

When one takes a look at the results in the north and east, there is a clear message given out to the leadership. The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a party formerly controlled by the LTTE, won 15 of 20 local councils in the old northern war zone and three of six in the east. This clearly shows that despite much promotion of development work by the Government, people still want and believe in shared political rights based on an inclusive society.

There is much empirical evidence from events that have transpired around the world to prove that unless marginalised communities are integrated through political inclusivity, there is greater potential for conflict. In fact the need for political rights is felt so greatly that even if marginal communities are given political equality without long-term plans to implement benefits, even in strained economic circumstances, there is more chance for peace than if they are excluded completely.

While development of infrastructure is important and helps in the reconciliation process, it is not enough on its own. The people of the north have spoken clearly and lucidly in spite of many instances by the State to win their vote through multimillion dollar development projects. The exclusion of political rights has not gone unnoticed and not only do the people miss it, they care enough to do something about it.

These are people who have undergone decades of hardship, insecurity and fear. They have sacrificed their lives, peace of mind and children to the cause of winning political equality as well as the right to live in a peaceful and united Sri Lanka. This much dedication speaks for itself. Even after two years have lapsed since the military phase of the war was concluded, the core issues that spawned the conflict have not been adequately addressed. The voters have shouted this out to the Government in one voice.

Equal opportunities and rights to live with full cultural, religious, economic and social benefits in a united country is the hope of every Sri Lankan. For this to happen, there must be inclusivity at political, institutional, legal and bureaucratic levels. Mistakes that were made since or even before independence need to be corrected now. The present Government with its two-thirds majority in Parliament was given that mandate by the people to make this change in a fair, transparent and accountable manner.

The Government needs to win the battle for peace. For this, it is essential that it keeps more than development projects among its ranks. It must take these local government polls seriously and dedicate itself to founding a politically inclusive society and change the mindset of the people in the south so that they understand the importance of setting past mistakes right to achieve lasting peace.

Unless the top leaders change their attitude and open their minds, they will not understand that an inclusive society will not rob them of strength. Bringing together the talents and skills of Tamils, Sinhalese, Burghers and Muslims will only enrich the country and aid Sri Lanka’s march towards development.