Sri Lankan politicians and the credibility issue

“Politicians must stop betraying the confidence and trust placed in them by the voters of this country. Power should be exercised judiciously. I recollect, this was told long years ago by the Supreme Court to Minister Iriyagolla in the context of his order to remand the husband in the Slave Island camp pending deportation, where the spouse was a citizen of this country.”
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by S. Thambyrajah

(March 26, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) One of the greatest drawbacks — almost a national trait — of the politicians of Sri Lanka is the lack of credibility. Of late some have become notorious is this regard. Our ancestors were noted for keeping to their world of honour — indeed a pride — whereas today there is quibbling and different meanings are given to suit the vagaries of political leadership even in a written document.

In this situation where politicians are changing like the weathercock, it is not at all surprising that the offer of a ceasefire by the LTTE spokesman is treated with suspicion. At the same time, just because trust has been betrayed on earlier occasions, the offer should not be summarily rejected. What is required is to act with caution, and not throw away a chance that gives even a glimmer of hope for peace and saving of valuable Sri Lankan lives.

Time is flying while our politicians keep on debating. Braggadocio and scoring debating points do not help the people or the country. An occasional joke to ease tensions is okay, but the august assembly that is parliament should not be made a jokers’ paradise.

What is required is to arrest the deteriorating law and order situation in the country. The government and the opposition can do it if they can make up their minds to cooperate and act with a sense of responsibility and understanding.

Politicians must stop betraying the confidence and trust placed in them by the voters of this country. Power should be exercised judiciously. I recollect, this was told long years ago by the Supreme Court to Minister Iriyagolla in the context of his order to remand the husband in the Slave Island camp pending deportation, where the spouse was a citizen of this country.
- Sri Lanka Guardian