The silver lining on the dark Geneva cloud

22 March 2012 07:02 pm - 4 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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The resolution in Geneva must be understood in the spirit in which it was presented. The key sponsors of the resolution are all long standing friends of our country and many of them in addition to being important economic and trading partners, helped Sri Lanka in its fight against terrorism. The US, not only proscribed the LTTE, but also played a key role in curbing their fund raising while a special 'Contact group' was formed to monitor and curtail arms procurement in SE Asia. The UK and the EU also dealt a severe blow to the LTTE by proscribing it and coming down heavily on their fund raising activities while continuing to provide Sri Lankan exports with an important market. India, who voted with the resolution, has been a great friend throughout and as Kadirgamar once said our friendship has reached a state of 'irreversible excellence'. Rather than hurl vitriolic abuse at them, the government, even at this stage must realize that the UNHRC resolution is merely a note of caution made by concerned friends who are genuinely worried about the self-destructive direction Sri Lanka is taking.

Perhaps, this is an appropriate moment for introspection and some soul searching by the Rajapaksa regime. Even now, it Is not too late for the Government to admit that it is the short sighted policies and its anti democratic tendencies which paved the way for this resolution and its resounding victory at the UNHRC.

However, it is still not too late to turn a new page and start afresh in a new direction.

The Rajapaksa regime is now at the cross- roads. By continuing on the same old path, they can turn Sri Lanka into the 'new Burma' of Asia - a rogue regime shunned and sidelined or they can choose a new direction which will transform Sri Lanka into a vibrant multi ethnic, multi-cultural democracy which can deliver the bright and prosperous future our people surely deserve.

Dhammashoka or Mugabe? The choice is yours, Mr. President.

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Comments - 4

pam Friday, 23 March 2012 04:13 AM

For once I agree with the opinions expressed by Mr. Samaraweera.
It was a good loss, and though India voted against Sri Lanka, India did more good to Sri Lanka by making amendments to the resolution, than voting against the original resolution. Thank you India.
Now, let's see how the Rajapaksa clan handles the situation. If they can deal with this with the shrewdness that they showed in dealing with everyone during the 2009 war, all will be well. If they react like mad donkeys, then bad times ahead for SL.

Vel Friday, 23 March 2012 03:49 PM

I am glad that there is at least one buddist there to open his mouth....

AP Saturday, 24 March 2012 01:21 AM

Well said Mr.Samaraweera!

akram Saturday, 24 March 2012 06:07 AM

Good to know that we still have politicians who have not lost the soul. As for SL this is indeed a turning point either to make it or break it. So if we are smart, even a threat could be turned into an opportunity. Don't we all deserve what is better.

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The silver lining on the dark Geneva cloud

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