Editorial : Where have all the leaders gone?

27 September 2012 07:37 pm - 4 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

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Leaders are called to be just stewards of those under their care. They are there to provide servant leadership and take care of the people’s needs and welfare. Sadly however, stewardship in our nation seems to be not for serving but to be served. One wonders, when such enthusiasm is shown subsequent to the local elections in the East, each party wants to hold the reins of power. Much horse trading went on among political parties for that end.

A good leader is one who is not afraid to follow the promptings of his or her conscience and not for hidden agendas. He or she is guided by higher principles and a deep desire to do what is right. Such leaders have been few and far between. Yet they have left their mark not on monuments, but in the enrichment of people's and society The more they are genuine and sincere towards those they are called to care for, the more they experience inner freedom. That infects those who have it not.

A true leader is one who dares to be different. Doing that which is right and speaking out against that which is wrong. Naturally they quite often have to take decisions not very popular or say things that may not be pleasing. Naturally the fear of losing popularity or power hinders some. When the principles of servant leadership are not adhered to certain dangerous symptoms manifest. Abdication of stewardship brings a rot in society.

Something is indeed wrong when we read of the daily tragedy of family members being killed, frequent accidents on the road and natural catastrophes, the sexual and physical abuse of children and women. The lack of stewardship brings disorder and breakdown of the rule of law.

The Securities Exchange Commission was allowed to have the freedom of the wild ass with little or no control of the Colombo Stock Exchange. We have statements said to have been made by Minister Mervyn Silva in apparently shielding his son Malaka. The minister said this episode should not be treated as something unusual because fights occur daily. Does this mean that being bullied or beaten by goons having government patronage is part of life in Sri Lanka? Another argument the minister gives is that the army officer was in civvies. It is frightening then if such things could happen to service personnel and the matter swept under the carpet, it could be terrifying when taking wives and children beyond the confines of their homes.

Again we have the Treasury instructing that investigations be halted and the Customs Revenue Task Force be disbanded. This smacks of disgraceful governance.

Leaders need to take responsibility now and not allow justification for outside interference to manage our affairs.

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Comments - 4

Manik Friday, 28 September 2012 03:40 AM

This editorial talks about what should be highlighted in SL today and let us hope and pray that those in power will take note.

R.Suntha Friday, 28 September 2012 06:08 AM

It is simple. They have ceased to be Leaders.

upul Saturday, 29 September 2012 01:55 AM

Why call them Leaders? Sri Lanka should forget about her alliance with China, and invite the Dalai Lama to talk to our 'so-called' Leaders about the 'Real' Buddha Dhamma. Buddhism in this, our Dhammadvipa has become a travesty of what the Buddha taught. Here we lay more stress on the outward rituals, rather than the actual Dhamma of the Buddha. We have made the historical Buddha into a Hindu God, from whom we ask for Blessings and Favours!

Kaslana Saturday, 29 September 2012 02:28 PM

I commend Upul's reply. Why not ask the question - where is the nobility of Buddhism gone?" Anyone with the righteousness of true Buddhism will make a great leader. So can be argued for the other great religions too in our country of rich religious diversity!

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Editorial : Where have all the leaders gone?

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