Good governance, accountability: requires determination

If the present Government is to confidently sail through to the next election, several urgent and strategic priorities must be addressed.

1. Stop blaming the past – focus on solutions: While past administrations may have contributed to current challenges, continuously attributing present problems to previous governments does not inspire confidence. The public now expects practical, forward-looking solutions rather than explanations.

2. Long-term solution for paddy cultivators: Agriculture, especially paddy cultivation, requires a stable and sustainable policy framework. Farmers need:Guaranteed pricing mechanisms, Proper storage facilities, Timely fertilizer supply, Market access without political interference.

A long-term agricultural strategy is essential rather than seasonal, short-term interventions. Surely it’s not acceptable when the minister in charge says he requires two years.

3. Revive the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ Initiative: The initial enthusiasm surrounding the Clean Sri Lanka programme has visibly faded. In the early days, we saw active participation including politicians cleaning beaches, drains, and bus stands. Today, that momentum appears to have evaporated. Public campaigns must be consistent, not symbolic. Sustained monitoring and enforcement are necessary to maintain credibility.

4. Address urban management consistently: In cities such as Kandy, pavement hawkers were removed in an effort to improve urban order. However, similar issues have now surfaced in other areas. Law enforcement and municipal regulations must be applied uniformly across the country to avoid merely shifting problems from one locality to another.

5. Ensure equality before the law: Perhaps the most important expectation of the public is justice and fairness. The principle of equality before the law must be upheld, irrespective of whether individuals are friends or political opponents.

There is growing public perception that authorities are slow to act on complaints against government supporters. Such perceptions erode trust and must be decisively addressed.

6. Justice and fair play over costly promises: While the rising cost of living remains a serious concern and a potential electoral threat, justice and fair play require less financial expenditure than economic reforms. What they demand is political will.

Economic recovery takes time and resources. However, good governance, fairness, accountability, and consistency — requires determination. If the Government can demonstrate sincerity in these areas, it will significantly strengthen its prospects at the next election.

Upali Weerasinghe