Features

ABOLISH THE PRESIDENCY? THEN WHAT? A NEW CONSTITUTION?

Published

2 years ago

2024/08/18

by Dr. Upatissa Pethiyagoda

There is near unanimity that the Presidential System has failed. Almost every candidate has before election, solemnly promised to abolish this position, but all, following election, have suffered from a “selective amnesia”, which has allowed this pernicious system to continue. In plain terms, they have lied to the entire voting public. One has even been called “a compulsive liar”. This is simply not acceptable from those who project themselves as the “leader” or “number one” of the country.

If the boss is untruthful as that, surely one cannot fault the subordinates for emulating him/her? Corruption is vicious, contagious and disgraceful. The delusion of being “above all” is clearly untenable.

The imposition of this deceitful system, is credited to the sagacity and foresight of the initiator JR. In my view, this is more like selfish egoism, than passionate fidelity or even political wisdom. He also developed “I disease” (Primus inter pares) – exemplified by the lavish use of “Mang koranawa” verbiage. The practice continues. It looks like a vain effort to confuse “the first person singular” with a “singular First Person.”

Like others who use “I” when they should more correctly use “We”. When we say that King Parakrama Bahu built the biggest tank in Polonnaruwa, it would not be right to picture His Majesty clad in an amude (loin cloth) wielding an udella (mammoty). This type of vanity, continues blatantly, even today. As a respected colleague once declared, a “good” planter, is one who does no work himself. Sharing credit with subordinates, without hogging it all, is the hallmark of a true leader. Such persons use “I” only to take responsibility for failure.

By this measure, none of the previous occupiers of the position of “Executive President” have served the nation properly, and has in truth, debased the position, big time. It takes three generations to breed a gentleman, and there are no shortcuts. Thus we will perhaps need lots of time, until a person of the required high caliber evolves. He/she should exhibit sufficient integrity and fidelity, and to behave in a manner to justify peoples’ faith, to properly discharge the enormous (many may consider “insufficient,” I don’t) power. The common view is that all of our Presidents have perverted the position and exceeded its authority.

A critical re-assessment of its suitability for us is needed. Suggestions for a return to the earlier position of a ceremonial president (or governor) have surfaced from time to time. Whether the idea of an “elected president” will serve, is moot.

The danger is that the extraordinary power of the position EP can lead to “delusions of grandeur”. More so, when the bluebottles around, even address him as “majesty/excellency” and songs are composed to glorify him. The silly bestowed title of “Maharajaneni,” led to claims of lineage to Dutugemunu or his Dasa Maha Yodayas. This is hilarious comedy. One even had the audacity to claim blood relationship to The Buddha. This is no longer merely funny. “In a democracy, your vote counts: in feudalism your count votes”.

All of the persons who have held the position of Executive President, have behaved like a Simian entrusted with a razor.

Much comment has been made of the academic insufficiency of a majority of present days Parliament. One doubts whether this is of much consequence, considering the ground reality.

The choice of candidates is with party seniors. Merit has low ranking in determining the choice. More depends, on caste, religion, gender, thuggery, financial capacity and potential to replenish party coffers. Consequently, the lawless, drug dealers, thieves, bootleggers, smugglers and other criminals are seen as the most useful to be used as ‘ground’ troops.

Thus, this first step in the electoral process is far less than democratic. Even the lowliest of professions outside call for minimum qualifications. Then an interview by persons of the required integrity and competence. Why cannot a suitable system, with the same objective be introduced? Surely, is it not an anomaly that even a conservancy laborer has to pass through a filtering process, while one with lesser qualifications can even be a minister or prime minister, or even The president. Some means should be sought to secure the best talent for the critical function of framing laws for the country.

Why do poor quality blokes and even criminals, get into an important body, like (Parliament) which supposedly determines laws to guide us? Why lament about absence of quality, when the process is so easily subverted at virtually every stage?

One obvious reason for crooks to crave for political position is because it protects (breach of privilege) any felon. The stark truth is that it positions them close to the nation’s “honey pot”, where the capacity to lap is all that matters. If one wants quality, then one must resolutely and fairly equate this with others truly toiling elsewhere. This is the only way of capturing quality. As it is, the dregs of society will continue to foul the atmosphere. Politics will continue to draw the worst, when the legitimate (and also criminal) rewards are so patently and obscenely high.

It cannot be denied that the present parliament, (and those before it), have been of a quality dismally below what the voters were promised, or led to expect. Performance, in fact has been low enough to justify a serious review of their salaries and benefits. There has to be better proportionality, in comparison with what prevails in the outside world.

Considering the real worth of parliamentarians, which is necessarily wide. I have suggested a possible way. The remuneration could be according to a multiplier. This could be one point five, two, five or even higher. This should be authenticated by their latest Income Tax Return. These should be submitted to The Speaker (or other authorized person). This is absolutely compulsory. Any in default, will not receive any payment or any privileges whatsoever, pending compliance.

While the requirement for a Declaration of Assets is already “on the books”, compliance is disgracefully low. It is useless if these declarations were to merely reside in somebody’s drawer, perhaps awaiting termites to get at them.

These declarations should be accessible for any legal or any other reasonable purpose. No such phenomena like the “ownerless Malwana mansion” should arise. Persons who provide information, leading to conviction for tax evasion, should be adequately rewarded. Any honest person purporting to be “serving the people,” should welcome such measures to rationalize state financial expenditure.

It is ironical that while the utmost secrecy is observed in the balloting process, parliament processes are not so. A party whip is a member with responsibility to enforce compliance with the decisions of the party hierarchy, on how all its member should vote.

This is a serious restriction of free choice (= conscience vote). The operation of the party whip, and the denial of a secret vote, surely makes a mockery of representative and transparent governance. This is not what democracy is expected to be.

This contradiction, also has other consequences. If all voting in parliament is subject to the operation of a party whip, and is thus pre-ordained, why debate? As Tarzie Vitachchi put it, “Communication without transformation, is merely gossip.” If so, of what use is the elaborate and costly pantomime called parliamentary debate? In fact, what use is there for a functioning parliament?

Why bother about educational qualifications and citizenship issues, when only double amputees, with no arm to raise, need to be disqualified? The electronic display, got no doubt at unconscionable cost, should cease to be of relevance. Except for exposing those cheats who took money for their vote but reneged.

Summary

Assuming that the call for abolishing the presidency and radical reform, as was the insistent and irrepressible cry of the aragalaya, which represented the nearest that had such massive support of the whole country, and thus demands to be heard, and cannot be ignored. This can only be achieved by a new constitution. It is in this context that the following changes are suggested :-

(i) The Presidency

Among the so-called “pillars of a democracy”, the President should belong to the “Legislative branch,” of which he may be the head. “The Executive” is what we now call “The Administration.” To “execute” is to do, perform, follow, achieve etc. This is precisely what government administration does. This branch also has the closest contact with the public, and thus most in need of reform. The judiciary may remain as it is. The legislature would continue with its duty to formulate laws, with the president as its head. This seems the most appropriate structure for effective governance. Recent events must show us that practices sanctified by long usage, can still be overlooked by an insensitive and deluded presidency.

Irrespective of whether he is nominated, elected or selected by parliament, The president should have no executive role, and be largely ceremonial. The use of the word “executive” in the title, has led to misinterpretation, and so should preferably be excluded from a new title. If so desired, he could be assigned to cover matters of a non- political nature. While positioned as the Head of the Legislature, he could for example, oversee such matters as climate change, renewable energy, recovery of damages arising from shipping disasters, seabed mineral resources, optimizing benefits from international interventions such as the carbon credits scheme, handling of radioactive waste, and others that may develop in the future. These are subjects beyond political diversity.

(II) The Cabinet

Kept to a minimum and strictly targeting operational efficiency, and not political expediency. There is need for review of state involvement, strictly in matters of personal choice. For example, religious affairs, sports and culture. Even the reformation of the medium of instruction in education by granting the choice to parents. The overwhelming cry would be for English.

(III) Nomination of candidates

The process of selecting candidates is by the hierarchy, as at present and where electors have no role. The present system has to change and conform to normal process. File application -> Curriculum Vitae -> Interview -> Selected Candidate. Meritocracy is of the essence.

(iv) The electoral process (polling)

The very large number of parties is confusing. This is aggravated by the need to pick three preferences. Further, the sequence of marking is new to voters. By the present rule of first marking the party favoured, (out of perhaps a few dozen on the list), and followed by the number of the preferred candidate, is open to significant error. The prescribed format of the ballot paper, is such that an error in step one distorts the preference seriously. The possibility of the preferred individual being not of the preferred party, presents a massive problem to the less sophisticated voter. The ballot paper, accommodating nearly a hundred parties, symbols and candidates’ names, (in three Languages) could result in a ballot paper the size of a bed sheet, and sufficient to baffle even the most sophisticated voter. With dozens of parties, and candidates (all in three languages), even the smartest of voters could be baffled.

The process of counting the ballots would be a nightmare. The presidential poll, may mercifully not be as difficult as the parliamentary.

(v) The product – the MP

The mere fact that a prisoner, convicted of murder, is brought from death row to be sworn in as an MP, is reason enough to discard the prevailing parliamentary culture. Further to this, how could a person who lost his own seat at an election, and sank his whole party into oblivion, enters as a nominated (?) MP, get selected as the PM and then becomes our President, is a laughable bit of nonsense. All this is supposed to be in accordance with the Constitution. Is there any need to such an aberration? One need say no more about such a silly document, which has also needed some 21 Amendments, and should be dumped in the nearest dustbin. We are also told to “honour” this rag of a constitution. What a load of BS!

An MP has alleged that more than half the cabinet are drug users. The alleged Number Two of the local drug Mafia is supposed to be a state minister! To what further depths can we descend?

There is hardly any indication that any (even of the few literates), read the reams of paper left on their tables, (all in all three languages). Can the cabinet, even it was of the highest stellar intellect, possibly take any thoughtful note of the hundreds of important issues referred to it?

A less than two- day week, a handy attendance fee, an absurdly subsidized Members’ restaurant, and near heavenly comforts, makes it utterly scandalous, that it still cannot draw sufficient for a miniscule quorum. At some time, even hell will become over-crowded.

As long as the party whip and open voting is compulsory, there is no purpose in elaborately symbolic discourse (all too often in filth, that is better restricted to a rowdy marketplace brawl). The National List is so abused beyond any vision or expectation. The current aberration of the RW case, makes further comment superfluous.

To what a state has our pathetic circus of a “Supreme Assembly,” debased and devalued itself.

I do not wish to proceed any further, about the evils and absurdity of our constitutional mess, not because I have not covered all of it comprehensively, but because of unwillingness to risk cardiac disorder, in dealing with such a pathetic reality.

One can only look forward to some relief, come 21 September 21 or will it be much of the same?

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Features

Complexities in global politics deepen as economic pressures intensify

Published

5 hours ago

2026/08/27

Sahan Weerasooriya

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham meets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv. (BBC)

The present offer by the UK to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the missile technology field in particular comes as ‘a stitch in time’ and the initiative is also likely to be appreciated considerably by democratic opinion world wide for the possible morale-boosting effect it would have on Ukraine. Besides continuous arms support, the conviction that the world’s frontline democracies are behind it would prove a huge plus in Ukraine’s eyes in its grinding fightback against the Russian invasion.

While continued US support for Ukraine could not be considered ‘a given’ any more, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s words during a recent visit to Kyiv that the UK would stand by Ukraine ‘for as long as it takes’ is the kind of assurance that Ukraine needs at present. For, the conflict in Ukraine is essentially a war of liberation conducted by the latter against an invader and deeply at issue here is the upholding of International Law and its foundational concepts, such as national sovereignty and a nation’s right to political self-determination. The world of democracy is of the firm view that the latter ideals cannot be compromised, come what may.

The UK has its work cut out in this connection. It would find it difficult to convince the Trump administration that it should staunchly stand by Ukraine but it could campaign vigorously with the rest of the West and the EU fold in particular to unflaggingly support the embattled and over-run country.

Ukraine has shown an impressive adeptness in using drone technology in particular against her enemy and has even manufactured her own hardware in this respect but using the relevant blueprints handed over by the UK for the manufacture of more sophisticated cruise missiles, for instance, may prove financially difficult, going forward. It is left to be seen whether the UK and the rest of the West who are with Ukraine will continue to be with her, considering their own rising financial constraints.

The latter impediments could only multiply in the future. Oil, gas and energy prices are on the rise and the latter costs are glaringly reflected in kitchens and meal tables the world over. As we go along consumer discontent would steadily intensify and governments, East and West, would need to figure out with considerable rigour and foresight how such disaffection could be ably managed. Failing which, in most democratic societies, the chances are that publics would be out on the streets demanding that their grievances be redressed forthwith.

These rising concerns are reflected in a recent move by some EU governments to consider imposing what is described as ‘a windfall tax’ on the profits specified major oil companies operating within their shores have made in the wake of the US-Israel war on Iran. The rationale apparently is to use such tax earnings to cushion the rising cost of living of their publics and bolster the respective countries’ social expenditure.

In a recent letter to the president of the EU Council the EU governments referred to said, among other things, while drawing attention to the ‘discontent that is growing over the rising cost of living’: ‘A common approach’ is needed that ‘ensures those who profit from the crisis contribute their share to reducing the burden on the general population.’ Meanwhile, Oxfam with reference to the above development is on record as calling for a ‘permanent windfall tax of at least 50% on profits exceeding a 10% return on investment.’

Such are the rising economic pressures on the majority of Western governments. The question to be posed is how consistent they would be in their assistance to Ukraine if they decide consensually to stand by her. The soaring cost of living in the West compels the conclusion that there could be no guarantee that Western assistance to Ukraine, particularly in the defense and security fields, would be of a longstanding kind.

Of particular concern would be the fact that the weapons systems on offer from the UK to Ukraine could be increasingly costly to manufacture going forward. Besides they would need to be manufactured and put into action without delay.

However, these considerations should in no way deflect Ukraine’s supporters from the principled policy stance of defending her to the extent possible. Because at issue is the defense of International Law and the democratic system of government from their enemies; fascism and authoritarian rule.

While during World Wars 1 and 2 the US was with the major democracies of the West, this time around with regard to Ukraine, the US has chosen to be at cross-purposes with them. For instance, in relation to tariff matters and defense expenditure, in the NATO context, the US is pursuing a hard line which puts it at polar opposites with the West. Thus it is no longer possible to talk unreservedly of a ‘Western democratic alliance’. Put plainly, the cause of democratic development has been weakened.

A measure of relief for the supporters of Ukraine in the West could come by way of the upcoming mid-term polls in the US. If the Democratic Party fares well in them the pressure would be on the Trump administration to defer to opposition opinion at home, accommodate the best interests of Ukraine in its West European policy and perhaps even work towards a diplomatic solution to the Ukraine crisis in cooperation with Russia. Accordingly, the Democratic Party would need to put the Trump administration on the defensive, so to speak.

Until such time Ukraine’s Western supporters have no choice but to remain committed to it, ensure its steadfast defense against the invasion and work judiciously towards keeping the economic pressures at home in check.

Interestingly, at the present juncture in international politics the US could be said to be more weak than strong. For example, it has to some extent been militarily humbled by Iran; so much so it is resorting to economic means to keep Iran in check.

In keeping with this strategy, the US has launched ‘a new big wave of anti-Iran economic sanctions’ at the time of writing, aimed at cutting Iran away from all its major income sources. Some of these relate to digital assets, technology, gold, aviation and shipping. The hoped for result is the complete severance of Iran from the US dollar system.

However, while the UK and EU have no choice but to adhere to their policy of backing Ukraine, going forward they would need to dialogue more closely with the US and ensure that it cooperates with them on outstanding questions, such as Ukraine and the strengthening of democracy. The well being of the world is served when the latter aim is pursued.

Features

“Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery”

Published

5 hours ago

2026/08/27

Sahan Weerasooriya

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya opening the event

OPA 39th Annual Conference calls for Sri Lanka to move Beyond Recovery towards Sustainable Transformation

The Orgnisation of Professional Associations (OPA) successfully concluded its 39th Annual Conference, held recently at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, under the theme “Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery”.

Held under the patronage of Jayantha Gallehewa, President of the OPA, with the leadership and guidance of Tisara De Silva, President-Elect and Chairman of the 39th Annual Conference, the Conference brought together leading professionals, academics, business leaders and representatives of the public and private sectors to deliberate on Sri Lanka’s next phase of national development.

The Inaugural Session, on August 2026, was graced by Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, as the Chief Guest; Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, as the Guest of Honour; and Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman of the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka, as the Keynote Speaker.

In her address, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasised that overcoming the economic crisis alone should not be Sri Lanka’s ultimate objective, stressing that recovery must serve as the foundation for a broader economic and institutional transformation necessary for sustainable national progress. Reflecting on the difficult period experienced by the country, the Prime Minister noted that Sri Lanka had faced significant economic, social and institutional challenges, which had weakened public confidence and created uncertainty about the country’s future.

She stressed that “recovery only provides the foundation” and that Sri Lanka can move forward sustainably only by using that foundation to bring about meaningful transformation.

The Prime Minister observed that the theme of the OPA’s 39th Annual Conference, “Envisioning Sri Lanka: Beyond Recovery,” aptly encapsulated these national aspirations. She emphasised that Sri Lanka’s objective should not merely be to return to the conditions that existed before the crisis, but to forge a stronger national foundation characterised by robust institutions, a resilient economy, high-quality public services and an enabling environment in which every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

She further underscored that Sri Lanka’s future development cannot be secured through economic growth and physical development alone. She emphasised that the effective mobilisation of the country’s knowledge, skills and professional expertise, is equally essential to achieving sustainable and inclusive national progress

The Technical Sessions held on 12 August 2026 brought together 19 distinguished experts and professionals representing academia, industry, banking and finance, public health, technology, management and business leadership. Their diverse expertise provided a multidisciplinary platform to examine the critical challenges, emerging opportunities and strategic choices that will shape Sri Lanka’s next phase of development, with particular emphasis on economic transformation, institutional strengthening, digitalisation, private-sector growth, human capital and sustainable development.

The deliberations were structured around four principal sub-themes: “Resilient Recovery and Sustainable Economic Development”; “Future Readiness: Innovation & Transformation”; “Policy for Impact: Advancing Equity, Sustainable Living, and National Well-Being”; and “Leadership, Governance and National Responsibility.”

Across these thematic areas, the sessions explored the structural reforms, institutional requirements and policy choices necessary to move Sri Lanka beyond economic stabilisation towards a more productive, competitive, resilient and inclusive economy. The discussions brought together diverse professional perspectives, enabling participants to examine national priorities through economic, technological, industrial, financial, social and governance lenses.

Particular emphasis was placed on the need to move beyond the diagnosis of problems towards pragmatic, evidence-based and implementable solutions. The deliberations recognised that sustainable national progress requires not only sound policies, but also effective institutions, professional competence, innovation, responsible leadership and the capacity to translate policy into tangible outcomes.

The sessions further underscored the importance of collaboration across sectors, recognising that Sri Lanka’s complex development challenges cannot be addressed in isolation. Stronger engagement among Government, private sector, professional associations, academia and civil society was identified as essential to fostering a coherent national response and ensuring that professional knowledge and expertise are effectively translated into policy and action.

Collectively, the Technical Sessions provided a substantive platform for knowledge exchange, critical reflection and forward-looking dialogue, reinforcing the OPA’s commitment to bringing the country’s professional expertise to bear on the task of building a resilient, innovative, equitable and prosperous Sri Lanka.

The OPA expressed its sincere appreciation to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, the Chief Guest; Andrew Patrick, British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Guest of Honour; and Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman of the Advocata Institute, Sri Lanka and Keynote Speaker, for their distinguished contributions to the Conference.

Much of what the 39th Annual Conference achieved would not have been possible without the leadership, commitment and generous contributions of Jayantha Gallehewa, President of the OPA; Tisara De Silva, President-Elect and Chairman of the 39th Annual Conference; Eng. Ravi Rupasinghe, General Secretary; Dharshana Wijemanne, Treasurer; Bhanu Wijayaratne, Convener & the Chairman of the Session Planning Committee of the 39th Annual Conference Committee, Past Presidents and Office Bearers; Presidents and representatives of Member Associations; members of the Executive Councils and General Forum; and the distinguished Session Chairmen, Resource Persons and professionals who shared their time, expertise and insights in pursuit of the Conference’s shared vision. The OPA remains immensely grateful to all those whose collective contributions enriched the 39th Annual Conference and strengthened its role as a meaningful platform for professional exchange, informed dialogue and national reflection.

Features

Nostalgia for Lankans in Toronto …

Published

5 hours ago

2026/08/27

Sahan Weerasooriya

‘Avurudu Musical Show 2027,’ a uniquely styled musical Avurudu celebration … Ceymphony Band style.

For Sri Lankans living 14,000 kilometres from home, the sound of home has never felt closer — and that’s thanks to one man and his band.

Since stepping into the spotlight, Gamini Hemalal and the Ceymphony Band have turned into the heartbeat of the Sri Lankan community in Toronto.

Their mission is simple: bring the music, bring the memories, bring the people together. And it’s working.

What turned out to be the talk-of-the-town was their intimate musical evening with Sri Lanka’s legendary crooner Sohan Weerasinghe.

Sohan Weerasinghe: Had
everyone on their feet at the
Angus Glen Golf Club, in
Toronto, Canada

It was a ‘full house’ long before the big date. Tickets vanished within days — demand was that overwhelming.

According to those who were there, it was a truly amazing evening. The hall was packed, the energy electric. Sohan didn’t just sing — he owned the stage.

With his velvet vocals, his charm, and that signature style, he had everyone on their feet. The ladies, especially, couldn’t get enough. No wonder they call him “The Ladies’ Man!”

One attendee summed it up perfectly:

“We had so much fun. It is truly a blessing to have our kids around us, enjoying these beautiful moments together. Thank you, Gamini Hemalal, for such a wonderful evening, with an amazing crowd and an incredible atmosphere. Your hard work and dedication truly made it a special night.

“We also need to say a big thank you to the Ceymphony Band for delivering such an outstanding performance. You all were absolutely amazing! Our entire family had a fantastic time, and we truly enjoyed every moment.

Ceymphony Band: Extremely popular in the scene in Toronto

“Wishing you all continued success. Keep up the amazing work, we can’t wait for the next.”

And the next is already on the cards: ‘Halloween Pissu Baila Party 2026,’ on Friday, 30th October, at the famous Angus Glen Golf Club.

Gamini promises a crazy night of baila, music, dancing and Halloween vibes with the Ceymphony Band. Action runs from 8:00 PM to 12:00 midnight, with plenty of prizes to be won.

Gamini Hemalal: Amazing work for the Sri Lankan community,
in Toronto, Canada

Gamini is also putting together a special event, connected with the 2027 Avurudu celebrations — ‘Avurudu Musical Show 2027,’ a uniquely styled musical Avurudu celebration … Ceymphony Band style.

It’s scheduled to be held on Saturday, 10th April, 2027, also at the Angus Glen Golf Club.

Through music, Gamini Hemalal and Ceymphony are doing what diaspora bands do best — they’re shrinking the distance between two worlds.

One baila beat at a time, one full house at a time, they’re making sure that even in Canada, Sri Lankans feel like home.

Yes, there is plenty of action, indeed, for the Sri Lankan community in Toronto, Canada.