Opinion

Need for apolitical think tank

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Mr President, I read a letter by a regular contributor to the media one G. A. D. Sirimal, and thought of adding my views on a matter of great public concern today.  I have learnt that Sirimal is a retired senior public servant with an impeccable record, and possess a wealth of experience to offer, if such types are welcome to guide the present day POLITICAL SERVICE. 

He has touched on the LRT fiasco. A light train system, a long felt need, was initiated by an educated Minister of the previous regime. The full details of the cost are now in the public domain. I recall reading a letter where it was said that to this day that the Japanese venerate the late JRJ, and that they had not failed to commemorate his birthday by placing flowers at his statue this year too. I guess being a Buddhist country their leaders live within the Dhamma, unlike ours who only use religion to advance themselves.

All Japanese-funded projects have stood the test of time and in the field of engineering covering all segments, which include railways too, they possess a good record.

In the not-too-distant past, the country faced a major disaster where a contract awarded to Japan was cancelled by a powerful politician and later given to Iran. It was for diverting the Uma Oya to the South through the Uva province.  Midway, the project experienced many issues where over 7,000 homes were damaged due to tunneling, and the cost overrun phenomenal. It is common knowledge that we are in one mess financially due to wrong political decisions.

I commend Sirimal for his forthright comment that the President is surrounded by self-seeking officers and add that there are also politicians among them with ulterior motives. It is abundantly clear that those around you are politicians and officials with vested interests.

When John F Kennedy assumed office, it was said that one of his first tasks had been to call for the establishment of a think tank where 10 men/women of impeccable character, and apolitical to constitute that. His specific request was that they should challenge every decision of his and indicate the reasons. Mr. President you should do likewise.

 

LEONARD NANAYAKKARA

Colombo

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