Features

Needed jab; hasty passing of a bill; folly of seeing strictly forbidden grass greener than home turf

Published

5 years ago

2021/05/21

Cassandra started her last Friday’s (May 14) article with a wail. She cried, desperation overcoming her: “Manna from the skies and the drop of water to a man dying of thirst is for most now a jab in the upper arm which will hopefully keep at bay dreaded omnipotent, omnipresent Covid-19 virus.” Even a week after the wailing complaint was voiced, we are no closer to getting the second dose of A Z vaccine. Rumours float that Rosy got 600,000 doses and to register with her and get the shot. Not Cass to do so; never have jumped a queue. That must be a false claim, though nothing in Free Sri Lanka is impossible.

Colombo Port City draft Bill

Then greater perturbation overwhelmed us so that often, Cass did shiver, actually quiver with fear, more so hearing Attorneys-at-Law Srinath Perera PC, and Harshana Nanayakkara express fears in their MTV 1 Newsline interview with TV journo Sharman Benedict. With no mincing of words, they forecast doom and black gloom if the Port City Bill is passed as it is intended to be – easily and with the necessary majority, piloted as it is through Parliament with only two days of debate sandwiched between lockdowns during the height of the C19 third wave. The main immediate aim of the government seems to be, and has been said to be by very many, the rapid passing of the Colombo Port City Bill. The plight of the people of the country and their falling prey to C19 and many dying is of little concern. Greater concern is to pass the Bill and make it Law – the rules governing the Port City. For whose benefit, we ask. Certainly not ours, since more important matters are pending. So we are being magnanimous to a nation known for its economic colonisation.

A hell of a lot of word-steam rose and will rise within the House by the Diyawanna. But as expected and feared by us who are neutral minded politically, the Bill will be passed with a majority. The SC has ruled wisely and the government promises amendments. But as Att.-at-Law Srinath Perera pronounced loud and clear on Tuesday night, it was a 99-year period for which this country was to be dictated to by China.

It was salutary to hear what the Leader of the Opposition had to say when interviewed by MTV 1 on its Newsline Programme on Monday May 17, and echoed by Dr Harsha de Silva as a panel member of the same channel’s Face the Nation starting at 9.30 that very night. The Opposition approves the Port City and hopes it will be a huge economic boon to the country drawing in foreign investment; giving jobs to locals; introducing new techniques mostly electronic; and generally giving a lift to the country’s woeful economic condition. What do they object to? The speedy passage of the Bill through Parliament, and some articles in the drawn-up rules governing the Port City which are sure to be deleterious to Sri Lanka and solely beneficial to the foreign countries – China – which seems to be given carte blanche to do as they like on Sri Lankan property. Are we selling off our independence and sovereignty for a jar of pottage?

Is it any wonder that Srinath Perera PC, ending the discussion on Newsline begged and pleaded with the 225 MPs to vote with loyalty to the country first and foremost in thought and not consider stars gained from the Big Bugs of SLPP or black marks and perchance money that is a-coming for an aye. (Cass writes this on Wednesday 19 morning, so like you she will watch the voting results on Friday.)

An intriguing side show occurred in Parliament on Tuesday May 18. Leader of the Opp asked some salient questions from the Minister of Health. She got into a twist (Cass nearly gave here a phrase used by her as a schoolgirl to depict a dilemma – getting your knickers in a twist!). Well, Pavitradevi was flustered plus angry. She said she could not answer the qs then. Sajith Premadasa was very polite but up pops S B Dissanayake, quaking with rage, his cheeks a-quiver and asks why the fair lady (Cass’ words) is being badgered. And who seconds him? Rohitha Abeywardena from Kalutara whose sobriquet is well known. Cass said the incident was intriguing. There was the ex Sports Minister accused of harassment by Susie girl some months after her marvelous coming third and promoted higher at the Athens Olympics. Chivalrous Sir Galahad on May 19, 2021, though previously accused of passing back and forth alongside the Col 7 sports stadium while Susie practiced her sprint!!

Are people made ill to fill the thousands of new beds?

Cass, for one, laughs outright at the boast of some; Cass believes it was the Minster of Health who said that every C19 patient would have a bed and needed equipment in a hospital setting. The Minister of Sports and Youth did not sound the boast verbally but was inspecting with obvious pride the masses of beds prepared in Seeduwa and somewhere else. The army and apprentices worked around the clock constructing the building and beds; thus Cass would have liked to see the head of the workmen who got this marvelous job done, and not the young Minister’s face since this does not come under either his sports or youth mandates, and we see his handsome mug more than enough, nowadays. Also, so easy for him to helicopter inspect, accompanied by a host of persons and TV crew.

What would have been much more prideful and boasted as success would have been the curbing of infection and rise of number of patients by taking timely action of mass inoculation and curbing drastically movement of persons starting even before the Avurudhu season. It’s always a case of hanging onto the galloping horse’s tail as the unguarded stable door opens, losing the battle of stopping the horse in his tracks. At the open door of the now bare stable are the powerful, showing surprise the horse bolted away.

We will appreciate the government’s efforts when the rise of the third wave is curbed and deaths and illness prevented, since that will be their responsibility, listening to medical advice and bringing in cooperation and collaboration of all in this massive fight. But the Brother heading the Covid Prevention task force, all the institutions and government departments concerned with the economy of the country, took a leaf from the horse that bolted and departed to his adopted country at the very height of the crisis. We Ordinaries are left floundering and wondering, while quacking with fear.

Death in Japan: tragic yet …

The New York Times

carried an article on May 18 titled Japan is shaken after a detainee, wasting away, dies alone in her cell by Ben Dooley and Hisako Ueno.

On March 6, at the age of 33, Wishma Rathnayake died while held in a detention centre in Nagoya. We are greatly saddened and grieve for her family but there are Buts to the tragedy. I quote the article: “Her case has become a source of outrage for critics of Japan’s immigration system, who say that Ms. Rathnayake was the victim of an opaque and capricious bureaucracy that has nearly unchecked power over foreigners who run afoul of it.”

The above is true but can you blame Japan for its strict rules over immigration while countries that were more tolerant suffer later for their mercy in letting in immigrants?

Wishma seems to have gone legally to Japan to study Japanese hoping to be a teacher of English over there. While at ‘school’ learning Japanese, she befriended a co-student – Sri Lankan – and they disappeared, detailed the article. Later, she reported to the police of his harassment of her. It was then noted she was overstaying her visa. She was promptly detained at the Nagoya centre. She got off food and weakened in body as her mind succumbed to depression. Doctors saw her but did not move her to hospital due to the fear she was faking her illness. She died through not being able to take food.

The ‘cell’ she was held in as shown in photographs in the NYT article was luxurious to me – a small flatlet – and there were Japanese NGOs visiting and befriending her.

Cass’ sorrow is genuine and her sympathies to the family sincere. However, as the dots in the subtitle denote, Wishma was in the wrong: knowing full well consequences of overstaying her visa-given term. Also, one cannot deny that the hard line taken by the Japanese authorities is known and especially by visitors. Thus Japan is justified in being strict in these times of immigration to favourable countries being the dream of many, to be achieved by any means. Those who visit foreign countries must know the rules of the host country and abide by them. The grass may be greener over there but better your own turf, parched though it be.

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Features

Complexities in global politics deepen as economic pressures intensify

Published

11 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

12 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

12 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.