Features

Colombians and the JVP: Puppetry a la the CIA

Published

1 year ago

2025/03/11

Sahan Weerasooriya

Rohana Wijeweera addressing a political rally

by Gamini Seneviratne

Our electors must be baffled by what those who call themselves “JVP” have been doing in the past few months in which they have enjoyed the right to exercise state power. One has to look not just at events here but to developments centered on shall we say NATO and its investments in politicians in the global South.

To begin to understand all that we need to go back to what is regarded as the beginning here – the insurrection of 1971. It has been portrayed as an armed uprising by ‘socialists’ / ‘communists’ who were either Russia-oriented ‘Stalinists’ or who, on waking up each morning, engaged in a ritual reading of Chairman Mao’s little Red Book.

And what indeed provoked that effort to acquire arms for the supposed revolution by raiding Police Stations (which were known to have some 202 or 303 rifles that were in firing order. In that exercise the government responded by sending in army volunteers who proved to be somewhat better equipped than the Police and even less disciplined in combat situations than they. Their overall commander, Rohana Wijeweera, alas, was captured before the action began: he had lain in wait where routine Police patrols were known to take place and had taken to his heels when they appeared. He was taken into custody (which provided him with safe harbour behind prison walls). In later years, Somawansa Amarasinghe, another ‘leader’ sought refuge overseas well in time.

Even more interesting than such detail was the fact that it was a revolt against a coalition of left / left of center political parties (SLFP, LSSP, Communist parties) that had scored a handsome electoral victory against the then and forever mish-mash of politikkas that are usually classified as a rightwing group, the UNP. That coalition had set in motion programmes to bring under State control or otherwise ‘socialising’ “the commanding heights of the economy”.

They had also outlawed South Vietnam, Israel and Taiwan that served not so much as outposts of the imperial ambitions of the US policy makers but served the market, notionally monitored by the Pentagon, for the weaponry of the arms manufacturers.

A Lankan government that does such outrageous things had to be toppled – in what has entered the literature as ‘regime change’. Relatively recent successes of such US ‘policy’ interventions are Ukraine (where ‘NATO’ removed the president elected by the people and thrust in their puppet cum mouthpiece), and the criminal assault on governance honoured in Pakistan by the vast majority of electors led by Imran Khan, the most honourable and competent figure by far in all of South Asia

And, all the while that fountain of Democracy, Human Rights and other such laudables as International Law, yes, the USA, was continuing to fund research organisations including Universities to produce ever more lethal weaponry for use against the people, all non-human of course, of Asia, Africa, Latin America and the ‘Middle East’.

All that has of course been a continuation of the ‘Manhattan Project’ that had made it possible for “America” to destroy Hiroshima & Nagasaki when Japan was on the cusp of surrendering to the Russian forces that were already across the waters in Manchuria and the northern islands of Japan.

There’s a clear difference though in terms of ‘American’ priorities: the scale of investment on war has been blown up from millions of dollars to billions and on to trillions. How does it fund such a “growth” in “investment”? Besides making health care and education virtually unaffordable, it has worked on expanding a landscape of homelessness while its investment in prisons, in arming Police to enable them to Keep the Peace and weaving garlands to honour the National Rifle Association (NRA).

But regardless of all such efforts we should never lose sight of the investment that underpins them all: the manufacture and dissemination of lies: you could call them fabrications or spin or, as is today the preferred characterization, ‘media bias’ (which is also sought to be sanitised as ‘double-standards’ and ‘hypocrisy’). The investments on all that might, for all we know, be in $$ billion in their uppermost range.

And it has become impossible to overlook the investment in politicians from the sub-State level to Congress and the White House. To all of which we must add what common superstition used to say was Unthinkable: the Judiciary.

It should be noted too that such as Soththi Upali should not be regarded as architects of a new political culture. The association/camaraderie between politicians and members of the underworld has a long history in most parts of a world that is said to thirst for democracy.

It should baffle nobody that the trial of the ‘socialists’ bent on regime change in 1971 was attended every day by Mr. R Premadasa. Or, that Wijeweera’s last request to his captors was that he be taken before the then power-wielder, Premadasa.

Now, we see in the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna or “NPP’ (or, in an attempt at a more sophisticated try at misleading them, “Malimava” or ‘the Compass’) what these supposed ‘socialists’ really are or wish to see for the country or for themselves in their lifetime.

The raggers at places of higher education target the brighter entrants to them in a scenario that led them, ab initio, to murder such beneficiaries of the people as, say, Dr. Rex de Costa, (way back in 1971 up in Deniyaya).

It should come as no surprise then that the objectives that have been fed to the JVP” has required them to support raggers and to focus on damaging its own leaders such as Weerawansa, who show signs of helping the country and combating the forces led by the CIA.

When, themselves, in a position of power, those blessed by them have demonstrated just whom they represent. By way of example one would have to examine what, as Minister of Agriculture, etc., AKD actually did twenty years ago. The restoration of 10,000 small tanks was touted by the JVP as the foundation for the redevelopment of an agrarian culture: AKD never pursued that but quite recently it was proclaimed that he had the distinction of ‘cleaning up’ the Kandy Lake (the good-to-see and walk around bit of water that tourists love). There could be no clearer example than that of the cynicism that envelops their ‘thinking’.

The hand of ‘the CIA’ has been long visible on many fronts. And in that the support of the IMF has always been crucial to the project of destabilisation. One might think that it all began with JRJ’s enabling of corruption, but then one comes with examples from much earlier. J’s drive post 1977 was preceded by, say, the battle for the Freedom of the Press (so vital for the survival of a fascist regime) in 1964 that was greased by a hand-out of 20,000 rupees each to the MPs who crossed the floor and of much more to C.P .de Silva, who led that walk. That operation was orchestrated by Esmond Wickremasinghe.

That such funding has always tended to be the needful back-stop of politics is not disputed but ‘regime change’ requires much stronger instruments of shall we say ‘investment’ in which the IMF plays a commanding role. Much has been the praise bestowed on Dr. Manmohan Singh recently to mark his passing; what I recall is Dr. Gamani Corea (Chairman of the South Commission when Dr. Singh was its Secretary) telling me that he had asked Dr. Singh what he was up to as the Finance Minister of India and that Dr. S had dodged giving him an answer: well, part of the IMF package that Manmohan shoved on India was a targeted explosion of corruption within the government. Your readers would not require you to quote examples for them of what’s been going on here.

And, nowadays the CIA in the form of the US Ambassador, has shown its hand yet again: Ms. Chung, whose role in inducting an unabashed Colombian, into Parliament via the JVP has been quite obvious, has chosen to go public with their support for the unabashed co-leader of the corrupt strand of the Rajapaksas.

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Features

Complexities in global politics deepen as economic pressures intensify

Published

9 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

9 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

9 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.