The Sunday Times Sri Lanka

Columns

Political Column

In the large screen, visuals bared men and women, some young and the others old, gyrating aimlessly. The music for this vulgar display was Sri Lanka's national anthem. The occasion was the annual sessions of the United National Party (UNP) at Siri Kotha in Kotte last Sunday.

5th Column

The beginning of an era of peace

“Thaatha,” Bindu Udagedera asked, “what will happen to the Greens now?”
“Why, Bindu, they will continue to remain in the opposition…” Bindu’s father Percy explained.
“But thaaththa,” Bindu said, “they held this special meeting last week and now they are saying all their problems are over…”

The Economic Analysis

Shortfalls in foreign investment and aid for reconstruction

Foreign investments and aid to reconstruct the North and East and resettle displaced persons are important for the country’s economic development. The expectations of large inflows of foreign investment after the ending of the war do not appear to have materialized to the extent that was expected.

Lobby

Not Issued with this week

Focus on Rights

Not Issued with this week

Talk at the Cafe Spectator

Batik Silva breathes fire

Even if he was forgiven for tying a Samurdhi animator to a tree, Public Co-ordination and Public Affairs Minister Mervyn Silva, learnt what he did this time turned out to be unpardonable. He attended last Wednesday night's weekly Cabinet meeting wearing a short-sleeved batik shirt with a floral design.

Double Take

Mrs. Anumaana unravels the coconut crisis with “LankaLeaks”

With the festive season round the corner and food prices going through the roof Mrs. Anumaana has been pounding the pavement in search of a coconut priced at less than 50 rupees. Needless to say her efforts proved futile. Sunil who has an explanation for everything, as usual had an explanation for the skyrocketing coconut prices. He says he has it from an irrefutable source.

Column By Gomin Dayasiri

What should the UNP do next?

Aparty that was conferred three consecutive terms of presidential power and enjoyed a 5/6th majority in parliament legitimately for six years and illegitimately for another six years (without holding a general election) during that period, finds itself denied a victory at four consecutive presidential elections and unable to field a candidate, at the last. It is guaranteed to be out of office for 23 years. Something is seriously wrong somewhere if this is the scorecard.