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Home » ColumnsAluth Avurudu with the Rajapaksas: No show by TV channels this time
One of the most notable changes in the Avurudu programme lineup of state television channels this year was the absence of a live telecast from “Carlton House” in Tangalle, the private residence of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa. Usually, most of the Rajapaksa family members are present during the traditional Avurudu celebrations with a whole host [...]
Do you hear the people sing?
My dear friends at Galle Face, It wouldn’t be right if I didn’t write to you this week. The entire nation is watching what is happening at Galle Face. From what we have seen so far, the vast majority support your cause and admire you for the struggle – the ‘aragalaya’ as you like to [...]
Next week’s Parliamentary deliberations critical to resolve political crisis
As the youth protests at Galle Face enter the second week, what happens in Parliament in the coming days will be critical and will determine how soon the misery of the people will come to an end. Invariably and inevitably the thoughts of the public will go in the direction of who is responsible for [...]
Political stability crucial for economic recovery
People have spoken loud and clear. They want the President and the Government to go. The country is in a political crisis. It is time for an all-party national Government to be formed. Yet there are no signs of such a positive political development. We are a people who have united to oppose but oppose [...]
Sri Lanka’s constitution ‘occupies’ the street, as people cheer
As ominous lines of shrouded police trucks lined up near Colombo’s Galle Face Green on Saturday April 16th 2022 are removed amidst Sri Lankans calling for an end to catastrophic political leadership resulting in a slide to bankruptcy, this is perhaps the most critical moment of this nation in post-independence history. The Government is taking [...]
Bells toll for the Rajapaksas
If any compelling reason has to be found to ask the President to resign, the nation’s bankruptcy will do. Tuesday’s shock announcement by the Central Bank Governor that Lanka will renege on her international USD 51 billion and is bankrupt, hammered the last nail home and sealed the fate of the President and that of [...]
Arrogance and ignorance that crippled a nation
Who would have thought that one would live to see the day when two of Sri Lanka’s biggest national festivals would be celebrated in such unexpected ways at an unexpected place called Galle Face Green, preceded by a religious event of much significance to the Muslim community. Though an Easter Sunday service may not be [...]
President ready with plan of action, once he has parliament majority
New cabinet with more young faces likely tomorrow; axe on two ministers facing corruption allegations; crackdown on protesters also on the cards Sirisena-led 42 independents present formula for new stable national government, with Prime Minister being a technocrat appointed through national list President rejects the proposals; insists Mahinda should be Premier whatever the government China [...]
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