Plus

Plus

To vote or not to vote?
What’s it going to be this time around?
By Tinker-Bell
Hear ye, hear ye, all ye who belong to the younger generation of the voting populace. It is that important time once again to have a look at our fine selection of nominees, and make that tough decision as to who next should have a hand in shaping our futures! This is a crucial time for all us franchise holders, a grave moment even. It is of paramount importance that we choose wisely.

We, the youth, the future, the new (or is it the next?) generation are being given the opportunity to take matters into our own hands, and choose the trajectory of our futures. Be it to change things, or to try and make amendments to policies or laws in existence, now is the moment of truth. It's time to place our every ounce of faith and confidence in a team of patriotic, selfless, civic minded true Sri Lankans, who will champion our causes (whatever they might be).

So what's on offer?
On the one hand we have a party which has been either in or out of the limelight over the years, but which has thus far failed to make much of an impact. There have been accusations made against them regarding a series of assassinations. Many public figures were 'gotten rid of' and that we know.

There were speculations that during the blood bath of 1983 the ruling party sat back whilst gangs of murderers took to the streets, systematically trying to eliminate a race. Peace was restored and a curfew implemented after killings took place. But, after that, other things happened. 'Batalanda' comes to mind.

On the other hand we have a joint venture of two parties combined. Two heads are better than one you'd think.

One faction of this alliance was formerly referred to as insurgents. Back in the 70s allegations of murder, rebellion and theft were thrown their way. They had supposedly come close to overthrowing the government and had virtually held the country at gunpoint. At this time imports were banned, foreign aid discontinued, food rationed and standing in long queues was the order of the day. But, as most of us were toddlers or not even thought of at this time, it would be unfair to claim it was a part of our pasts. Leopards can change their spots.

The other faction of the party is headed by our present head of state. One thing we can learn here is to forgive and forget. Sixteen years ago it was assumed that the insurgent party referred to above had assassinated the spouse of the current head of state. Her joining forces with the murderers shows the true sense of forgiveness and the non-vengeful attitude of our head. An apt portrayal of the average Lankan's easygoing nature, methinks.

Then we have the clergy turned politicians. Most major decisions made by our leaders are in accordance with the wishes of the top rung of the buddhist clergy. So why is there a need for them to get on the political bandwagon?

Overall, the political culture of our country must be considered. One, because it's so novel and two, because it's probably the only thing that both parties have in common. Where should I start?

Well for starters let's look at how insignificant the average person’s vote is. It's not about what the people want anymore, it's about which party has more thugs or who gets to the ballot boxes the fastest. We also have the privilege of having a record number of election violence occurrences each year.

What's ironic is how the poor man is always the one at the butt end of the situation. They're the ones intimidated, terrorised, robbed, murdered. They are supposedly the most essential component of a democracy.

So fellow young voters, what's it going to be? Who of these fine parties deserve your vote or are they even worth your vote? Tough call, I must say. Is there really any choice or is it more of a 'Hobson's Choice' we're left with?

Back to Plus