True peace, true freedom, so say the stars

As Sri Lanka celebrates six decades of self governance, the country appears to have reached a turning point, a sort of crossroads if you will. This year (2008) will prove to be a decisive one for the country. According to astrologers Wimalasiri Sellaperuma and Ahungalle Dharmasiri de Silva, Sri Lanka’s sign is Aquarius, the water-bearer. As of February 4, 1948 (when Ceylon gained Independence from the British) it is universally agreed among astrologers that Aquarius is the country’s official zodiac sign.

So, what lies ahead? Mr. Sellaperuma starts with a bang. “This year, some time between August 2 and 25, the LTTE is going to suffer a major setback on the war front, with the organization losing most of its leaders. The war will most likely be over by the end of the year,” he says.

Elaborating on this somewhat bold prediction Mr. Sellaperuma says that according to the country’s horoscope, any forces that actively work against the interests of the state, including LTTE heavyweights, will be mercilessly cold shouldered by the planets, and Saturn, in particular, indicates they will be in for a hard time.

Mr. de Silva agrees. He too says that according to the various planetary movements associated with the country’s horoscope it is likely that the LTTE will be defeated by the government forces before the year ends.“Peace will dawn as this year comes to a close and the people will begin to enjoy true freedom before next year’s Independence Day celebrations are held,” he says.

Another front that Sri Lanka is going to excel in 2008, according to the stars, is international relations. “The very nations that used to antagonise Sri Lanka will eat their words and assist us in every way possible,” says Mr. Sellaperuma. Mr. de Silva predicts that a lot of the misunderstandings about the situation in the country will be cleared soon.“Sri Lanka will be getting a lot of aid from foreign countries that are now being critical of its conduct; even military aid,” says Mr. de Silva.

On the economic front the two astrologers have slightly contradictory views. Mr. de Silva believes that the burdens faced by the public will be relatively eased as the year progresses while Mr. Sellaperuma is of the view that the cost of living will continue to rise.

The country will come out stronger than ever in the year ahead, says Mr. de Silva as tomorrow the moon and Jupiter will be in the first house, this, supposedly, auguring good things to come.