Reflecting on a farcical episode not to be repeated we hope
There is an utmost necessity to curb this trend of an innumerable number of candidates contesting the presidential election. Presently, according to the constitution, any Sri Lankan citizen can apply to contest the election and there is no eligibility criterion stipulated for such person to contest. But, definitely there should be an end to this and such restriction should come into force for the next presidential election scheduled for 2024 unless some prudent steps are taken by a dignified president to abolish this Executive Presidency.
When one considers the number of contestants who are contesting, it is quite obvious that they know, they will never be elected to the presidency and they don’t have a ghost of a chance of getting elected. Then, why do these people clamour of this post - it is nothing but to be prominent and for their future prosperity. Just analyse the expenditure involved under these circumstances. Isn’t it a disgraceful act on their part? Foreigners must be laughing their sides out, when they see the number who are aspiring for this top post.
Now that the elections are over, Gotabaya Rajapaksa has been elected as the 7th Executive President of Sri Lanka by an overwhelming voter percentage. This clearly shows the verdict of the people. He has already taken some very prudent steps at the very inception. He has instructed not to exhibit his photograph in any government office and advised the ministers as well as the state sector officials, to cut down all unwanted expenses.
Another encouraging move is to minimize the number of escort vehicles when ministers travel about, to three, including his own escort motorcade. Economic re-structuring is very vital for the future prosperity of the country and all of us expect the President to maintain strict discipline among all citizens including the MPs of Parliament and govt. officials in financial matters. I request him to be an exemplary leader by his own acts and to be someone like the new Ukranian President Volodymyv Zelensky who was elected last year and pledges to be honest and not to be dictated by any foreign leader and by politicians for petty affilations. Furthermore, Mr.President, please do not be guided by sycophants who will definitely lead you to disaster, like what happened to some of the predecessors, but take firm viable decisons on your own.
The writer being an octogenarian, requests you to adhere to your election pledges and to be an honourable
President of Sri Lanka. Wish you the very best of luck Sir, during your tenure as President.
Lionel Caldera Battaramulla