A new President has been elected in Sri Lanka. Many view this as a hopeful sign. Indeed there are signs of improvement. That is not to be denied. Press freedom restrictions have been lifted. Democratic reforms are in process. All of this is undeniably good. But Tamils must not be complacent and assume that their position is secure. They must be vigilant in campaigning for a greater voice in government affairs. Ruling parties change, but the government structure and the office of President remains the same. The Sinhalese have dominated Sri Lankan governmental affairs since independence. Though political parties change hands, the infrastructure unfortunately has not. The government, military, judiciary and ministries are still top heavy with Sinhalese representation. The future holds hope, but only if Tamils seize the opportunity before them. Sri Lanka has two options: Either the government makes way for greater Tamil participation in government affairs at all levels or a power sharing arrangement must be adopted along the lines of the Canadian Federalist model, allowing for Tamil self-rule as a Nation within a Nation.
Posted on: Wed, 14 Jan 2015 07:01:02 +0000
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