Winning The Presidential And Losing The Parliamentary?
By S. Sivathasan -January 28, 2015
S. Sivathasan
Victory with Some Ease
The Ancien Regime (Rajapaksa Government) had become insufferable. An aggrieved populace incensed at mis-governance thirsted for change. In just nine years, antagonism was so strong that they threw it out with a vengeance. A well-knit opposition collective offered a credible alternative. Parties established for long, together with leaders having credentials thrust themselves forward. For once a well formed programme sought people’s endorsement. It had a timeline of a mere 100 days. The time is now for delivery and expeditiously at that.
To the New Regime, winning the battles and eventually the war seems the compulsion. When the space available for victory on all fronts is hardly 80 more days, is there a sequential option. No, they have to be fought and won apace. In a context of troubling choice, how can expectations be met? Among pledges held out, some will be critically watched. Yet others anxiously awaited. Voter response will determine return to life after the interim term.
Life Threatening Dangers
1. Maithripala’s majority over Rajapakse was a flimsy 3.7%. In 7 Presidential elections, only 1 was lower at 1.86%. Others ranged from 5.48% to 26.37%. To stand on firm ground for parliamentary elections, 3.7% % has to be trebled. For this an year’s work has to be done in 3 months. Else parliamentary elections have to be held after 1 year.
2. The 25 point plan in 100 days is a big bite with much to chew. It envisages cleansing of governance, creation of fresh institutions, Appointment of independent commissions, reduction in taxes, raising of salaries and rationalizing of parliamentary representation. These are among the more salient.
3. Introducing the Right to Information Bill in February, passing it as an Act in one month and displaying the benefits in the next. Failure will dissipate confidence.
4. Appointment of Special Commissions by February 5, to investigate corruption. Nation’s estimation is that a month from January 10, was enough for prima facie proof against billionaire fraudsters, to be in place. To have announced a flight cordon on election night and yet to have allowed suspects to give the slip and slither away is an act of omission.
5. Most important is the abolition of the Executive Presidential System. Replacement is with a Cabinet of Ministers responsible to Parliament. Process was to begin on 21st January. Progress report gives no indication of commencing action.Read More
