NORTHERN PROVINCE VOTERS FOCUS ON DEVELOPMENT GLOBAL TOURISM RS. 80.00 PAGES 64 / SECTIONS 7 VOL. 02 – NO. 44 SUNDAY, JULY 26, 2020 CAMPAIGN CARETAKER CABINET SPECIAL A TALE CONCLUDES DUTIES; PRICE OF TWO ON HOLD FINAL PUSH FOR POLLS Rs. 60.00 GOVTS. »SEE BUSINESS PAGE 1 »SEE PAGES 8 & 9 »SEE PAGE 4 »SEE PAGES 6 & 7

For verified information on the GENERAL PREVENTIVE GUIDELINES COVID-19 LOCAL CASES COVID-19 CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any of the IN THE WORLD following authorities ACTIVE CASES TOTAL CASES 1999 TOTAL CASES Health Promotion Bureau 2,764 Suwasariya Quarantine Unit 0112 112 705 15,716,043 Ambulance Service Epidemiology Unit 0112 695 112 DEATHS RECOVERED Govt. coronavirus hotline 0113071073 Wash hands with soap Wear a commercially Maintain a minimum Use gloves when shopping, Use traditional Sri Lankan Always wear a mask, avoid DEATHS RECOVERD 1990 for 40-60 seconds, or rub available mask/cloth mask distance of 1 metre using public transport, etc. greeting at all times crowded vehicles, maintain PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES hands with alcohol-based or a surgical mask if showing from others, especially in and discard into a lidded instead of handshaking, distance, and wash hands 11 2,094 637,618 9,588,911 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 handrub for 20-30 seconds respiratory symptoms public places bin lined with a bag hugging, and/or kissing before and after travelling 659 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 4.00 P.M. ON 24 JULY 2020 MORAGOLLA HYDROPOWER PROJECT Rs. 3.5 b loss from delay z Rs. 5 m loss per day z Environmental clearance, previous Govt. blamed

BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA According to Ceylon Electricity the CEB Chairman stressed that the located in Ulapane in the Kandy District at Weliganga and have five spillways, with Board (CEB) Chairman Eng. Vijitha delay was mainly due to the delay in of the Central Province. Preliminary the powerhouse located approximately The Government has incurred an estimated loss of Rs. 3.5 billion Herath, as a result of the delay, the obtaining environmental clearance for assessments and feasibility studies 500 m (1,600 ft.) from the tailrace over the past two years on account of a delay in implementing Government has been incurring an the project and the lack of commitment of the hydroelectric dam and power discharge of the Kotmale Power Station. the Moragolla Hydropower Project, which is the final large-scale opportunity loss of around Rs. 5 million of the previous Government to expedite station began in 2012 with an estimated The Mahaweli River is the largest river hydropower project to be built on the Mahaweli River, The Sunday per day for the past two years. the project. commissioning date in 2021. The dam is basin and the longest river in Sri Lanka. Morning learnt. Speaking to The Sunday Morning, The Moragolla Hydropower Project is planned to impound the Mahaweli River Contd. on page 2 Not so fast! COMMITTEE TO STREAMLINE STATE BANKS Child abuse UK to take Yet to be appointed cases soar BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA “The full committee has not been appointed yet, but should be in the past 5,000 The committee to streamline coming days,” Central Bank of Sri back waste the state banking sector is yet to Lanka (CBSL) Governor Prof. W.D. BY SARAH HANNAN be appointed, The Sunday Lakshman said. Morning learnt. Contd. on page 2 As of mid-July, the number of recorded child abuse cases reached 5,242 while containers sexual abuse cases of women stood at The UK’s Environmental According to the 1,642, the Police Media Division reported. Agency has agreed to CEJ Chairman, when During a parliamentary session held accept the controversial the case was taken up in early January, it was revealed that for waste containers exported last Thursday (23), the the first 15 days of 2020, the number of to Sri Lanka by a UK Attorney General (AG) child abuse cases had been at 54. company, according to had informed the Court Contd. on page 2 Centre for Environmental of Appeal that the UK Justice (CEJ) Chairman Government is in the Attorney-at-Law process of conducting VEHICLE IMPORT BAN Ravindranath Dabare. an inquiry on the UK The waste containers company that exported would be accepted once waste material in freight Importers the ongoing inquiry against containers to Sri Lanka, the UK company that violating the UK’s ask for date exported the containers environment and health is completed, he told The regulations. of relaxation Sunday Morning. Contd. on page 2 The Vehicle Importers Association of Sri Lanka (VIASL) urged the Government to The Army last Friday (24) captured the Covid-19-positive POINT SYSTEM FOR DRIVING LICENSE come up with a fixed plan detailing the exact inmate of the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Centre dates as to when the complete motor vehicle who escaped the National Institute of Infectious Diseases importation ban would be lifted. (IDH) while receiving treatment earlier on the same day Delayed due to “Until such time, imports should be allowed for vehicles with letters of credit already established, as our members have 12 waste reception system upgrade committed to purchasing those units,” said VIASL Secretary Arosha Rodrigo. A system upgrade is “We need to establish a Contd. on page 2 licenses on hold required to implement the proper method on how the The Marine Environment in ship waste disposal point system on driving demerits would be awarded ESTATE WORKERS’ WAGES Protection Authority activities in Sri Lanka, due licenses and therefore, the from each police precinct. (MEPA) has kept on to the failure to adhere to implementation of the system Therefore, an update is hold the waste reception the necessary rules and would require additional time, needed in this regard to Outgrower licenses of around 12 regulations. Police Media Spokesman implement the point system private companies engaged Contd. on page 2 SSP Jaliya Senaratne told for driving licenses,” he said. The Sunday Morning. Contd. on page 2 model CAMPAIGN HEALTH VIOLATIONS considered Three districts in great danger The Government and the private sector are looking at introducing an “outgrower model” The Centre for Monitoring Election CMEV, given the non-adherence to health guideline violations, and its latest field for the plantation sector in response to demands Violence (CMEV) has mapped out guidelines by candidates as well as their visit report (as of 15 July) indicated made by trade unions for a wage hike. the Kurunegala, Nuwara Eliya, and supporters along their campaign trails. that over 90% of the country’s districts “We are talking on broader terms with the Trincomalee Districts as having the The report is based on a number of are estimated to have more than a 60% plantation companies to determine if we can greatest risk, should crowds be exposed indicators devised by CMEV’s field health risk in election campaigning establish an outgrower model with proper to an asymptomatic person carrying the observers, as of 16 July, to measure due to the non-compliance with rules and regulations that would benefit the Covid-19 virus. party and candidate compliance with Covid-19 health guidelines by parties workers as well as the companies.” This is according to a Covid-19 Risk the Covid-19 election guidelines. and candidates. Contd. on page 2 Map designed and published by the The CMEV has recorded 64 health Contd. on page 2 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 2 the sunday morning FOCUS/NEWS Sunday, July 26, 2020

DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS TO LOCAL COMPANIES Positive move to boost economy BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA though the foreign donors cannot companies, the government official businesses. decide on the construction company, noted that it had not yet been According to the Government Amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, local economic experts it is the tender board that decides discussed. Information Department, the new welcomed President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s decision to give After 2023 or 2024, the country should open up for on which company the contract In the meantime, Co- Cabinet regulatory changes will support priority to local companies when assigning development foreign input as well, as it will should be handed over to, based on Spokesman Dr. Bandula the following industries: furniture projects, while warning that it will be healthy only for a few not be able to depend only on the recommendations given by the Gunawardana said the Government manufacturers, construction, years. local companies Technical Evaluation Committee was planning to stop foreign IT companies, and equipment (TEC). firms from competing for state manufacturing or loaning entities. Former CBSL Deputy Governor Speaking to The Sunday Morning, local engineers. and senior economist “In most of the projects funded construction projects and supplies In addition, software programmes former Central Bank of Sri President Rajapaksa further stated Dr. W.A. Wijewardena by foreign companies, they call for to government agencies including will only be procured from local Lanka (CBSL) Deputy Governor that the Government placed faith open tenders globally; a TEC can information technology in a bid companies, unless they are not and senior economist Dr. W.A. on the youth in the battle against be appointed, they will have to call to save foreign exchange and give able to provide them; in which Wijewardena said that at present, terrorism and in the same manner companies,” he stressed. for tenders from the world over, and income to local businessmen and case, an international company can the country is going through a he will place his trust with local “The Government cannot then that tender board will make create jobs. be sought to make the purchases, negative economic growth as almost engineers in the expected revolution continue to depend on local the decision. The donor will not Accordingly, Prime Minister subject to the approval of the all economic estimates indicate of the construction sector, adding contractors to provide all facilities,” participate,” he explained, adding Mahinda Rajapaksa, as the Information and Communication that this year’s economic growth that the past era of renowned he added. that the Government doesn’t have Minister of Finance, Economic, Technology Agency of Sri Lanka will be around -6%. Therefore, engineers from Sri Lanka should Explaining further, Dr. the freedom to pick a company. and Policy Development, recently (ICTA). he opined that giving priority to usher in again. Wijewardena said that for most When The Sunday Morning presented a proposal to allow Accordingly, the ICTA will also local companies when assigning However, Dr. Wijewardena of the projects funded by foreign contacted one of the top government local companies and entities with make specifications of the relevant development projects is a wise warned that the Government donors, they stipulate the type of officials, who wished to remain 51% Sri Lankan ownership to get hardware needed for government decision taken by the President. could not solely depend on local contractor the Government will anonymous, the official said the preferential treatment when bidding institutions, and local suppliers Addressing a recent meeting with contractors or companies when it have to hire in the agreement itself, decision that all future contracts for government tenders. The will get preference. If the local the members of the Institution of comes to development projects. and therefore the Government is would only be awarded to local procurement of office furniture will companies which are bidding Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL) at the “During a pandemic, where not free to decide which company it companies had not yet been taken only be allowed from companies for these tenders also create 25% Presidential Secretariat, President the economy has collapsed, should hand over the responsibility by the Cabinet. that have at least 50% local value value addition, they are eligible to Rajapaksa said that for many any measure to promote local of construction to. “Most of the contracts which have addition. have additional benefits during the years, the preparation of feasibility enterprises would have a positive “In terms of the projects that are already been awarded will not be The Co-Cabinet Spokesman bidding process. reports of development projects, impact on the economy of the funded by the Government of Sri changed and priority will be given said that due to the circumstances Furthermore, all construction construction supervision, and country,” Dr. Wijewardena stressed. Lanka, the Government has the to local companies in the future generated by Covid-19, the projects, including houses, decision making have been carried However, he noted that the freedom to award these contracts when awarding specific contracts. Government has been requested by highways, and irrigation, water out by foreign engineers, but the Government could depend only to a foreign company, a local one, The contracts could only be handed local companies and entrepreneurs supply, and sewage systems, should projects led by them have failed to on local companies up until 2022 or a combination of the two. They over to such companies which have to provide more assistance. be awarded to local contractors, meet the needs of the people. or 2023 as the country would face can do it. But the foreign-funded the technical knowhow to carry on Taking this into consideration, and the value of the contracts – if The President said the culture negative economic growth until ones stipulate the requirements and with the contract,” he said. the Government will attempt to given as sub-contracts to foreign of assigning development projects about 2024. “But after 2023 or the Government will not have the Responding to a query asked give more opportunities to local contractors – should not exceed to foreign companies will be 2024, the country should open up freedom to make a decision,” he about the Government’s position companies so that they can in 10% from the contract value reverted and future development for foreign input as well, as it will added. with regard to local companies turn generate more employment without temporary funds, as per the programmes will be entrusted with not be able to depend only on local Furthermore, he explained that which have partnered with foreign opportunities and expand their new proposal.

Contd. from page 1

children in Sri Lanka are rising at an alarming container loads of waste at the Colombo Port Hence, currently there are a large number Chairman Roshan Rajadurai said that Rs. 3.5 b... speed, each incident more shocking than the and Katunayake FTZ; to take legal action of showrooms and importers in the country regional plantation companies could not At present, seven major hydropower other. The recent reports of three gruesome against the importer(s) under the terms of the without a single vehicle in their showrooms, afford the recent demand of a wage hike to stations have been developed in the Mahaweli murders of children within a span of a week, National Environmental Act and the Customs and are struggling to survive and to pay their Rs. 1,000 per day unless certain conditions, river basin, having a total installed capacity goes to show that the country is still not Ordinance; and to order the Government to employees. If the ban is to continue, they such as an increase in tea auction prices, are of 810 MW. In addition to these, many mini taking sufficient measures to reduce such draft new laws, blocking the importation of will be forced to close down their businesses implemented. hydropower plants have been constructed incidents. waste materials to Sri Lanka. and make all their employees redundant, the “We cannot accede to the request of a along this river as run-of-the-river power “Therefore, we, as responsible citizens The writ was filed by CEJ Executive VIASL said. wage increase as we are incurring losses plants, having an installed capacity of of the country, must seriously debate these Director Hemantha Withanage, naming the as it is. If the Colombo auction price for less than 10 MW. Upon completion, the issues and help find progressive solutions CEA, the Customs, and the AG’s Department tea is not increased to Rs. 670 per kg, the Moragolla Power Station would have a gross collectively as a national emergency.” as respondents of the case. Delayed due... output of workers has to increase to enable installed capacity of 30 MW from two Francis With the prolonged lockdown and curfew – Maheesha Mudugamuwa He added that this was the only issue us to implement a daily wage increment,” turbines capable of generating approximately that was in place for a period of nearly preventing its implementation. Rajadurai said. 85 GWh annually. three months, the National Child Protection “Technically, it has been approved for By Skandha Gunasekara According to the Ministry of Power and Authority (NCPA) had observed a spike Yet to... implementation for several years now, but the Energy, the total installed capacity of the in the number of complaints they received Meanwhile, Co-Cabinet Spokesperson and lack of an updated demerit award programme project is 30.20 MW and it expects a total of pertaining to cruelty and abuse towards Minister of Higher Education Dr. Bandula is causing a delay. It cannot be implemented Three districts... 100 GWh of annual energy generation. The children. Gunawardana said that a retired Supreme overnight.” “In every electoral district that the CMEV project is funded by the Asian Development Moreover, keeping schools closed too has Court judge was to head the committee. The point system on licenses would ensure visited, the commitment of candidates and Bank (ADB). The ADB has provided $ affected children, as they are forced to be “Retired Supreme Court Justice Sisira better road safety and minimise accidents by organisers of most political parties to comply 113.86 million for the project under the locked in the same premises as their abusers. Rathnayake will head the committee and it shaving points off an individual’s license for with the health guidelines was negligible. “Green Power Development and Energy “We are at present devising a long-term will be mandated to ensure the state banking each road infraction. The establishment and daily functions of the Improvement Investment Programme” in national psychosocial support programme sector is organised to face the challenges of – Skandha Gunasekara campaign offices, meetings, and door-to-door 2017 as the first tranche of the funds. to ensure the well-being of all children in the Covid-19 pandemic,” Gunawardana said. campaigns were all observed to be operating The total estimated cost of the project Sri Lanka and the plan has been discussed The Cabinet of Ministers last week with minimal precautions to prevent the is $ 113.86 million with a total of Rs. during an inter-agency committee meeting approved a proposal by the Prime Minister to 12 waste... spread of Covid-19. Our field teams reported 1,930 million as the local component. The participated by representatives of UNICEF appoint an expert committee to streamline the Speaking to The Sunday Morning, MEPA that most of the party supporters who work in project consists of four lots for purpose of (United Nations Children’s Fund), World state banking sector to ensure it works in an General Manager (GM) Dr. P.B. Terney campaign offices were seen not even wearing construction, including Lot A1: Preparation Vision, Save the Children, ChildFund, Leeds, efficient manner in the face of the economic Pradeep Kumara said the decision was taken facemasks,” CMEV National Co-ordinator civil works, Lot A2: Main civil work, Lot FITIS (Federation of Information Technology hardships of the Covid-19 pandemic, after the cancellation of the Environmental Manjula Gajanayake told The Sunday B: Electrical and mechanical facilities, and Industry Sri Lanka), and Sarvodaya,” NCPA also focusing on the need to go beyond Protection Licenses (EPLs) of those Morning. Lot 3: Project management and supervisory Chairman Prof. Muditha Vidanapathirana told the stipulated objectives of such financial companies by the Central Environmental However, when CMEV field officers raised support. The Sunday Morning. institutions. Authority (CEA) following a survey the issue with candidates and their main The project is to be completed within five The programme is to roll out as two-week, conducted by the two authorities recently. organisers, they had responded saying their years. The procurement process of the project three-month, and six-month programmes. During the survey, it was revealed that out meetings and canvassing would follow the commenced in 2016 and the plant was set to In the meantime, the NCPA had also trained Importers ask... of the total of 28 companies engaged in ship necessary guidelines, while some mentioned commence operations in 2022. their psychosocial support officers from all He said for the motor trade to survive, the waste disposal activities in Sri Lanka, around that the guidelines had not even been In 2019, Chinese firm Gezhouba Group Co. 25 districts on how to counsel the affected ban on certain categories of vehicles needs to 12 have been engaging in harmful practices communicated to them, Gajanayake noted. Ltd. won a tender to undertake the main civil families and children as well. be lifted. while disposing oil and other waste into the All candidates had said that while they works of the plant, which includes a dam. “Vehicle categories such as small motor environment, without adhering to the rules would attempt to follow the guidelines for Preliminary construction work of the project cars, trucks, vans, and buses need to be and regulations, he added. meetings and canvassing, it was unlikely that is now at the final stage and the main civil UK to... allowed into the country with immediate Seven such companies were warned and the guidelines could be completely followed work related to the construction of the dam, “The repatriation procedures would begin effect. This will enable mobility and given a 14-day grace period to comply with while on the campaign trail. tunnel, power house, etc. is in progress now. once the ongoing inquiry is completed. The development of people-centric economic the rules and regulations, Dr. Kumara noted. “We have given health instructions to be The mechanical and electrical facilities main objective of the CEJ is to repatriate sectors while giving the motor vehicle After the cancellation of EPLs by the followed at public meetings to all candidates, contract of the project was awarded to the containers as soon as possible in order importers a chance of survival. CEA, the MEPA has decided to hold the but none of them (candidates) were seen Dongfang Electric International Corporation to stop the decaying of the containers within “Then, the next stage should be to allow all waste reception licenses of those companies following those instructions,” Public Health (DEC) of China. The contract agreement for the country,” he said, adding that legal action motorcars into the country as per the detailed and warned them to take necessary steps Inspector (PHI) D.M.S.B. Dalpatiya in this was signed between the CEB and DEC would be taken against the importers and plan requested by our association,” Rodrigo to comply with the existing rules and Nuwara Eliya informed. on 30 June 2020 at the CEB Headquarters in there was necessary evidence to prove that added. regulations, according to the MEPA GM. Monaragala Additional Health Officer Colombo. the containers carried waste disposal to the There is a huge community of vehicle If those companies fail to adopt the Nilanka Jayawickrama had informed the Commenting further, CEB Chairman country. importers from large-scale to sole trader level. necessary changes, the licenses will be CMEV that the majority of candidates were Eng. Herath noted that the civil, mechanical, Even though there was no Government As purchasing a quality vehicle is a dream cancelled, he warned. not complying with the health guidelines and electrical contracts have already been Analyst’s report, the initial investigation for most Sri Lankans, there is a massive – Maheesha Mudugamuwa in their campaigns. “Candidates and their awarded and the construction work of the conducted by the Central Environment supply chain built around it. Vehicle importers organisers do not inform PHIs about their project would begin next month. Authority (CEA) had stated that the provide various employment opportunities campaign meetings. PHIs have also not “The electrical designing of the project containers consisted of waste disposal, ranging from accountants, sales executives, Outgrower model... received enough information and materials has already started and the CEB is expected Dabare noted. marketing executives, drivers, cleaners, “That is one of the options forwarded by about the health guidelines from the Ministry to complete the project within the next Last year, Sri Lanka Customs and the security staff, etc. the trade unions in relation to the proposed of Health or elsewhere to keep party offices three years,” Herath said, adding that the CEA found that some private parties had Furthermore, service areas such as clearing salary hike for the plantation workers,” informed about those.” commencement of the construction work has imported around 240 container loads of agents, interior cleaners, and mechanics and Minister of Plantation Industries and Export Anuradhapura PHIs Nuwan Kulathunga been delayed during the past few months due waste to the country without the approval service centres are directly dependent on the Agriculture Dr. Ramesh Pathirana told The and Ajith Kumara had revealed that they had to the Covid-19 situation. of the CEA, breaching the provisions of the importation of motor vehicles. Sunday Morning. not received any facilities to visit campaign Basel Convention. It was later revealed that “As there is a ban on motor vehicle imports, He noted that it has already been offices and meeting locations, noting that the waste consignments were imported from vehicle importers as well as related service introduced in some plantations. only the National People’s Power (NPP) had Child abuse... the UK and had been lying at the Colombo providers have faced severe difficulties “Workers can follow the outgrower model submitted their campaign office list. In addition, incidents of rape had amounted International Container Terminals (CICT) and maintaining their business premises and if they wish to, but I accept that there may Another PHI, who wished to remain to 142 and cases of serious sexual abuse to the Katunayake Free Trade Zone (FTZ) since paying the salaries of their employees. be some shortcomings such as the lack of anonymous as he was attending to postal 42; these were reported from various police 2017. “Since the industry was only at the EPF (Employees’ Provident Fund)/ETF vote duties, said that as they do not have legal divisions in the country. The CEJ filed a writ of certiorari and recovery stage after the Easter attack, most (Employees’ Trust Fund) benefits. But the provisions to take action against violators of Stop Child Cruelty Trust Chairperson Dr. mandamus in the Court of Appeal, requesting vehicle importers carried out importation with proposals transitioning to this model will health guidelines for election campaigns, they Tush Wickramanayaka, speaking to The to order the CEA and SLC to conduct an minimum stock, as the holding cost of our ensure such benefits are awarded.” had stopped issuing permits for campaign Sunday Morning, said: “Crimes against investigation into the illegal importation of industry is substantial,” he added. Meanwhile, Planters’ Association offices and meetings temporarily. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 3 Sunday , July 26 , 2020 FOCUS

BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA RPC AND TU MANIPULATION OF PLANTATION WORKERS CONTINUES weeks of the month to work on a contract basis, just to earn solely on the yield Merely surviving in squalor in line of these tea bushes. So, out of 25 days, rooms for decades, earning meagre the workers work 15 days without their wages, the living standards of the labour rights. They’re only paid according estate sector workers continue to the yield they are able to obtain from in its dismal state without any the bushes. The yield can be affected by retirement benefits. Meanwhile, a host of factors such as weather, pests, their masters – the regional or other environmental issues. With the plantation companies (RPCs) – outgrower (model), workers don’t receive Bitter cuppa the privilege of the Minimum Wages Act take every advantage possible, including violating the original because they are dependent on the yield, where they are paid Rs. 40 per kilogramme collective agreement by reducing of plucked tea leaves. When the yield is the number of stipulated working low, they are unable to earn even the daily days, trade unions and non- minimum wage of Rs. 400.” government organisations (NGOs) allege. for workers Planters’ Association of Sri Lanka (PA) Chairman Roshan Rajadurai asserted On the outgrower model, we pay them that the current system did not motivate on an output basis. So, those who workers as the RPCs were mandated to are fast and work hard will make a give 300 days of work and thus, they have profit. At the moment, we are paying introduced a productivity-based model Rs. 40 per kg of tea leaves. Now we named the “outgrower model”. give a minimum of 20-25 days The productivity-based model PA Chairman Roshan Rajadurai “With the reduction in (the number of) workers, how can we maintain soft Thilakarajah also alleged that the private production? So, in all the estates, part of sector is taking advantage of the workers the crop comes through this kind of an by exploiting the collective agreement. outgrower or contract plucking model. Accordingly, the most recent agreement It’s happening across the board. The stipulates that a worker would receive Rs. current system doesn’t motivate them 700 per day as the minimum daily wage. to be productive, as they know that we However, another clause stipulates that are mandated to give 300 days of work. workers will only work 15 days in the field They’re in the field for eight hours – for the Rs. 700 per day and on the other especially the women – and get paid. Men PHOTO © FOREIGN POLICY days work according to the outgrower don’t work; they go at about 12.30 p.m. or model, he explained. 1 p.m. Because we can’t cover the whole income. Everybody is talking about the introduced the outgrower model which “Now, the latest version of the collective He then said that he had brought the round, we have given certain areas of our daily wage, but no one is talking about the infringed upon the labour rights of the agreement has introduced the outgrower matter to the attention of the International fields that we can’t manage for the workers fact that the number of working days has workers, including the failure to provide model. This is in violation of the labour Labour Organisation (ILO) and that he to pluck, and we pay them on an agreed reduced, which has resulted in the monthly any significant retirement benefits and rights (of workers) because there is no had moved an adjournment motion in basis, which we call ‘contract plucking’. income of estate worker also reducing.” the inability to provide even the legally EPF, ETF, or gratuity. They give the Parliament to reorganise the estate sector. There are various names.” He then charged that RPCs had required daily minimum wage of Rs. 400. tea bushes to the workers at least two Contd. on page 12 He assured that workers are given 20 days, at least, to work in the field for the stipulated wages of the most recent collective agreement signed last year, or what is known as “working for the name”. “On the outgrower model, we pay them on an output basis. So, those who are fast and work hard will make a profit. At the moment, we are paying Rs. 40 per kg of tea leaves. Now we give a minimum of 20-25 days – that is for the name. Other times, they are assigned to work in other areas in the outgrower model. Already they pluck more than 18 kg a day.” However, he did admit that the

RPCs had introduced the outgrower model which infringed upon the labour rights of the workers, including the failure to provide any significant retirement benefits and the inability to provide even the legally required daily minimum wage of Rs. 400 outgrower system at present does not provide Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) or Employees’ Trust Fund (ETF) benefits, reiterating that it is a productivity-based model. He further said that the RPCs want to transition to this outgrower model but were facing resistance from the estate worker unions. “What we are proposing is to assign a block of land to workers for them to pluck and get paid according to their output. This will see that those who work hard earn a good income as well as ensuring an increase in output and productivity. But the problem is that the unions are against this and are holding onto the collective agreement.” Exploiting the collective agreement Nevertheless, National Union of Workers (NUW) General Secretary and former Nuwara Eliya District MP Mylvaganam Thilakarajah told The Sunday Morning that the collective agreement, since its inception, had been watered down over the years to benefit the private sector. “Privatisation in 1992 saw the plantation estates being given to the private sector through the collective agreement. The government didn’t have any influence over the agreement; only the private sector and the union leaders were involved. In 1992, the master agreement between the companies and the trade unions was an 18-page document. But later, that master agreement was diluted and only two to three pages on the daily wages were brought to the fore while the rest of the master agreement was forgotten.” Thilakarajah said that plantation companies progressively removed clauses that protected the workers, of which one strategy was to reduce the number of mandated working days. “The master agreement has a clause stating that workers would get monthly remuneration only with the daily wages. So they must provide 300 days of work per year. But gradually, the RPCs have cut down the number of official working days, resulting in a reduction in the monthly WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 4 SPOTLIGHT z Plan approved by Scan the QR The pile of rubble left behind GAZETTES DECLARING THE AREA FOR code to access after the partial demolition Yahapalana Govt. of the said archeologically DEVELOPMENT our coverage of important site in Kurunegala  The Kurunegala Municipal Council area was this issue on declared under the Urban Development Authority z Executed by The Sunday Law on 1 June 1979 by the gazette notification Morning bearing No. 38/16. incumbent Govt. YouTube channel  The Development Plan for 2006/15 gazetted on 19 September 2006 by the gazette bearing No. 1467/33 had expired, after which the area z Road expansion covering 96 m2 and consisting of 54 grama niladhari divisions of the Pradeshiya Sabha on UDA plan for that encompasses the Kurunegala Municipal Council area has been declared under the Kurunegala in 2019 Urban Development Authority Law by gazette notification bearing No. 1926/20 on 4 August 2015. z Building demolished  With the development of the Central Expressway, the entire Pradeshiya Sabha area of Kurunegala to lay drain and has been declared under the said Law by gazette expand road notification bearing No. 2068/47 on 28 April 2018.

BY SARAH HANNAN REPORTING FROM KURUNEGALA As requested by the Prime It’s been a week and a half Minister, the committee appointed since the demolition of an to consider the evidence archeologically important site in Kurunegala was carried out by presented on the vandalism that the Road Development Authority was caused by the RDA at the (RDA) without obtaining proper disputed archaeological site in the clearance. The Sunday Morning’s Kurunegala town will delay for a visit to the site recently allowed us few more days to understand the reasons behind Secretary to the Ministry of Buddhasasana, the demolition. Cultural, and Religious Affairs As we arrived in Kurunegala, we were DEMOLITION OF KING BUWANEKABAHU II’S ‘MAGUL MADUWA’ M.K. Bandula Harischandra met with a group of people holding picket signs and allocated a police officer to plan, and development plans. Volume II ensure they stick to the protest route. It of the development plan was prepared as was apparent that the protestors had been a separate publication that consists of the rallied there by the monks of the nearby regulations for plans and buildings, zoning temples and was later joined by Samagi regulations for the period of 2019/30. Jana Balawegaya (SJB) candidates and Patali Champika Ranawaka, who was their supporters. the Minister of Megapolis and Western The said site stands in the heart of A tale of two Development at the time, had even written the Kurunegala town, perched on a a forward message for the publication in junction facing the A6 route (Kurunegala- which he mentioned that the preparation Ambepussa) which was earmarked for of the Kurunegala Urban Development expansion, according to the Kurunegala Plan involved extensive consultation with Urban Development Plan 2019-2030 set professionals, experts, stakeholders, and forth by the North Western Provincial the communities, while engaging modern Office of the Urban Development governments methods, sound techniques, and innovative Authority (UDA). The expansion was approaches. proposed to minimise traffic congestion However, as of recent, he has been which is predicted to worsen once the leading the protests against the demolition Central Expressway is built. of the site for development purposes. “There is quite a lot of infrastructure The building was demolished development that is taking place within the because it was an illegal Development plan disregarded city limits. The road network is centuries structure that was built by the The Sunday Morning contacted former old and now with the increase of vehicular Chandrasena family. If it was a Minister Ranawaka to inquire about the and human movement, traffic congestion recognised or catalogued area development plan that was published is becoming unbearable. It takes about 30 of archaeological importance, during his tenure as the Minister of minutes just to pass a 2 km section of the Megapolis and Western Development and city, which is unacceptable,” a visitor to the how did the RDA have a road asked whether the site had been recognised town told The Sunday Morning. expansion map for the area? by the Department of Archaeology for Commuters through the Kurunegala Mayor of Kurunegala preservation purposes. town see the efforts to widen their “During our Government, we took a Thushara Sanjeewa Witharana existing roads as a positive outcome of decision to do away with the old city such development work. However, he development plan that was drawn up for questioned the sudden interest over the Protest in Kurunegala on 18 July, launched by monks in the area and later joined by SJB candidates Kurunegala; with the participation of an building that was demolished, as the place and their supporters expert panel comprising city planners, was previously managed by a hotel owner RDA engineers, archaeology experts, and who operated a restaurant within the Already approved plan within the building. other relevant stakeholders, the Kurunegala premises. Today, the incident has put the “The media has got the facts mixed up (Urban) Development Plan was redone, Department of Archaeology, the RDA, and and is now saying that this building was which was published in June 2019,” he the Kurunegala Municipal Council along built during King Buwanekabahu II. They explained. with its Mayor in a fix, as political parties have assumed that Buwaneka was in fact Ranawaka added that the road expansion and their supporters are casting remarks on King Buwanekabahu II. The building map that was included in that plan was the illegal demolition of the building, also was demolished because it was an illegal designed considering the connective routes questioning as to how a hotel was allowed structure that was built by the Chandrasena that led to the Central Expressway. Once to run within the premises in the first place. family. If it was a recognised or catalogued that project was completed, they foresaw Addressing the media recently, Mayor of area of archaeological importance, how did consisted of two sections – namely, the need to expand the A6 road that runs Kurunegala Thushara Sanjeewa Witharana the RDA, which followed the UDA plan Volume I and Volume II. Volume I in front of the site. According to him, alleged that in 1993, the building had for the Kurunegala Urban Development comprised two parts; in the first part, the way they had planned to develop the been given on a 30-year lease to a person Plan, have a road expansion map for the it reported the introduction of the areas would not have caused any damage Protest at Lipton Circus held on 22 July, with known as Chandrasena by then Minister area?” he questioned. development plan, background studies, to the said site and the Department of the participation of SJB candidates and their for Cultural Affairs Gamini Jayawickrama The plan which Witharana questioned and need of the plan. The second part of Archaeology had by then earmarked it as a supporters Perera, where Chandrasena’s son had been gazetted under 2129/96 of 8 Volume I consisted of the vision of the site falling under their purview. PHOTO LALITH PERERA Buwaneka had later established a restaurant June 2019 by the then Government and plan, goals, objectives, the conceptual Contd. on page 5

KOTTE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA an idea about the areas construction should not be allowed in. There was also no proper Allegations have been levelled against If the Department had given us map given by the Department,” he stressed. the Department of Archaeology for turning a list of archaeological sites, the However, much of the land holding Kotte’s a blind eye on Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte’s Council would have an idea about buried past is being disturbed and rapidly archaeological sites, which face looting and the areas construction should not transformed for modern development, with Threatened by urbanisation threats. the construction of high-rise buildings and The monuments that can be seen in Kotte be allowed in. There was also no infrastructure, and expanding cities. are believed to have been built during the proper map given by When contacted by The Sunday Morning, time of the Kingdom of Kotte, which was the Department the Department of Archaeology ruled out urbanisation established in the 14th Century. Kotte Municipal Council official any threat to archaeological sites in Sri The city was fortified by King Jayawardenepura Kotte, claiming that the Alakeshwara due to threats of invasion by As a result, confusion has arisen as to Department had already taken steps to protect the King in the North. In many aspects, it which areas are of archaeological value and all the sites within a highly residential area in was one of the most successful kingdoms which areas aren’t, with recent allegations the Colombo District. at the time, and was culturally advanced as popping up of damage being caused to Speaking to The Sunday Morning, well, contributing to what is considered the several sites by residents in the area. Department of Archaeology Director General “golden era of Sinhala literature”. (DG) Prof. Senarath Dissanayake denied The kingdom was finally ceded to the No response from Dept. the recently circulating media reports that Portuguese in 1580 by Prince Dharmapala. Speaking to The Sunday Morning, a archaeologically valuable sites in Kotte Kotte has five different sites of historical council official who wished to remain were threatened as a result of residents and archaeological importance, each a few anonymous stressed that the council had encroaching and damaging those sites, kilometres apart. requested the Department to provide a list especially the monuments of the four- Despite being one of the most important of all archaeological sites in 2018, but that kilometre boundary wall. places of Sri Lanka’s history, it has now to date, they had not replied, despite several “There is no truth to the allegation and been revealed that the Department of reminders. the residents have not damaged those Archaeology had failed to provide, at the “Residents are facing difficulties as archaeological monuments situated in Kotte; very least, a list of archaeological sites they have to wait years to get their house the pictures of the tiles that were shown were The Veherakanda ruins in situated in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte plans approved. They are being sent from of what was brought by the Department Baddegana, Kotte believed to be the to its Municipal Council, despite several one department to another for approvals. for some renovation activities,” Prof. mausoleum of King Parakramabahu reminders following a request letter that was If the Department had given us a list of Dissanayake explained. VI and his consort, Queen Ranmenika sent in 2018. archaeological sites, the Council would have Contd. on page 5 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning Sunday, July 26, 2020

Contd. from page 4 its stead, an interim report was presented to the Prime Minister on 22 July, the Prime Minister’s Media Division noted. A tale of... “As requested by the Prime Minister, “What the present Government did was who is also the Cabinet Minister for that they disregarded the importance of the Buddhasasana, Cultural, and Religious site and went ahead with demolishing the Affairs, the committee appointed to consider building. It is true that a certain part of the the evidence presented on the vandalism building had been refurbished in the recent that was caused by the RDA at the disputed years, but the real reason behind this illegal archaeological site in the Kurunegala town demolition carried out by the Kurunegala the road development work in the area, will delay for a few more days,” he said. Mayor was to make way to build a bigger Ranawaka added. The committee hosted a media briefing last hotel in the back of the site,” Ranawaka Friday (24) to update the media as well as the elaborated. PM requests full report public on the progress of their investigation. Reiterating that had the incumbent While a full report on the matter was due Meanwhile, following consultations with Government at least paid attention to the to be presented to Prime Minister Mahinda the Police and the Director General of the already published UDA plan, which the RDA Rajapaksa last Thursday (23), Secretary to Department of Archaeology, the Attorney had followed when expanding the road and the Ministry of Buddhasasana, Cultural, General (AG) on 22 July advised the Acting laying the drain, it would have been clear and Religious Affairs M.K. Bandula Inspector General of Police (IGP) that that the site earmarked by the Department Harischandra told The Sunday Morning further comprehensive investigations into the of Archaeology was to be left undistributed. that it would probably be delayed further as destruction of the archaeologically important Furthermore, there was no reason to more findings contesting the site’s historical building in Kurunegala were necessary. The UDA plan for Kurunegala city development demolish the entire building to carry out or archaeological value were being filed. In PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA

Contd. from page 4 may declare the ancient monuments by notification published in the government gazette. Also under Sections 16, 17, and Threatened by... 19, ancient buildings and trees on state or He also assured that all the private lands may be declared as ancient archaeologically valuable sites in Kotte have monuments to provide safety and protection been fully preserved by the Department and for them. the Government ever since. Ancient constructions with historical and “Several archaeologically valuable sites archaeological value, and that are over 100 are situated in the middle of Kotte while years in age, can also be declared as ancient several others are situated at the Kotte monuments in terms of the provisions of Temple (Raja Maha Viharaya) and Ananda the Antiquities (Amendment) Act No. 24 of Sastralaya School in Kotte,” he said. 1988. As explained by Prof. Dissanayake, the However, when contacted, Sri monuments of the palace of the great King Jayawardenepura Kotte Municipal Alakeshwara, also situated in Kotte, include Commissioner A.D.S. Sadeeka told The large foundations built using kabok stone Sunday Morning that it was a duty of the and artefacts such as grinding stones and Archaeology Department to protect valuable water filters, which have been preserved by sites and the duty of the Council to provide the Department. support as necessary. Furthermore, the structures believed to “The archaeological sites within the be the mausoleum of King Parakramabahu council limits are not governed by the VI (the last king to unite all of Sri Lanka Council but by the Department, and it’s their under one flag) and his consort, Queen duty to protect those sites,” she said. Ranmenika, are also situated in Kotte; Meanwhile, a Presidential Task Force those include two mounds of dagoba-type headed by the Defence Secretary has arrangements made of kabok stone. recently been appointed to conduct a The archaeological monuments situated comprehensive survey of archaeological at Ananda Sastralaya, Kotte have also sites in the East and to take measures to been preserved by the Department and preserve the same, as several parties have the monuments at the Kotte Raja Maha voiced their concerns regarding destruction Viharaya have also been protected. to historical monuments. The programme has been launched with the support of the Department of Archaeology in order to preserve historic sites. PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA

Alakeshwara Archaeological Site, Kotte Declaring protected sites Sri Lanka has more than 250,000 identified archaeological sites throughout the country and some of them have been declared archaeological reserves and protected monuments by the Sri Lanka Archaeological Department. Archaeological reserves are the sites consisting of archaeological remains that are under direct control of the Archaeological Department. Protected monuments are privately owned but scheduled under Section 18 of the Antiquities Ordinance No. 9 of 1940. Section 18 of the Antiquities Ordinance No. 9 of 1940 reads: “Whereas it appears to the Minister that any ancient monument situated on any land other than state land is in danger of destruction or removal, or damage from neglect or injudicious treatment, and that it is in the public interest that such monument should be protected, he may subject to the provisions of Section 19, by order published in the Gazette, declare such monument to be a protected monument and from the date of the publication of such order, the monument to which the order relates shall be a protected monument for the purposes of this Ordinance.” According to Sections 16, 17, 18, and 19 of the Antiquities Ordinance No. 9 of 1940, the minister in charge of the subject WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 6 POLLS 2020 GENERAL NORTHERN PROVINCE ELECTION

BY SARAH HANNAN REPORTING FROM THE NORTHERN PROVINCE Over the last decade, the Northern Province has taken shape as a result of much VOTERS development. On our visit, we noticed there were visibly more townships and also resettlement that had taken place over the years. Due to the present pandemic situation in the country, there were several roadblocks manned by the Sri Lanka Police; as we headed FOCUS ON north, we were stopped and asked about our purpose of visit and the area we were heading towards. DEVELOPMENT As is the case in any other region of the country, the Northern Province too is seeing a lot of infrastructure development work, with bridges and road networks under construction, somewhat slowing the commute in certain Scan the QR areas. Areas that were once code to access thick jungles have transformed coverage of the into townships, and there is a Northern Province considerable amount of movement in the area too. and candidate interviews on JAFFNA DISTRICT The Sunday Morning Over the last three elections, this YouTube channel district voted in representatives from the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), Eelam People’s Democratic Party (EPDP), United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA), and United National Party (UNP) to Parliament. During our visit to the District and upon inquiry on the upcoming election, many citizens responded that even though they Road development work down the were not enthusiastic about the Medawachchiya-Talaimannar Highway Sangupiddy Birdge upcoming election, they will have PHOTOS SAMAN ABESIRIWARDANA to decide, come election day, as to who they want to vote for. Although the Province is made up of ve administrative districts – namely Jana, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, and Mannar – for the purpose of elections, it is divided into two electoral districts. The Jana Electoral District includes the Jana and Kilinochchi Districts, while the Vanni Electoral District is made up of Mullaitivu, Vavuniya, and Mannar. Ja na Electoral District POLLING POLLING Registered voters DIVISIONS STATIONS % 571,848 11 558 During the upcoming elections the Ja na District will witness 340 candidates contest from 34 political parties (20 main parties and 14 independent groups). Each political party has 10 nominees. from Kilinochchi, questioned. 2004 ELECTIONS 2010 ELECTIONS 2015 ELECTIONS Welu Rajasekaran, a resident

91% 7% 44% 32% 9% 69% 10% 7% of Kilinochchi, said that he lived throughout the civil war in

ITAK EPDP ITAK UPFA UNP ITAK EPDP UNP Kilinochchi. He and his family 257,320 18,612 65,119 47,622 12,624 207,577 30,232 20,025 had been moved to an internally We are tired of politicians displaced camp in Menik Farm and betraying us; they get have now returned to their ancestral voted in and once Vanni Electoral District homeland. Registered voters POLLING POLLING Sharing his thoughts, Rajasekaran they enter Parliament, DIVISIONS STATIONS 287,024 3 350 said: “All we ask is that these they forget the people’s representatives truly focus on the We request that they take problems they promised to During the upcoming elections the Vanni District will witness 405 candidates contest people of Sri Lanka. Regardless of from 45 political parties (17 main parties and 28 independent groups). a decisive decision over solve. This time we have Each political party has 09 nominees. ethnicity, these politicians should look at Sri Lanka as one country illegal fishing methods... no faith in the Tamil If fisheries in Sri Lanka politicians 2004 ELECTIONS 2010 ELECTIONS 2015 ELECTIONS and not divide it by regional politics. We all want to live in is streamlined with Rasikan, a youngster % 42 13% 39% 35% 12% 54% 24% 21% reconciliation. It is extremely harmony, so at least this time, the implementation of from Kilinochchi frustrating to watch politicians slow don’t say this is the Tamil people’s acceptable practices, then ITAK EPDP ITAK UPFA UNP ITAK EPDP UNP down the development aspect. problem or the Sinhalese people’s 90,252 16,213 41,673 37,522 12,783 89,886 39,513 20,965 “When it was requested that problem; if the citizens in any part we will be able to turn The Sunday Morning met with female representation be increased of the country are distressed, the this industry around Thulasi Muttulingam, a journalist She also pointed out that there to 25%, many women came people’s representatives should Amal, a fish vendor in in the North, to get a broader are groups with vested interests forward. However, they were later ensure that the issue is brought up Mullaitivu understanding about the political who do not want to see a united on intimated to the point that they in Parliament and a solution for it is situation in the region and whether country and are looking at creating lost interest.” presented.” there is enough space for younger divisions between the Tamil and It was only the wives, daughters, party will be able to develop not only politicians to remain in politics and Sinhalese people. She added: sisters, and girlfriends of politicians VAYUNIYA DISTRICT Vavuniya but also the entire country. usher in the much-needed change “Even if the youths in the region that were allowed to be in politics The general sentiment in Vavuniya “The area lacks infrastructure in perception towards democratic are all for peace and reconciliation or hold any posts in the offices, but seemed to be that a Sri Lanka Podujana development, and is facing a lot of governance. and looking at the possibility of those women too were puppets of Peramuna (SLPP)-led government land disputes. If the government “People have realised that ultra- being treated as Sri Lankan rather these politicians and did not do any should be established as they believe that gets elected is able to look nationalism is not the answer for than being identified by their race, good for the people. the politicians contesting from that into these matters and sort it out, it the region’s problem. Regional these groups will suppress their “There are some popular activists would help the people immensely. politics has turned into a big ball thoughts. Anyone who speaks We believe that it would in the region, both male and female, “Should Mahinda Rajapaksa get of confusion with the voter being up and expresses their need to trying to raise awareness, and the elected to Parliament and hold the misled as well as brainwashed reconcile is immediately branded a be best that politicians moment these politicians realise post of Prime Minister, I believe by the political parties. They are traitor to the race.” from the SLPP get elected that people are rallying around we will be able to count on him being pushed to say that they Muttulingam has also observed from this region as they them, they are asked to stop their to improve the infrastructure of are all good with regard to their that there is a huge amount of drugs seem to be able to develop activities,” Muttulingam noted. Vavuniya. Even the roads that you livelihoods. But it is not always the and alcohol that is pumped into the see are what he fixed after the end the area and will be KILINOCHCHI DISTRICT case, and based on who is asking region by persons with political best suited to work with of the civil war,” Sivagnasundaram, the question, they would choose to influence and that it has destroyed The Kilinochchi marketplace is a a retired police officer who made reveal their hardship.” the lives of more than 70% of President Gotabaya melting pot of culture and it was not Vavuniya his home, noted. Rajapaksa that difficult to inquire from them about Ravi, who was originally Railroad work in progress Ravi, a resident in the upcoming election and what they from Jaffna, is now a resident in at Talaimannar expect from the government that will Vavuniya. When asked about what Vavuniya be voted in. he expects from the next Parliament “We are tired of politicians It would be great if the that will be elected, he stated: the male youth population of the betraying us; they get voted in area develops to the “We believe that it would be best Province. The Central Government and once they enter Parliament, level of Jaffna. It’s been that politicians from the SLPP get is using these vices as a tool to they forget the people’s problems over a decade since any elected from this region as they control the youths from being vocal they promised to solve. This type of infrastructure seem to be able to develop the area about their needs, she shared. time, we have no faith in the and will be best suited to work with “The provincial governments, Tamil politicians. What did (C.V.) development took place President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. on the other hand, block any type Wigneswaran, or any of these in this District “All we need is to have leaders of development from taking place politicians who were supposed Nirmal that would unite the country and in the Province, as they do not to talk about the problems of the from Pesalai, Mannar allow us to live in peace and believe in sustaining peace and people, do?” Rasikan, a youngster harmony.” the sunday morning Sunday, July 26, 2020

look forward to seeing how they run POLITICAL PARTY CANDIDATES the country. “Most of us this time will vote The country should be rid of for the SLPP and SJB (Samagi Jana Balawegaya) as we are disgusted corrupt politicians and entities by the way this country’s political SLFP Jaffna District candidate Arulanandam Arun (Arun Siddarthan) system has been shaped by the so-called old parties. They have Politicians should first during this election campaign, done more damage than good to familiarise themselves with the we see many of the politicians the people because they are power grassroots-level problems so asking people to vote for them, hungry and are not willing to give as to work with the people and but none of them looked out for up their seats. also towards the betterment of the people in their respective “We need to make way for a the people. It is only after one electorates when the country was new political system and we trust has proven themselves to under lockdown due to Covid- that this President, with the help of be a respected social 19. Today, people are more an able government, can turn this worker can they concerned about how they country’s economy around.” enter politics and ask can put food on the table, people to vote for rather than worry about MANNAR DISTRICT them. an election. So whoever As soon as the civil war ended, there Nowadays, engaged in social work was a lot of focus on bringing the politicians do during that time and made industries in the Northern Province to not care about the sure that their potential its former glory. However, the political hardships the people voters were tug of war has led to the development have to undergo, but looked after, projects being in a stagnant state. demand that the can easily Madhushi, a 21-year-old from common man votes win this Talaimannar, working in the them into election. hospitality industry, said: “People Parliament. Contd. on are not that keen on the election, Even page 13 but it seems that they favour A.K.J. Nanda Kumara (of the SLPP contesting from the Vanni Electoral Vote in politicians who can District) to be elected. improve the quality of life Independent Group 8 Jaffna wildlife, and launch sustainable District candidate development plans. Our party, although an independent party, is Ainkaranesan Ponnuthurai here to back the decisions of the Many of the political parties Government and remind them contesting in this election about the importance of protecting have no regard for protecting our environment. the environment. As an Furthermore, we hope that environmentalist, I believe this time, people will vote in that all the pollution that politicians not based on we have caused has their party but based on now come to taunt us. the amount of work they Should Mahinda There is rapid have done towards the Rajapaksa get elected to development taking betterment of the people Parliament and hold the place across the and whether they are country with little going to be there for the post of Prime Minister, I to no regard about people after getting elected believe we will be able to how to conserve to Parliament after 6 August. count on him to improve forests and Contd. on page 13 the infrastructure of Vavuniya. Even the roads that you see are Ensure shared sovereignty what he fixed after the end of the civil war through the share of power Sivagnasundaram, a TNA Secretary General, ITAK and cultural marginalisation. We retired police officer in Leader, and Jaffna District will work to change this adverse Vavuniya candidate Mavai Senthirajah situation through a joint effort to put an end to the exploitation and In a democracy, the government repression of state agents. “During Mahinda Rajapaksa’s elected by the people should stand Only through a constitutional time, the area saw much by its people. Only on this basis arrangement incorporating development. We are yet to see such can a participatory democracy community policies within a work from the current Government. be established and sustained. united Sri Lanka can the Hopefully, after the new Parliament However, the Constitution legitimate aspirations is elected, we will be able to does not provide for Tamil- of Sri Lankan witness a revival of our economy speaking people to associate Tamils and other and see movement in the stagnated with the Sinhalese and Tamil-speaking development-related activities.” enjoy their sovereignty. people living in the Nirmal from Pesalai, speaking Because of this deficiency, northern and eastern to us, said: “It would be great if they have been subjected parts of the island the area develops to the level of to political subjugation, be met. Jaffna. It’s been over a decade economic recession, Contd. on page 13 since any type of infrastructure development took place in this District. Thanks to former President Mahinda Rajapaksa we have this road, but that too is now in need of maintenance. “The ministers are reaping all the perks while the citizens that elected them are stuck in the same way of life for generations. This time, we will vote for new faces and progressively thinking politicians; it is not the party that we will elect, Pesalai Town, Mannar Island but a representative who can deliver what is promised.” MULLAITIVU DISTRICT international fishing water limits, Meanwhile, the fruit and so Sri Lanka can reap the benefits vegetable vendors of Pesalai want Amal, a dried fish vendor in of the aquatic culture around its the Government that gets elected to Mullaitivu, speaking to The Sunday northern waters. construct a marketplace so they do not Morning, noted: “We’ve lost all He added: “We request that they have to do business on the roadside. faith and hope in the Tamil parties take a decisive decision over illegal Jesmil, who sells vegetables from that originated from the Northern fishing methods such as bottom his lorry, pointed out a rundown Province. trawling, dynamite blasting, using building and informed us that the “Over the years, many have used Lyle nets for fishing, and other Fisheries Department was housed our votes, given us false hope, and methods that cause more harm to in it previously; since it was moved entered Parliament just to forget about the ocean’s fishing population. If elsewhere, the building is not the people’s needs. This time, we are the fisheries industry in Sri Lanka is being used by anyone. “They can voting for the SLPP, hoping that the streamlined with the implementation easily repurpose this building to a representatives of that party with the of acceptable practices, then we will marketplace so that we do not have incumbent President would usher in be able to turn this industry around.” to conduct business on the road. a new era to politics and governance.” Heading out of Mullaitivu, we “Furthermore, given that there is Amal requested that the new met Yiseiraj and asked him about his a pandemic, we too want to have Parliament ensure the livelihood of thoughts on the upcoming election. our permanent business premises in the fishing communities is protected He shared: “We are not asking much town so we can sell our produce in a and reinforce border patrol along from the next Parliament, but we more hygienic environment.” NOW READ US DAILY

e-paper visit epaper.themorning.lk Mannar WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning Sunday, July 26, 2020 EDITORIAL/POLITICS T-MINUS 10 DAYS FOR 2020 GENERAL ELECTION With a little over a week to go Lessons yet to be for the 2020 general election, all political parties are now gearing to make its last push learnt for the polls with full force. On 21 July 1977, exactly 43 years to the day, when J.R. Jayewardene’s United National Party (UNP) won 140 of the 168 seats in Parliament, the The caretaker Government led by Caretaker Cabinet concludes more enlightened of the 14 million Sri Lankans at the time would have Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa expected the victor to put national unity at the top of the agenda, given last week held its last cabinet the widening fissures between the majority and minority ethnic groups. meeting before the general election. Such expectations have been too much to ask of our politicians back The next cabinet meeting will be then as much as it is today, where the very same electoral considerations held once the new government is continue to outweigh national interests. formed and the ninth parliament The creation of ethnic divisions was the weapon of choice of the holds its ceremonial opening. British to keep the natives quarrelling among themselves rather than Until then, it is now officially duties; final push for polls begins with them, who for all intents and purposes were the real enemy. It was the last stages of the general enjoy a one-up against the SJB last the smart and convenient thing to do on the part of the British and the election campaign and the main CBK writes to PB; returns vehicles week when an appeal filed by SJB strategy worked like magic with our leaders falling for the bait time and contenders, the Sri Lanka Podujana General Secretary Ranjith Madduma again. It is to the eternal discredit of our politicians from then until the Peramuna (SLPP), United National Former President Chandrika that they have serious financial Bandara challenging the Colombo present, that they have failed to see the bigger picture and we as a nation Party (UNP), and Samagi Jana Bandaranaike Kumaratunga constraints, I have decided District Court’s order relating to the have been destined to remain in the same dark hole unwilling and unable Balawegaya (SJB), are all moving has, in writing, informed of her to return 4 of the 12 vehicles UNP’s decision to suspend the party to climb out of it. forward despite several visible issues decision to return several vehicles allocated to me. membership of 99 SJB members, Yesterday, 25 July, marked the 37th anniversary of what is now known ranging from intra-party conflicts to officially allocated to her since the I give below the details: was dismissed with costs by the as Black July, when violent mobs instigated by racist politicians ran amok, the return of the leadership crisis. Government had made known the 1. Mercedes Benz Car Model S600 Colombo Civil Appellate High killing Tamils and destroying their property. Of course, the trigger for the financial constraints faced by the – WP KD 8985 Court. carnage was the killing of 13 Sinhalese army soldiers who were ambushed Leadership issue returns State at present. 2. Nissan Patrol Jeep – WP GD The court has also ordered the during a routine patrol in Jaffna the previous day by a nascent terror outfit It is evident that when referring Kumaratunga has further noted 7249 appellant-petitioner Madduma that later became the LTTE. When the bodies of the 13 soldiers were to a leadership crisis, there could that the President’s Office had 3. Mahendra Double Cab – WP PA Bandara to pay a sum of Rs. 25,000 brought to the General Cemetery in Borella, news spread like wildfire and only be one political party facing refused to accept two vehicles that 7166 to the UNP as legal costs. soon all hell broke loose with mobs taking to the streets and taking the law the issue – the UNP. The split of the were returned, pointing out that 4. Toyota Land Cruiser Jeep – WP The Colombo District Court on into their own hands. For days, JR turned a blind eye in order to appease majority of UNP MPs into the SJB there were several minor body GB 8499 22 June had refused to issue an the majority community and failed to see the consequences of his inaction, just prior to the election campaign damages, which could be sorted I will also return another of the enjoining order against the UNP which then bled the country for the next 26 years. is widely attributed to the loss of out with the insurance of the 8 remaining vehicles. I shall give office bearers since the complainant The events that began on that fateful day endured for three decades confidence by most of the party’s relevant vehicles. you the details later. had failed to disclose true facts where Sri Lanka, as a nation, was pulled back to the Stone Age with parliamentarians in the leadership of However, the former President Please note that of the above relating to the expulsion. death and destruction the order of the day. Today, even though the war Ranil Wickremesinghe, with many had said those two vehicles will vehicles, 1, 2 and 3 belong to the Madduma Bandara had afterwards has ended, the reasons that led to it have only been partially addressed assuming that those who remained be returned after the repairs were President’s Office and vehicle 4 filed an appeal at the Civil Appellate while the North and East continue to lag in economic development had confidence in their leader. carried out. belongs to the Sri Lanka Police. High Court in Colombo, challenging compared to the rest of the country, making it fertile ground for During the election campaign Following is the text of the letter I wish to further inform you that the District Court’s order which dissention just as it was decades ago. period, however, there have been sent by Kumaratunga: when vehicles No. 2 and 3, were refused to issue an enjoining order Today, Sri Lanka is on the threshold of yet another election and rather signs that many of those who 3 July 2020 sent to the President’s Office by preventing the UNP Working ironically, the same people and personalities that presided over the remained may not have done so out Dr. P.B Jayasundara, my office, the relevant officials Committee’s decision to suspend the carnage that began in Black July of 1983 are still the ones in the driving of loyalty to Wickremesinghe, but Secretary to H.E. the President, there insisted that some small UNP party membership of 99 SJB seat seeking yet another mandate from the people. Mahinda Rajapaksa instead with aspirations of replacing Presidential Secretariat, repairs to the body of the vehicle candidates. first entered Parliament in 1970, making him the most senior Member him in what remains of the UNP. Colombo 1 be carried out before we returned of Parliament today even though he failed to be re-elected in 1977, The issue of the UNP leadership Dear Mr. Secretary, it to them. SJB manifesto which is when Ranil Wickremesinghe won his first election. These two and its future has figured twice I write to inform you that I have The vehicles are fully insured The SJB last Monday (20) figures, among others, have played a key role in shaping the destiny of since in the public domain. First, been allocated a total of 9 vehicles and the repairs could have been launched its manifesto for the 2020 this country over the past few decades in numerous roles for better or for when former Minister and UNP by the Presidential Secretariat, for undertaken by the President's general election. worse and one is at a loss to understand what more they have to offer the Colombo District candidate Ravi my personal use, for the use of my office. However, as they refused The party had expressed electorate considering their combined contribution of 93-plus years of Karunanayake made a public office, as well as for the use of my to do this, both vehicles are being commitment to establishing parliamentary life. statement that he was eligible to Security personnel. My Security repaired and will be sent to you a people-oriented system of It is a given that our politicians, including those representing the hold the party’s top slot, making Division was allocated 3 vehicles within the next one week. governance in their election minority communities, have consistently failed to look beyond their clear his aspiration to replace by the Police for Security work. Yours sincerely, manifesto that also included focus nose, primarily due to political insecurities. They have failed to be the Wickremesinghe. Under the circumstances, when Chandrika Bandaranaike on national security, a special statesmen they were supposed to be and the result has been the country However, the most recent the Government informed us Kumaratunga task force to attract investment, losing an entire generation of youth and years of progress and prosperity statement was made by UNP eschewing unsolicited proposals, to a futile and destructive war. National Organiser, trade union and maintaining a unitary state. If the conduct of the main political parties today is anything to go by, it head, and Nuwara Eliya District The UNP National Organiser Premadasa, addressing the seems that lessons are yet to be learnt and reconciliation in an acceptable Leader Navin Dissanayake. branded the SJB as “a rented gathering at the launch, had said form is still a long way off. So, where to from here? Do we lean on the He had made a public statement political party” formed with the the aim of the SJB was to bring same people who have been instrumental in creating the issues on our that the leadership of the UNP, sole purpose of dividing the UNP. consistency and a people-oriented plate today to continue their political blundering, or has the time finally which had remained unchanged “The ‘telephone’ is not the approach to governance. come for a change in the political landscape? Just as much as we would for 26 years, needed to be changed UNP. The UNP is the ‘elephant’; The SJB manifesto had reportedly like to hedge our bets on the latter, an immature and emotional electorate and that he had the required the ‘green’ is our traditional colour. identified job security, support for known to vote with their hearts rather than their minds, could result in qualifications to become the leader The SJB is a rented political small and medium-sized enterprises things staying the same. of the party. black box party formed to divide the UNP. (SMEs), and restarting tourism as However, the silver lining is that there seems to be a general consensus Addressing a political meeting by Capt. Vasabha It is a political party without any key factors in the post-Covid-19 this time around that the time has come for transition of power to a new in Dimbula, Pathana, Hatton he policy, future, or second level period. generation that is more in touch with ground realities. had said: “I am a straightforward leadership,” he had added. “Our main aim is efficiency in If the southern politicians have failed, their north-eastern counterparts politician. I am one of the seniors in “It was the UNP that worked for In the eyes of many voters, the governance and to do away with have been no better. Governance issues are more pronounced in the North the party; I think I can be its leader. this country. However, everyone campaigns of the UNP and SJB wastage. We must provide for the and East where even after 11 years of peace following the war, economic I will become the party leader and if knows the UNP is divided today. have both focused not on the people and be geared to support development has been slow in coming in comparison to the rest of the I reach the top post of this country, “The leadership of the UNP shortcomings of the Government, them. The difference between our country. More than any systemic failure, this lack of progress can be the President or the Prime Minister, should change. The same person but on which party is the legitimate manifesto and what you have seen attributed to the quality of Tamil politicians representing these areas. Their I will first work for the people of who has been leader for 26 years heir to the UNP of yesterday. While by other political parties in the past lack of vision, foresight, and tendency to quarrel among themselves over Nuwara Eliya. cannot continue to be the leader of it is no secret that Premadasa’s is that we have given timelines to petty issues have not helped the cause of the marginalised people of the “I have been in politics for 20 years. the party,” he had concluded. popularity has waned in private reach targets,” Premadasa had said. North and East whose contribution to the country’s Gross Domestic Product I am at the second or third position Dissanayake had later alleged among SJB seniors, the public He had also noted that the Covid- remains at the bottom among the nine provinces. in the UNP and I want to become the that a leadership struggle had attacks on the UNP Leader by 19 pandemic had caused significant If that were not bad enough, the Covid-19 pandemic has added fuel number one. erupted between SJB Leader Sajith Karunanayake and Dissanayake impact to the economy and the to the fire with tourism, which has been the main driver of the northern “I have introduced young leaders Premadasa and SJB candidate Patali may leave voters wondering why Government had failed to manage and eastern economies in the post-war era, grinding to a halt. As a result, to the party. They will take the party Champika Ranawaka. they should elect a candidate in the public health crisis effectively. not only are hundreds of youth without jobs but also farmers, fishermen, forward. Addressing a meeting at Thispane Wickremesinghe, who does not even “There has to be a strategic plan meat producers, vendors, retailers, etc. who have all been hit in some “The United National Party is the in Kotmale, Dissanayake lashed out have the confidence of his remaining to tackle international and domestic way or the other. oldest political party in the country at Ranawaka, charging that he was party seniors. challenges,” Premadasa had said. Given the not-so-positive economic outlook in the short to mid-term, and a large number of national planning to buy over elected MPs to According to reports, the SJB it would no doubt be a challenge to get the unemployed youth back to leaders have emerged from this his side and he was eyeing to contest UNP defeats SJB manifesto also proposes a new work. To make matters worse, the country’s unemployment rate hit a party. the next presidential election. Meanwhile, the UNP managed to political economy, which the party 10-year high in the first quarter of 2020. According to data from the claims will be drafted on policies Department of Statistics, unemployment for the first three months of the formulated by them following year rose to 5.7%, a level not seen since 2009. consultations with economists, The worst however, is yet to come. The full impact of Covid- professionals, the private sector, and 19 is expected to hit the second quarter, meaning the already high the public. unemployment rate is likely to shoot higher due to the contraction of The SJB had stated that it economic output. supported a unitary state where the Despite political turmoil at regular intervals, Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity of the country unemployment rate has hovered in the 4% range over the last decade. and sovereignty is secured, while According to a leading rating agency forecast, the country’s corporate carrying out devolution of power sector is expected to see a revenue decline of around Rs. 40 billion in within the state. the first quarter compared to last year. The revenue drop has been led by “We propose a unitary Sri Lanka, the hotel sector which is expected to experience a near 75% decline in a country with the 13th Amendment, revenue across the board for the rest of the year. Therefore, managing not 13 plus or 13 minus,” Premadasa the emerging situation over the next few months, especially in the more had said, pointing out that leaders marginalised areas like the North and East, will pose a huge challenge before had used the “plus” and not only for the Tamil politicians representing these areas but also for the “minus” selectively to their benefit government that is to be elected on 5 August. when talking to diplomats and the One must keep in mind the fact that every rebellion this country has public, but had never implemented experienced in its post-Independence history has essentially been rooted clear policies. in economic factors concerning the youth. Therefore, instead of the pie in The manifesto calls for the sky politics, it would be good if politicians recognise the challenges de-politicisation of the military and ahead and tackle the ballooning unemployment issue which, as history Police and to modernise them with has shown us, has the potential to snowball into other issues if not technology to counter modern and handled with care. emerging threats while maintaining a strong focus on counter- No 91, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. radicalisation and terrorism. Fax - 011 2 673 441 The SJB manifesto has proposed General - 011 5 200 900 a Post-Covid Investment and Director Sales & Marketing - 077 3 866 143 Development Fund (PCIADF) to Circulation Manager - 011 5 978 987 / 076 1 367620 revitalise a weakened economy, E-mail - [email protected] and investment task force (ITF) to attract new investments to the WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 9 EDITORIAL/POLITICS

The area has witnessed a multitude of problems ranging from unemployment, suicides, and other social problems. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, who attended the meeting, sought to de-escalate the tensions and urged the people to avoid conducting themselves in a Caretaker Cabinet concludes manner that causes rifts within the party. “It is sufficient for you to remember the number of the candidate whom you want to vote for,” Rajapaksa told party supporters. He pledged that the provincial duties; final push for polls begins council elections will be held if his camp is elected to power at the 5 August parliamentary election. It is in this backdrop that SLPP Chairman Prof. G.L. Peiris told the media that the party would focus on setting up a self-critical government after next month’s general election. Prof. Peiris had opined that despite seeking a two-thirds majority at the general election, the SLPP would attempt to foster a balance of power in the House by being a self-reflective party that would work with the Opposition to improve accountability through the vibrant function of parliamentary bodies such as the parliamentary Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE). Prof. Peiris had said last Monday (20) at a news conference, that the SLPP would take necessary measures to protect democratic objectives through strengthening parliamentary committee systems and create a culture of “self- criticism” within the Government. “The Opposition’s objective is not to win the election. They have already acknowledged that the election will be won by us. In that situation the Opposition will be weak. Therefore, the functions and responsibilities SJB Leader Sajith Premadasa Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa attributed to the Opposition cannot be carried out by a weak country, if elected. The SJB had also called for the and Pothuhera-Galagedara sections after a monk vented his anger Galagamaarachchi. Opposition. This enhances the It has also proposed the providing eradication of political interference of the highway within three years, if against politicians for failing to “…if we allow them to act duties of the government in power. of free visa and PCR testing to in the judiciary and the Police but elected to office. resolve the people’s problems. on this platform again, they They will have to be self-critical encourage tourists to visit the island. did not specify how a prospective The rally had been organised will understand the people of and the government will have to According to the SJB, a code SJB government would set about In-house battles intensify by SLPP Monaragala District Wellassa,” the Chief Priest discharge some of the duties of the of ethics for politicians must be the task. On the other side of the divide, Leader Shashindra Rajapaksa at a temple in the area, Ven. Opposition,” he had been quoted put in place while strengthening The party had proposed to tensions arose at an SLPP meeting and the party’s Wellawaya Mahasenagama Nandasara Thera, as saying at the news conference. independent institutions established complete the Kadawatha-Dambulla in Sewanagala on Sunday (19), Electorate Organiser Wimal said. Contd. on page 14 to combat corruption, uphold human rights, and manage the judiciary and law enforcement in the country. Interestingly, the UNP had also proposed similar action in their In politics, you don't groom leaders: Ranil manifesto launched last week. The SJB manifesto has proposed BY CHARINDRA CHANDRASENA for President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Is this the policies of the other side also didn’t work to do away with using “unsolicited because you let them down with excessive in our favour. So now, we want to get another proposals” in major infrastructure With the election two weeks away, The taxation and a lack of policy consistency? primary surplus because that gives space for projects and calls for more Sunday Morning sat down with former No, there were people in the business growth. transparency and competitive Prime Minister and United National Party community and other segments of society bidding to obtain the best outcomes (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe for who felt there should be a completely new But corporate taxes were high, weren’t for the taxpayer. a discussion on his party’s prospects, his face. They were disgusted with all politicians. they? The policy document had also ideologies and focus on the economy, and the So they went for the one man who was not Taxes went up, but we were in a position called for the immediate and safe reasons that led to his Government’s defeat in connected to politics. to achieve a surplus in the primary budget, repatriation of Sri Lankan migrant 2019. The incidents in Parliament in late 2018 which would then enable the economic workers and a Rs. 20,000 monthly The following are excerpts of the interview. also reflected very, very badly on politicians. situation to improve. But unfortunately in stipend to be issued to families Having live TV sessions in Parliament made 2019, the Easter bomb was a setback. Our affected by the Covid-19 crisis. You are generally seen as someone more it worse, not just for one party but the whole economy was strong enough for us to recover However, like the UNP and other internationalistic than nationalistic. Is that Parliament. by the end of the year, and 2020 should have parties, the SJB manifesto had a fair assessment? In UK, live TV improved the quality of been another primary surplus year. also failed to indicate the source In this game, we are all nationalistic. But parliamentary proceedings, but not here. The of necessary funds to carry out the we have to understand the reality of global TV stations and print media both wanted But the business community was constantly promised relief, given the state’s politics. When you need to co-operate in to sensationalise it. There was a hardcore complaining that policies changed every precarious fiscal position. national interest, you co-operate. The world group that was happy, but everyone else was couple of months. Why was that? The policy document promises has become more globalised, so you can’t disgusted. Not every couple of months; there were to expand support and modernise prevent thinking internationally; if you some changes in tax policy, some of them due the provincial secretariats, don’t have that, your national interests get There were low GDP (Gross Domestic to the need to ensure revenue. But overall, through which a prospective SJB affected. Product) growth rates year after year there was no reason to complain because government plans to broaden the during your Government. Were you, along business went up, exports went up, we range of public services offered and People who have worked closely with you with the Central Bank, too focused on regained GSP Plus (Generalised Scheme of decentralise some key government say you are inflexible and hard to reason fiscal consolidation at the cost of economic Preferences facility extended by the European services which are currently only in with. Are you? growth? Union), which helped both the fisheries and Colombo. I look at all ideas. There has to be flexibility What happened in 2012-13 was that we apparel industries. The SJB has promised to roll out in politics. But you must hold firm your borrowed heavily and the money went Not just in our Government but in many more public sector pay increments major ideals. No government or party can towards the non-tradable sector, and non- governments, there are what you call “tax and incentives for executive grade disown their decisions because then you lose UNP Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe tradable goods; if it was tradable goods, our u-turns”. But it’s only called a u-turn if taxes employees, and update the existing credibility with the voters. economy would have expanded. Many of are increased. When it’s reduced, they don’t healthcare system and strengthen But shouldn’t the government as a whole the construction projects didn’t give a return. say it’s a “u-turn”. But all in all, there was no preventive medicine and treatment Do you believe that the Bond Scam was promote their achievements? Those are the debts we couldn’t repay. serious bar to business being carried on. in all hospitals. the second biggest reason after the Easter Yes. We did that through the Ministry of By 2014, we were in serious trouble and The SJB has also proposed a attacks that led to the defeat of your Media and Information. But if you think that is why Mahinda Rajapaksa went for an This Government has been focused on national nutrition programme, which Government? advertising is the only means, sorry, I don’t early presidential election. But we stabilised encouraging domestic industries and was in Premadasa’s presidential No, that was not the reason. Our loss agree with that. the economy. The growth rate, from that businessmen via corporate tax cuts and manifesto as well. of votes, if at all, was not throughout Sri I feel it’s about going around the country heavily inflated one, came down as we import restrictions. Were your free trade Premadasa had reiterated his Lanka; it has been a sizeable section of the and explaining to people at public functions stabilised and moved investments into the policies detrimental to the growth of the commitment to foster national Sinhala votes, which I think was affected you attend as well as to the media, what more productive areas of the economy, and domestic economy and businesses? unity and had called for correcting by the Easter bombs. But we did not sell exactly you and the Government have done, that’s how it was going to pick up. No, the domestic industries expanded from narratives on nationalism and our achievements, thereby allowing our and if you communicate that properly, people We got a primary surplus on the budget for 1977. Most of our domestic industries are creating a stable environment where opponents to attack us. We should have taken will accept it. the first time in 60 years in 2018. So we were value-added (industries), where we get the all communities and religions can the offensive and shown what we had done. That is what we have been doing from 1977 able to meet all the government expenditure, raw material from abroad. co-exist in harmony and dignity. onwards. (You need to) remember that the other than the interest payments, with the Earlier, we had a closed economy and The manifesto had further called Some in the former Government have said attacks on us by the other side were on media revenue we raised, which was not the case ended up not eating rice for two days and not for public action to eradicate racism, that it was you who was against advertising talk shows and at grassroots-level meetings. earlier. having sufficient clothing. intolerance, and extremism. and publicity. So we have to counter that. We were able to pay off the deficit – we They are talking of this self-sufficiency In a similar vein to the UNP, the No. We told each ministry that they had to should have done this earlier, but the war because they have lost about $ 6 billion in SJB had pledged to protect the rule publicise their achievements and showcase The private sector and business intervened. With the Mahaweli Project and foreign exchange and instead of admitting of law and democratic institutions what they had implemented, but it wasn’t community were instrumental in bringing others, our production went up. We had a that and looking for ways to improve, they’re and to protect as well as empower done. You can’t get other ministers to do that your Government to power in 2015. But deficit then, (but) with the hope of repaying it. talking about domestic industries. the independent institutions created for you. four years later, they overwhelmingly voted However, the war delayed it, and some of Contd. on page 14 by the 19th Amendment. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 10 the sunday morning hot seat Sunday, July 26, 2020 BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA We are the Our interest only ones with is in the proper policy people, not CHARITH GALHENA money National Peoples’ Power (NPP) candidate for the Colombo Despite a Supreme Court ruling, District Charith Galhena strongly asserted that a parliament do you think it is the right move must be elected with individuals who genuinely care for the to hold elections during this SUSANTHA DODAWATTE betterment of the country, who would take steps to unite the pandemic? people through education and inclusivity while protecting No, I don’t. We didn’t go before National People’s Power (NPP) Colombo District candidate following the conclusion of the the country’s natural resources. the Supreme Court. Our position Susantha Dodawatte asserted that the NPP is the only war had any real genuine need or option the masses have that would end the existing corrupt Below are excerpts of his interview with The Sunday Morning. was very clear. Article 70 (7) clearly desire to carry out a reconciliation provides as to what the President political system in the country. or accountability process. They can do in the present situation. This Below are excerpts of his interview with The Sunday Morning. have not addressed any of the Why should people vote for you is a situation where the President actual issues of those in the North amidst the thousands of other has dissolved the Parliament Why should people vote for you and East. When we went on to candidates contesting? prematurely. While dissolving, amidst the thousands of other conduct welfare programmes, the

The people should vote for NPP. As a party, our main focus he has to specify when the new candidates contesting? people told us different problems Look at what has happened to the is ensuring that education Parliament has to convene. After We have been giving power to If you look at the two main they face from what politicians country in the past 40 years. Since opportunities are equally the dissolution, the country had just two political parties in the last parties, each candidate is claim they have. For example, 1978, when the open economy given to every citizen of this to face Covid-19. When such an 72 years. But if you look at the given millions of rupees by both the southern politicians was introduced to the country, the country and we believe that emergency in the country arises, the state of the country, economically private individuals for the and the northern and eastern country’s debts to other international education opportunities Constitution has stipulated what the or otherwise, it is clear that this election campaigns. Why politicians use their people for banks and countries have increased, should not depend on the President can do. has been a failure. The country’s are private citizens funding their own political gain. where presently a single citizen has financial capabilities of a What the President could have economy has completely collapsed. political campaigns? It is an In the North and East, there a debt obligation of Rs. 650,000, family done was reconvene Parliament and If you look at our culture and investment are serious issues with regard while these loans and funds have make necessary legislation, fight the politics, those voted into Parliament to clean drinking water. Land is not even been invested properly in pandemic, ensure no second wave are those without any education, also a big issue, as they have not areas where they’re actually needed. occurs, and ensure the Sri Lankan decency, or a genuine love for the got back the land seized by the We have created a bottleneck community abroad is looked after. He nation. The current education method government during the war. There in education when it comes to The economy is currently should have addressed these issues The past 72 years have resulted is flawed. It does not produce are many who are still displaced. opportunity. Only 7.4% of youth of controlled by cutting down and ensured the emergency was over in the deterioration of the country. individuals who can think So it is clear that no government the age range 19-23 have access to on imports but that cannot and then opted for a new election. So I think at a time like this, the for themselves, ask important cared about the actual needs of educational facilities for a degree. be sustained because the masses have realised that voting for questions, and challenge the the people except for their own The health sector too remains with majority of the workforce in What do you see as the issues Sri these same two camps would be hierarchy when it is at fault political mileage. minimum facilities. Sri Lanka is employed in Lanka is facing apart from the useless. They have realised that the Likewise, the country’s economy trades and industries which pandemic? NPP is the best alternative. Corruption in the government and national industries have fallen. depend on imports The biggest issue is that our information regarding the actual and the political sphere has At the last election, we gave an foreign earnings have been A majority enter politics situation. A recent media report continued to worsen over the alternative to the people and came Many attempts to change the largely affected; this is the promising to do good for the revealed that the University of Sri years. What would you do in the up with a proper policy where we existing system in the country foreign employment sector. In country, but once elected, they Jayewardenepura lab had pulled short and long term to resolve addressed all these issues. If you have failed. Why do you think 2018, remittances from foreign change. What guarantee is there out of carrying out PCR testing for this issue? take the main parties, the Sri Lanka that is? employment contributed to about that you won’t end up like that? the Government because the health In the short term, at the least, Podujana Peramuna’s (SLPP) Has anyone actually attempted 25% of all foreign earnings. The The JVP (Janatha Vimukthi authorities were not accepting the authorities should seriously main slogan is to get a two-thirds to change the system? I don’t second highest industry which Peramuna) gives political positive test results of the university look at the complaints received majority while the UNP (United think so. From 1978, when the contributed to foreign earnings is leadership to the NPP. They had labs. So in such a situation, holding against corrupt individuals and National Party) has come up with country transitioned into an open the textile industry, where about six MPs in the last Parliament and the election is very dangerous. bring them to book. Thousands of an internal struggle of their own economy, even though the parties 400,000 people are employed they were among the top 10 MPs Another problem is how the legal cases are gathered in files and are trying to nationalise their have changed, the economic policy and 70% of the cost is for labour. in parliamentary debates. There election campaigns are being without any action being taken. internal party issues. hasn’t. From the J.R. Jayewardene Third is the tourism industry which is enough evidence to show their conducted. We have seen that We know that complaints against regime up to CBK (Chandrika has come to a standstill. Fourth involvement in Parliament on health officials do not enforce ministers are pending for five, six Many people enter politics Bandaranaike Kumaratunga), they is transport such as SriLankan people’s issues. In addition, the health guidelines issued for years or even longer. promising to do good but once had the privilege of going for loans Airlines, and other transportation others contesting from the NPP are campaigning. We saw recently So as a short term measure, elected, the situation changes. at a lesser rate during the Cold War. methods working with foreign all professionals and a glance at that during the President and all investigations must be made What guarantee is there that you But when the Soviet bloc fell, our employment which are running on each individual’s history will show Prime Minister’s rallies, while independent and proper legal won’t end up like that? leaders were left with no options a minimum. So the country is left their credentials and worthiness they observed social distancing action must be followed through in We had several ministries during other than for commercial loans with tea and the ICT industry. easily. measures, the people who came a prompt manner on the findings the Chandrika Bandaranaike with high interest rates. Having said While foreign earnings have to see the politicians were packed of such investigations. Look at Government and we showed how that, going for loans can be justified come down drastically, the country Many attempts to change the into small areas and some weren’t the Avant-Garde case. A case was we can answer these ground-level if that money had been invested is faced with a situation where we existing system have failed. Why even wearing masks. Nevertheless, filed against Avant Garde Maritime issues in the present day context properly. But instead, investments have to pay our loan instalments to do you think this is and do you these two parties will never delay Services for alleged illegal rather than opting for further loans went into projects for the needs China, India, and other countries. think the NPP can succeed? elections because each candidate is activities. But now, Avant-Garde and foreign investments. When our of other countries like China. If The economy is currently controlled Even at the previous presidential earning through their campaigns. has gone before the Presidential leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake you take the Hambantota Port into by cutting down on imports but election, there has been an ever- As a democratic nation, we have Commission of Inquiry on political was a minister, he actually made consideration, we had to go for a that cannot be sustained because present notion as of late that no problem with holding elections; victimisation. It is not possible for MILCO a profitable organisation 99-year lease agreement with China the majority of the workforce in Sri learned, decent, and young leaders what we are saying is that the right Avant-Garde to go and lodge a where the dividends were spread itself. Presently, before the country Lanka is employed in trades and must be elected to clean up the conditions must be there to hold an complaint with the Commission as among farmers. Likewise, when is the MCC (Millennium Challenge industries which depend on imports. Parliament along with the corrupt election. the Commission is not mandated we held the Fisheries Ministry, the Corporation) agreement and both I think we have to look at system. But my personal view is to cover private individuals or country was hit by the tsunami, but major parties are silent. When bringing back our industries. We that it has nothing to do with being What do you see as the key issues organisations, but only complaints we were able to pay damages to the there was a presidential election have to devise mechanisms where learned but to do with having a facing the country apart from the of political victimisation in people who had lost their properties. just around the corner, the UNP we can make maximum use of the genuine need to help the people and pandemic? the state sector. But when the Government gave approval for the resources in the country, utilise the country. This electoral system The main problem is with the Commission accepted the MCC agreement. Meanwhile, the agricultural land, strengthen the too is corrupt, as it is nothing more existing system itself. Politicians Avant-Garde complaint, it was present Government, promising farmers, and minimise post-harvest than a business opportunity for over the years have fixed the a major blow to the independent to withdraw from the agreement wastage. Soon after the election, the politicians. system to benefit themselves. They commissions. earlier, is now keeping silent on country will face the worst period If you look at the two main have purposefully manipulated Therefore, in the long term, the their stance. The actual agreement in its history and I think we have to parties, each candidate is given various aspects. One good example judicial and legal system must is mainly with regard to the sale of have a strong government. millions of rupees by private is the education sector. The current be strengthened. In addition, state land to foreign entities. So individuals for the election education method is flawed. It does the electoral system too must there is no actual change of the How would you go about post-war campaigns. Why are private not produce individuals who can be changed to ensure that all system. reconciliation and the reparation citizens funding political think for themselves, ask important candidates have a level playing process? campaigns? It is an investment. questions, and challenge the field to contest and win a seat in I think that process was badly Once these politicians get elected, hierarchy when it is at fault. The Parliament. Right now, only those handled. The post-war situation they return the favour by pulling current education system teaches with money or power or clout in presented Sri Lanka the perfect strings for the donors. But the only to memorise facts and repeat the media can win an election. opportunity to get back up as a NPP campaign is nothing like that. it at an exam. People are becoming country and develop as one nation. We have a common campaign. data banks, and it doesn’t produce Our neighbouring country We missed that opportunity which We don’t undercut our own party citizens with a conscience. India, the world’s largest was presented to us. Rather than members for the preferential vote. In addition, there are issues with democracy, decriminalised building a bridge between these two That is how we hope to give an free healthcare as well. All these homosexuality in 2018, whereas communities, which were at war example that we are only interested problems were created purposefully it is still a criminal offence in Sri for 30 years, we opted for further in the people and not their money. by politicians of the two ruling Lanka. What is your position on conflicts with other communities parties over the years since the matter? too. If you look at the divide Regardless of the Supreme Court independence, just to ensure that My personal view is that all between the Sinhalese and Muslim ruling, on the lines of social those in power live luxurious lives people must be allowed to live communities, we gradually created wellbeing, do you believe this is at the cost of the masses. This is in peace and harmony regardless a new divide between our people. the right time to hold the election clearly a political game. of their personal space and I strongly believe that parties amidst a pandemic? sexual preferences. Whether should not depend on cheap politics At a time when there appears How would you go about in the homosexuality is decriminalised based on creating hatred among to be a second wave of Covid- post-war reconciliation and the in Sri Lanka is an important communities in the country. 19 emerging, I don’t think accountability process? conversation that must be held. Contd. on page 14 authorities are releasing the real I don’t think any government Contd. on page 14 WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 11 Sunday, July 26, 2020 SPOTLIGHT

© economynext ECT AT COLOMBO PORT Controversy deepens amidst protests

HAMBANTOTA PORT LEASE SLPA debt

East Container Terminal at Colombo Port © lmd.lk

Last week, port trade unions proposal, Minister of Ports and still unsettled declared a “black week” as a Shipping Johnston Fernando has BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA $ 1.12 billion, where the China protest against handing over the The SLPA spent a total of Rs. sought the approval to appoint a Merchants Port would hold 70% development of Colombo Port’s 10.8 billion on this project… Cabinet-Appointed Negotiation The recent cabinet paper submitted by Ports and Shipping of the total share while the SLPA East Container Terminal (ECT) to All that’s needed to be done Committee (CANC) consisting Minister Johnston Fernando has revealed that the would hold the balance 30%. India. is to install the necessary of Secretary to the Ministry of Hambantota Port lease payments received by the country However, CMPHC has made a The trade unions urged the machinery. The SLPA has Ports and Shipping M.M.P.K. during the previous Government have not been utilised $ 584 million payment as part of Government to cancel the the money to do it, but the Mayadunne, Secretary to the by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) to settle the loan the $ 1.12 billion deal described memorandum of co-operation Minister and the Government Ministry of Roads and Highways obtained from the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of China, The above. Notably, the price tag of $ (MoC) signed between Indian, has no interest in it R.W.R. Premasiri, Secretary 1.12 billion is to be used to reduce Japan, and Sri Lanka. to the Ministry of Power and Sunday Morning learnt. the Sri Lankan Government’s debt ACPGWU General Secretary They further urged Prime Chandrasiri Mahagamage Energy Wasantha Perera, Board The Cabinet Memorandum to China. Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa to of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI) No. MPSSD/2019/01/29(V) give them the assurance in writing Director General Dr. Sanjaya dated 9 June 2020 presented To reclaim national that the ECT would not be handed began pressuring the Government Mohottala, and SLPA Managing by the Ministry of Ports and The money has been resources? over to India, despite the Prime to unload the cranes at the ECT. Director W.S. Weeraman. Shipping, under the heading transferred to the Treasury The initial plan to give the Minister’s verbal assurances given They alleged that the delay was Meanwhile, when contacted by “Memorandum of Co-operation through a cabinet paper and Chinese firm an 80% stake had several weeks ago. caused by pressure from the side The Sunday Morning, Secretary to (MoC) for the development of the SLPA has transferred triggered protests by trade unions Port trade unions alleged of Indian as there was a MoC the Ministry of Ports and Shipping the Colombo South Port in Sri the loan to the Treasury. and opposition groups. Earlier, that even though the Premier signed between India, Japan, and Mayadunne said the Government Lanka”, has revealed that the However, while the sum Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna announced that a decision had not Sri Lanka for the development of had not yet taken a final decision Hambantota Port was leased out capital amount might have (SLPP) National Organiser Basil yet been taken by the Government the ECT. on the matter of ECT and that to China Merchants Port Holdings been reduced from the loan Rajapaksa had said that the regarding the development of As explained by Mahagamage, the issue had arisen as the Company Ltd. (CMPHC) on a obtained for the construction agreement had been signed by the ECT, steps have been taken the SLPA had incurred a loss previous Government had only 99-year lease on the promise that of the port, the full loan has the wrong personalities, was not by the authorities to convert the of $ 5.5 billion during the last awarded the tender to purchase the lease proceeds will be used not been repaid a legally valid agreement, and MoC signed under the previous four years due to the delay in equipment while the tender for the to retire foreign loans raised by Treasury Secretary that regardless of who opposed it Government to a memorandum installing the machinery at the construction of the JCT had not the SLPA from the EXIM Bank S.R. Attygalle – China or India – the agreement of understanding (MoU), thereby ECT. been awarded. of China. However, the lease would be annulled and the port giving a legal recognition to the “We have completed work on proceeds of $ 974 million have would be nationalised. tripartite agreement between India, a 450 m section of the terminal, The trade unions doubt the been taken by the Government Port was opened seven years ago, Furthermore, the cabinet Japan, and Sri Lanka. and the SLPA spent a total of Rs. recommendations given by (General Treasury) while no utilising debt from Chinese state- paper states that the SLPA’s Sri Lanka has signed a MoC for 10.8 billion on this project. The the President-appointed retirement of debt has taken place. controlled entities. It has since foreign debt stands at $ 327.8 the development of the ECT with civil engineering activities, the committee, as they claimed Instead, the SLPA’s loans have struggled under heavy losses, million, largely denominated India and Japan on the discussions electrical aspect, and preparation the committee members been transferred to the Treasury. making it impossible to repay its by Japanese yen-denominated among the heads of governments of the entrances are completed. would represent the CANC as The transfer of SLPA’s loans debts. currencies, raised in the past in 2017/19 and on the cabinet All that’s needed to be done is to proposed by the Minister in to the Treasury and the default The first phase of the several years; it also mentioned decisions taken on 30 May 2019. install the necessary machinery. the recent cabinet memo payments for the Hambantota Port Hambantota Port project was that the annual debt service by The MoC provides for the The SLPA has the money to under the previous Government built utilising a $ 307 million loan the SLPA is around 19% of its formation of a terminal operations do it, but the Minister and the “The Cabinet-appointed have been confirmed by Treasury from the EXIM Bank of China at income. Foreign debt represents company (TOC), of which 49% is Government has no interest in it,” committee to look into the matter Secretary S.R. Attygalle. a 6.3% interest rate. As a result of nine Japanese yen loans of Rs. jointly held by Japanese and Indian he stressed. would evaluate the proposal and Speaking to The Sunday the continuous losses incurred by 14.227 million and an Asian shareholders while 51% is held by Meanwhile, as revealed by The give recommendations. Based Morning, he said biannual loan the SLPA, the Port was leased out Development Bank (ADB) loan the SLPA. In terms of the MoC, Sunday Morning last week, the on those recommendations, a repayments would have to be in December 2017 to a company of Rs. 45,254 million. Domestic the TOC was to develop the ECT Ministry of Ports and Shipping decision would be taken by the continued by the Government, as set up by CMPHC for a reported borrowings by the SLPA stand at under a Japanese loan to the SLPA has attempted to present a cabinet Government,” he said. the previous Government failed to lease value of $ 1.12 billion for a Rs. 11 billion and therefore, the guaranteed by the Government of proposal seeking the Cabinet’s Moreover, the five-member settle the loan through payments “99-year lease”. annual debt service by the SLPA Japan. approval to recognise the proposal committee appointed by President received via the Hambantota Port The Port struggled to earn accounts for 24.8% of local However, since mid-June, there submitted by India for the Gotabaya Rajapaksa consists of lease agreement. any profit since its opening, earnings. has been vehement opposition development of the ECT. the Secretaries of the Ministries “The money has been and the former Government Recently, Prime Minister from trade unions attached to The proposal has been submitted of Power and Energy, Ports transferred to the Treasury claimed that the Port was being Mahinda Rajapaksa raised strong the SLPA for handing over the by Adani Ports and Logistics, and Shipping, and Roads and through a cabinet paper and the operated by utilising profits criticism over the decision taken development of the ECT to India one of India’s largest integrated Highways, together with Secretary SLPA has transferred the loan earned by the Colombo Port. by the former Government to and Japan. Instead, the unions infrastructure conglomerates to the Ministry of Industrial to the Treasury. However, while This resulted in some port unions handover the Hambantota Port to have urged the Government to with interests in resources, Export and Investment Promotion the sum capital amount might calling off protests against the China on a 99-year lease. hand it over to the Sri Lanka Ports logistics, energy, and agro, on the M.P.U.D. Mapa Pathirana and have been reduced from the loan Port deal last year, subsequently Speaking at an election rally in Authority (SLPA). recommendations of the Indian SLPA Chairman General (Retd.) obtained for the construction of leading to them supporting the Mahiyangana, the Prime Minister Government during the tenure of Daya Ratnayake. the port, the full loan has not been Government’s decision to lease accused the former Government Only written assurances the previous Government. The committee is expected to repaid,” he added. out the Hambantota Port to China. of selling off property owned by Speaking to The Sunday Furthermore, it has look into matters with regard When asked what had happened Accordingly, the 1,115-hectare Sri Lanka to a foreign country. Morning, All Ceylon Ports General also been revealed in the to the procurement process and to the rest of the funds that came land area in Hambantota Port He also said that despite Workers’ Union (ACPGWU) Cabinet Memorandum No. the delay in the development through the lease agreement, the had been leased out to China obstacles, the current Government General Secretary Chandrasiri MPSSD/2019/01/29(V) submitted of the ECT prior to importing Treasury Secretary stated that the Merchants Port for 99 years for is determined to reclaim the Mahagamage stressed that the on 9 June, as seen by The Sunday equipment in order to evaluate money had been used to service national resources that were lost Government should give a written Morning, that the new Government the agreements entered into with other loans and also for monthly to international agreements. assurance that it would not hand had informed the Governments of foreign nations by the SLPA, and expenses of the Treasury. However, the Chinese Embassy over the development of the ECT Japan and India that it will honour also to look for the responsible “Now, we have to repay the The loan repayments are tweeted saying consecutive to India. the MoC signed by the previous persons for the activities loan to the EXIM Bank of China,” usually done by the Finance governments in Sri Lanka invited “We are pressuring the Government on the condition mentioned above. Moreover, he stressed. Ministry through the Central Chinese companies to build and Government not to handover (the that the Government of Sri Lanka the committee was requested However, when contacted by Bank of Sri Lanka jointly operate the Hambantota development of) the ECT to India or the SLPA will not borrow to submit proposals for the The Sunday Morning, former Former Ministry of Finance Port. or any other country as it is one further or provide guarantees development of the ECT. Ministry of Finance Director ERD DG The Embassy said that the deal of the most important terminals of but will support foreign direct Furthermore, the committee General (DG) of the External Priyantha Rathnayake ensures Sri Lanka’s ownership, the Colombo Port and therefore, investment (FDI) in the ECT while was requested to prepare a report Resources Department (ERD) defence, and sovereignty. should be owned by the SLPA,” maintaining 51% of the equity within 45 days from 3 July. Priyantha Rathnayake said none he said, adding that employees share in the TOC of the ECT. The trade unions doubt the of the loan repayments were couldn’t trust verbal assurances By submitting the cabinet recommendations given by the defaulted during the previous given by politicians, which is why President-appointed committee, Government. they urged the Prime Minister as they claimed the committee “The loan repayments are to give an assurance in writing members would represent the usually done by the Finance that ECT would be kept with the The Cabinet-appointed CANC as proposed by the Ministry through the Central Bank SLPA. committee to look into the Minister in the recent cabinet of Sri Lanka (CBSL),” he added. The ECT issue has prevailed matter would evaluate memo. Meanwhile, Ministry of Ports for many years, but it recently the proposal and give When asked whether the cranes and Shipping Secretary M.M.P.K. came to light with receiving recommendations. Based on unloaded at the ECT would be Mayadunne told The Sunday China-manufactured cranes to the those recommendations, a installed, Mayadunne stressed Morning that all matters with Jaya Container Terminal (JCT), decision would be taken by the that the cranes were unloaded at regard to the Hambantota Port in which the construction work is Government the ECT as a temporary solution, are now being handled by the yet to be completed. As soon as Secretary to the Ministry of as the JCT was not ready yet, and Treasury. the cranes arrived in Colombo, Ports and Shipping therefore, necessary steps would More pumped in than out the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna M.M.P.K. Mayadunne be taken in the future. (SLPP)-affiliated trade union – Maheesha Mudugamuwa The $ 1.3 billion Hambantota WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 12 the sunday morning VIEWS Sunday, July 26, 2020

BY PUJANEE GALAPPATHTHI should just go for it and try to unravel the stories of our ancestry. In an attempt to explore the many stories of “King Ravana”, Sri Lanka’s Civil Aviation Authority last week Will support tourism put out a public advertisement, Shenal Wijesinghe – assistant seeking to obtain any relevant marketing consultant documents and literature in the Digging up lost The story of King Ravana, as far as I am possession of the general public about aviation techniques and concerned, is a legendary one; something we routes supposedly employed by were told by our grandparents as children. In these stories, we were told that the so-called King Ravana. King Ravana had aviation technology and Referred to by many as a beautiful used it to bring Sita to our country. Whatever legend, the story of King Ravana and his it may be, I believe it is an interesting lost aviation technology has caused quite technologies venture, as a luscious historical story will a lot of disputes amongst Sri Lankans, improve the exotic allure of our island as a from the beginning of time. To explore the tourist hub. I am in support of this venture mixed opinions borne within society on z because I believe it will support our tourism this venture and the story of King Ravana, Archiving Ravana’s flight technologies economy in the long run. The Sunday Morning spoke to a cross- section of society. The following is what Unnecessary they had to say. fabrication Insight into valuable Sithara Liyanage – technology young entrepreneur I feel like this is simply a ploy to snag Lahiru Pramod Gamage – money from tourists and researchers banker, traveller, and diver at following corona. These things are simply the Professional Association of fabricated to make the public feel important Diving Instructors (PADI) and proud of our heritage, which is good in a way, but just unnecessary. I believe this is the time to think about finding a solution to survive the pandemic and improving the quality of life of the citizens of our country. Waste of time Anjalee Ranasinghe – head of the secretarial division at a reputed law firm in Colombo

Yes, I do believe in the story of King Ravana. There are so many reliable sources that confirm King Ravana was real and that he possessed an airplane called the “Dhadu Monaraya”, which used mercury as fuel, it is believed. Sources depict that King Ravana travelled all over the world and extended a helping hand to other countries Researching King Ravana’s supposed in times of crisis. One confirmed source aviation technology is like finding out about was a painting which is in a pyramid of the creation of calculators in an age where Egypt; a drawing of war, and there was an we have computers. I think it is simply a object like an airplane in it. As per people waste of time. By simply putting together who research paintings, the ancient letters literature that was written decades ago, it translate that “a powerful person came is impossible to prove anything and even if from the Lion Nation and helped them in they did, what will we achieve? The time their war, and that powerful person came and money invested in this kind of venture from the sky”. So I believe a study on this can be utilised to improve the standard of our technology will not only clear up disputes economy, feed our families, and increase the of our history but also give us insight into standard of living of our people. valuable technology that might help us in many ways. Scientific evidence Putting Sri Lanka on and hypotheses Chamara Dilshan – doctor the global map In Sri Lanka, the great legend of King Gulzar Ahamed – Co-Founder at Ravana always provokes one, with his Global Strategic Network great technology of aviation. Although there is no physical evidence to prove it, there is much scientific evidence which can the right individuals handle it, it should also a great ruler according to Sri Lankan be a hypothesis to assume there was such be okay. Moreover, this will facilitate mythology. I am not a firm believer of Unravelling stories technology in Sri Lanka. Further explaining Sri Lankan history being learnt globally, (King) Ravana or the fact that he had the one such hypothesis, in aviation technology, taking this magnificent country forward. technology in that day and age to fly in an of ancestry there are many facts to consider when It will also change the whole outlook aircraft. Unless proven otherwise it is kind Anjalee Fernando – student at deciding on a place to make a spacecraft of what Sri Lanka was, is, and will be of impossible to believe in something like the Faculty of Management of station. Gravity is one such consideration. capable of in the coming years. that. the University of Colombo When launching or landing a spacecraft, it It would be really good if more people must overcome the gravity of that area. If the Bringing about get to know the facts about King Ravana I believe this venture is a very good idea. gravity of that area is low, it is easy to launch and his aviation. Now is the time and not There are quite a lot of sheds of evidence and land the spacecraft and minimises fuel massive change later. So I’m fully on board with this venture on the existence of a king named Ravana consumption. in gathering more information about this in other cultures such as the Ramayana, On Earth, the least gravitational area Phillip* – accounts executive matter. although we do not acknowledge it in is situated in Sri Lanka! According to a This is a very intriguing topic. The During school times we were not taught our history. There are so many people gravity map prepared by NASA (National relevant parties must carry on with their about King Ravana. We were always taught in our country in possession of certain Aeronautics and Space Administration), the This story changes everything we know investigations on this. If sufficient evidence about Prince Vijaya and how he became the historical artefacts and evidence of a richer lowest gravitational area is shown in Sri about aviation, from the Wright brothers in this regard is collected, our entire history first king in Sri Lanka. If these myths are heritage, so urging them to come forward Lanka. So if there was aviation technology to bringing forth a tiny island in the will change because currently, we only proven to be true, the history of our country with the information they have on this in the ancient world, it may have arisen from Indian Ocean to the limelight as a country believe history of 2,500 years and history will be even richer and more beautiful than topic will be a wonderful improvement Sri Lanka. On the other hand, if this venture that’s going to shake the very bedrock of we gained from India. So this will bring it already is. Our younger generation should to research processes carried out by the is implemented, Sri Lanka may be a main history. It’s something to appreciate as about massive change. To be frank, I am be taught about our history as well and must relevant authorities. I further believe that spacecraft station in the future. this will not only boost public interest but not fully aware of King Ravana. I’ve only take pride in what our kings and ancestors conducting such research has no negative *Name has been changed to maintain also positively attract tourism. As long as heard stories about how he was evil but have done for this great nation. impact on the country. Therefore, we anonymity

Contd. from page 3

workers and institute legal action.” the provisions of the collective there is no retirement benefit. At the private companies, but it is only He also blamed the unions of agreement. this particular moment, there is for those who are agreeable to this. Bitter cuppa... politicising the issue, adding: “The Open for discussion no plan to introduce a pension Trade unions must be informed of unions are with the Government, scheme either. It is definitely open these irregularities. We should be “I have spoken with the ILO and Periyasamy Muthulingam told The so they don’t take action. All these Meanwhile, Minister of Plantation for discussion, but it has to be a able to talk to them,” he said, adding they have requested further details Sunday Morning that estate unions unions have become politicians. Industries and Export Agriculture contributory one. Even to cover the that proposals had been made to on the matter. I will be submitting are letting down the workers by They don’t fight for the workers’ Dr. Ramesh Pathirana too admitted tea smallholders, we are thinking of transition to an outgrower model the documents, although the failing to take legal action on their rights. They have failed the that there were no retirement something of that nature.” consisting of proper benefits and pandemic has caused the delay. In behalf. workers.” benefits for the estate workers. When The Sunday Morning rules. fact, I moved a motion in Parliament “According to the collective ISD is a NGO based in Kandy, “They are paid EPF/ETF, but queried as to what the shortcomings “We are talking on broader terms earlier this year in February, agreement, they must give 25 days established to empower the there is not pension as such. A of the plantation companies are to ensure whether we can establish demanding the plantation sector of work – not just 15 days of work marginalised and discriminated pension scheme was proposed some in providing EPF/ETF for the an outgrower model with proper be restructured according to the – and then ask the workers to work plantation community in Sri time ago by the Government of outgrower system, the Dr. Pathirana rules and regulations. That is one of tea smallholder model and not the according to the outgrower model. Lanka. Muthulingam said that Mahinda Rajapaksa, which was sort said that it was not a government the options forwarded by the trade outgrower model.” There is a grave injustice being done his organisation was conducting of a contributory pension scheme. policy and that unions must address unions in relation to the proposed Institute of Social Development to the workers by the private sector. programmes to enlighten workers But the private sector did not wish the issue. salary hike for the plantation (ISD) Executive Director The unions must stand up for the on their labour rights as well as to go ahead with it. Therefore, “That is something proposed by workers.” WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 13 Sunday, July 26, 2020 FOCUS

ABUSE OF UNDERAGE CHILDREN A CONTINUOUS MENACE

BY MAHIKA PANDITHA believes that she is going to marry victim-blaming, and repressive have not acted on the urges) can get him, and lastly with or without culture is the very reason women help without judgement from mental Child sexual abuse is an issue that is prevalent all over the consent when she is under the age don’t feel safe even going to the health professionals and be sure world. Most recently, there was the case of a 10-year old girl of 12. Police to lodge a complaint. confidentiality will be upheld.” who was raped by her stepfather and passed away from blood Moreover, Dr. Wickramanayaka Child Protection Force Founder Nevertheless, it is vital that victims loss. The Police had conducted a search through her home and added: “In 2010, when the NCPA Attorney-at-Law Milani Salpitikorala bear in mind that they do have the found clothes with blood buried. (National Child Protection commented that Sri Lanka’s legal rights to move ahead and gain Authority) was digitalised, there systems and laws on child rights justice. Then there was the case of the Role of education were 986 cases of cruelty to children/ are fortunately in place. “If you ask Salpitikorala noted the importance 16-month-old baby, who was raped Feminist, activist, and writer domestic violence and 306 cases me, the problem is implementation. of empowering the child, family, and and murdered by a 22-year-old man. Sharanya Sekaram stated that of sexual abuse/rape/exploitation/ There are a few issues at hand. finally the actors who work closely The common political slogan She was subsequently found inside a comprehensive sexuality and harassment. The total was 3,892 Firstly, the public is unaware of with the children. that children are the true toilet in Negombo. relationship education is key at cases. In 2019, the numbers of cases positive practices to create a safe “The common political slogan that beneficiaries of the future and 17-year-old Himasha Devmini this juncture. “It is early on that increased and were 2,421 and 594, space for children. Unnecessary children are the true beneficiaries that they must be protected is passed away whilst being treated we teach our children principles respectively. However, the most attention is given to corrupt politics of the future and that they must be ironically laughable when there in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of of consent and trust. There are alarming figure is the introduction and things that are dramatised by the protected is ironically laughable is a serious flaw in the protection the Balangoda Base Hospital after various exercises. For example, of the ‘miscellaneous’ category in media,” she said, adding that at least when there is a serious flaw in the of the “true beneficiaries of the being abused by a 24-year-old man. with three year olds, we talk 2012 (1,216 cases) and 2,622 cases 90% of the policymakers and state protection of the ‘true beneficiaries future” The girl was visiting a tailor to have about a comfortable touch and an in 2018, higher than all the other heads are not interested in creating of the future’,” Dr. Wickramanayaka Stop Child Cruelty Trust Founder her uniforms fitted on 5 July but uncomfortable touch and what to cases. These have no conclusion and a safe network for children. Why? stressed. Chairperson did not return home, which is when do if someone touches you in a this figure is mysteriously missing in “Simply because children do not Additionally, Dr. Amarasuriya Dr. Tush Wickramanayaka a report was filed. She was found way that makes you uncomfortable. 2019. Therefore, the data of 2019 is have a vote,” Salpitikorala said. added: “It is not only the perpetrators unconscious later that day in the We talk to them about their body, highly questionable.” “Secondly, our systems have some of child sexual abuse who are house of the abuser. the proper names for their private In Sri Lanka, the age of consent extremely hardworking officers at responsible, but also all those in Speaking to The Sunday parts, who can touch those private is 16 years. In the 2019 Grave the ground level. However, they society, especially those in positions Morning, Stop Child Cruelty Trust parts and who shouldn’t be, and in Crimes Abstract Report of are extremely under resourced, of leadership and influence.” Founder Chairperson Dr. Tush what situations they can be touching the Sri Lanka Police, it was financially and otherwise. The Solutions Wickramanayaka shared: “All them,” Sekaram explained. reported that 296 women international non-governmental forms of crimes against children are Child rights activist and voice under the age of 16 had been organisations (NGOs) may be doing With regard to other definite escalating in Sri Lanka.” trainer Kumudini Perera-David raped without consent quite a lot of advocacy work around solutions for this issue, Dr. Commenting on the incident, shared that she’s a survivor of child the country, but we feel that most of Wickramanayaka recommended the talk show host, brand consultant, sexual abuse. “I was three years old Despite the Penal Code the resources get distributed at the following: and advocate Shanuki de Alwis when it started. I was used until I establishing laws to put a halt to top level. yy Create two separate ministries for said: “Sadly, this is not an isolated was around seven-and-a-half years such acts, there are loopholes within “Thirdly, the delay in the justice women and children – so that the incident and it is just one incident of old. Sexual molestation is even a the laws itself which do not protect system is also an issue. The justice two most vulnerable communities many reported, amongst thousands part of initiation rites in a number of everyone. system and media play a huge role We scoff at equality narratives will have focused attention in upon thousands that go unreported. schools in Colombo. It’s so prevalent The laws do not take into in the secondary victimisation of and the need for psychological terms of problem resolution. This issue of violence against in some boys’ schools that it’s consideration that a male can be children who come into contact intervention. So is it a wonder women and girls has become so brushed aside as ‘a part of growing raped, thereby providing no path with the system. Again, there were yy Stop identifying the victims or then that we keep producing normalised in society that we gasp at up’ or that ‘it’s all a part of becoming of justice for a boy who is sexually methods proposed for juvenile abusers – due to the social stigma angry, disengaged men with no the news and then just move on with a man’.” abused. Further, the Penal Code justice, but none of those were and persecution of victims, sense of morals and humanity? Talk show host, brand consultant, our lives. Furthermore, Open University of excludes any other rape that is not actually implemented,” Salpitikorala many do not come forward. The and advocate Shanuki de Alwis “We are all to blame, by Sri Lanka (OUSL) Senior Lecturer penile-vaginal penetration. noted. identification of victims of sexual continuing to raise children under Dr. Harini Amarasuriya added: “The It is an unfortunate situation abuse (Section 365B) and cruelty these absurd norms of teaching toxic sexual culture is more dangerous The system wherein children are afraid to speak of children (Section 308A) is girls to be afraid and holding on to in my view because it breeds “We all know that our court up about their abuse to their parents protected by Section 365C. the ‘boys will be boys’ excuse. We violent, predatory, and misogynistic system is slow and inefficient, which or a trusted adult when it happens. yy scoff at equality narratives and the behaviour. It valorises it.” needs to be amended with regard Perera-David shared that she Implement the current laws effectively. need for psychological intervention. The law to children, because it’s different; was in her mid-20s when she So, is it a wonder then that we it is a lot of traumatic experiences started looking for help. “It was yy Rehabilitation – there must be keep producing angry, disengaged In Sri Lanka, the age of consent is that they are being asked to relive. also at this time that I learnt what a more robust and transparent men with no sense of morals and 16 years. In the 2019 Grave Crimes Probationary centres, orphanages, happened to me was a crime. It is rehabilitation programme for the humanity?” Abstract Report of the Sri Lanka and children’s homes must be incredibly hard to ask for help even victim and abusers. A registry of The World Health Organisation Police, it was reported that 296 looked at too. There have been huge when you’re an adult. Children child abusers must be maintained, (WHO) has stated that child sexual women under the age of 16 had been allegations of torture, sexual abuse, do not know how to ask for help. psychology therapy and family abuse is the involvement of a child raped without consent. This refers and more in these centres but nothing Especially if they don’t know they therapy must be conducted, in sexual activity that he or she does only to the “reported” cases and that is really being done to investigate it,” are supposed to or even have a right all parties must be regularly The justice system and media not fully comprehend, is unable too for the one year. Under the Penal Sekaram noted. to. I wish there was someone who monitored, etc. The purpose of play a huge role in the secondary to give informed consent to, is Code of Sri Lanka, rape is defined It is also of paramount importance could have told me that it wasn’t the penitentiary is to protect the victimisation of children not developmentally prepared for, under Section 363; a man is said that there is an open line of my fault that this happened to me,” citizens from criminals. However, who come into contact with or that violates the laws or social to commit “rape” who has sexual communication between citizens and Perera-David continued, stating these criminals must be integrated the system. Again, there were taboos of society. It is evidenced by intercourse with a woman under law enforcement officials about these that survivors battle depression, into society as useful citizens as special methods proposed for this activity between a child and an circumstances falling under any matters. anxiety, and post-traumatic stress well. juvenile justice which were to be adult or another child who by age or of the five following descriptions, De Alwis shared that she has disorder (PTSD). “Most abusers All attempts made by The Sunday expedited, but none of those were development is in a relationship of which are, against the woman’s will, experienced first-hand how the are survivors of abuse themselves Morning to contact the National actually implemented responsibility, trust, or power; the without consent, with consent which existing female officers also often with unresolved psychological Child Protection Authority (NCPA), Child Protection Force Founder activity being intended to gratify or has been given out of intimidation/ conform to these patriarchal, sexist damage. It is not widely known but the Police Media Spokesman, and Attorney-at-Law satisfy the needs of the other person. fear, with consent but the man is attitudes because of their own social paedosexuals (people who have government officials for comments Milani Salpitikorala aware that he is not her husband but upbringing. The revictimisation, sexual urges towards children but were futile.

Contd. from page 7 yy Tamils are a unique national race with devolution arrangement is to ensure the The country... Furthermore, I would like to reiterate Ensure shared... its own civilisation, language, culture, security of the land and the Tamil people; that I am not here to play party politics; In fact, such an arrangement has become and heritage. Also, the Tamil people who law and order and law enforcement, as Speaking on the future of Sri Lanka’s I am contesting so that if I am elected, essential for the sustainability of the have been living in the island since time well as the elements of socioeconomic politics, I feel there are only a handful I can address many of the underlying citizens. Looking at the recommendations immemorial are living with the Sinhalese development such as health, education, of political figures that can inspire issues the youths are facing at present. of the parliamentary select committees people and other people in this island higher education, and vocational training, youths to enter politics. However, We as Sri Lankans need to ensure agriculture, fisheries, industry, livestock drawn up over the last 30 years and the yy The North-East Provinces, which most of these politicians lack a clear that the development of the country is development, culture, and domestic constitutional proposals based on them, are geographically bound and have a vision in their political journey and carried out in an equal manner, so that affairs successive governments have moved majority Tamil-speaking population, are are easily influenced. The future of when the South or West of the country towards a cohesive structure. the native habitat of the Tamil people and yy Should also be on the mobilisation of politics is therefore unstable, as we is rapidly developing, the same amount Negotiations were held with the the Tamil-speaking population resources and financial authority from also lack outspoken youths willing to of focus is given to other parts of the governments on the basis of such proposals, abroad get into politics and work towards the island as well. and we will continue to pursue these yy The Tamil people are entitled to the right betterment of the citizens of Sri Lanka. Moreover, it is important that we endeavours regardless of any future of self-determination on the basis of their yy All of the above must be implemented Most importantly, the country should have a language that bridges the challenges. Whenever sincere efforts are rights as a separate people in accordance and implemented through dialogue on a be rid of corrupt politicians and entities Sinhala and Tamil youths who aren’t made to bring about national reconciliation, with the provisions of the United Nations non-violent peace process within a united who presume that their influence can familiar with either language; this we are obliged to repay accordingly. Charter on Citizenship and Political and undivided Sri Lanka bend the law of the land and allow a means a third language, such as Rights and the Charter on Economic, The principles and exclusive yy The Tamil-speaking Muslims, the corrupt system to govern the country. English, needs to be taught to every Social, and Cultural Rights, adopted by constitutional provisions that the TNA historical inhabitants of the North and As a young politician, that is my child. That will bridge the divide that Sri Lanka considers essential to the solution of the East, are entitled to the benefits of all aspiration. our mother tongues have created. national ethnic problem are primarily aimed yy Decentralisation arrangements must devolution arrangements at ensuring shared sovereignty through continue to be implemented within the the sharing of power between the various harmonious framework of a unified *The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Vote in allowed to peacefully enjoy their peoples living in the island. north-eastern unit as before. It must comprises the Ilankai Tamil Arsu Kachchi lives under a united government. The TNA believes that the following be such that it does not have any (ITAK), Ealam People’s Revolutionary This can only be achieved by voting power-sharing principles are important for contradictory impact on any of the people Liberation Front (EPRLF), People’s politicians... in politicians who can improve the achieving genuine reconciliation, lasting living in the North and East Liberation Organisation of Tamil Ealam At the end of the day, what really quality of life of everyone by taking peace, and development common to all Sri (PLOTE), Tamil Ealam Liberation matters is that every citizen in this an interest in the common man’s Lankans; yy Of shared sovereignty; the basis of the Organisation (TELO) country is afforded equality and is problems. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER 14 the sunday morning POLITICS/HOT SEAT Sunday, July 26, 2020

Contd. from page 9 In your manifesto, you speak of development, cultural affairs, securing more funding from the Caretaker Cabinet... mustering of resources both In politics, you... IMF (International Monetary domestic and foreign, and fiscal Fund). Some accuse your Nominations and donkeys would be taken against Wahhabist powers,” it said. We are dependent on exports. with the US? Government of having followed extremists and that they would not The manifesto also emphasised If Europe says they are going to Why not? We are at the centre of every condition the IMF put Meanwhile, a statement made by be a part of any government that that the contiguous preponderantly manufacture apparel or if rich the Indian Ocean and the UNP has forward during the Extended actress turned politician and SLPP agrees to support such Wahhabist Tamil-speaking Northern and countries stopped allowing their managed these relationships quite Fund Facility over the past four Badulla District candidate Oshadi elements. Eastern Provinces are the historical people to travel abroad, Sri Lanka well, including with India, Japan, years. Would it be more of the Hewamadduma on the candidates The MoU also noted that all habitation areas of the Tamil people would be affected. China, the US, and Europe. same next time? fielded by the SLPP through its action would be taken to ensure the and the Tamil-speaking peoples The world is becoming globalised No. We had our plans and we lists for the upcoming general sovereignty of the country and to and the Tamils are a distinct people and you can’t just look at domestic Recently, the Sri Lanka Ports implemented them. At times we election drew sharp ire from SLPP fight against any form of US and with their own culture, civilisation, industries. Many of our industries Authority (SLPA) stated that disagreed with the IMF and those theoretician and political godfather western expansionism and global language, and heritage and since are becoming competitive and they it had not received the lease times, we sat down, discussed it, Basil Rajapaksa. separatism. time immemorial, have inhabited are able to compete with imports. payments made by China to your and compromised. That’s how In a rare public display, Basil Another pledge was that, if the this island together with the Most of our production is domestic. Government despite these being any government deals with the Rajapaksa decided to make his SLPP faction wins the election, a Sinhalese people and others. I don’t think imports have knocked owed. Why was it not given to the IMF. displeasure known in public by system would be re-established to The party reiterated all these anyone out (of the local market). SLPA? referring to the matter during a revive the uniqueness of Sri Lanka can be enacted and implemented The reality is that SMEs (small The Treasury decided that it You have been calling for youths public meeting. and to create a better future for this within the framework of a united and medium-sized enterprises) have was more advantageous for the to come forward within your He told a public gathering last country. and undivided Sri Lanka through a to buy their raw materials, so when money to go into our reserves. party. In that spirit, what is the week that one of the party’s female “When we were in the process of non-violent and peaceful you ban raw material imports, then So it boosted our reserves by $ 1 succession plan of the UNP? candidates had sent him a message Opposition, we made numerous negotiations. our smaller industries get affected. billion, strengthening the rupee. It’s Parties don’t have succession saying that there were “horses promises to the people of this The TNA said all Tamil-speaking a government decision whether to plans. Parties must decide who and donkeys” fielded in the SLPP country,” Gammanpila said. “This Muslim historical inhabitants shall But we have been running huge give it to the Ports Authority or not. the next leader should be when candidates lists. agreement is proof of our promise.” be entitled to be beneficiaries of all trade deficits year after year, If they (SLPA) keep earning, they the leader steps down. It’s not “She sent the message and asked power-sharing arrangements in the haven’t we? won’t need that. like British royalty where there is what I thought about it. She wanted TNA pushes for solutions North and East. The solution to trade deficits is a Prince of Wales and a number to know what I had to say to the The Tamil National Alliance The TNA manifesto also referred not cutting imports, but increasing Do you think the relative failure three and number four. comment,” he told the gathering. (TNA), in its election manifesto, to the militarisation of the North exports. We ran trade deficits because of your Government has eroded The SLPP senior then went on to strongly advocated for a and East and said it firmly believes the 2005-2015 Government didn’t confidence in the idea of national But should you not be grooming say that his response was: “There constitutional arrangement on that in a democracy, the military’s encourage exports; they just depended governments for good? someone? are no horses or donkeys in the the model of federalism to meet role is one that is clearly delineated on the traditional garment industry. I don’t think people will go for No, you don’t groom (one SLPP lists, but there would have the legitimate aspirations of the and should be subject to civilian multiparty governments without a person) in politics. You groom a lot been a donkey in the nominations Tamils and other Tamil-speaking authority and oversight. The MCC (Millennium Challenge leading partner. That is one reason of young people and some of them board to have given nominations to inhabitants of the North and East “The TNA will continue to Corporation) agreement in its I said we should come back as the will emerge as the leader. You can’t someone like her.” and reiterated that this can be challenge the rapid remilitarisation current form was brought in by UNP and not under other names, handpick anyone. achieved within the framework of of democratic space and institutions your Government. It has proven because we paid the price. Mervyn dashes coconuts a united and undivided Sri Lanka and call for demilitarisation by extremely controversial. Do you Even at the presidential election, How much responsibility do Mervyn Silva, who is contesting through a process of non-violent using multiple means, including still believe this Government we came under the swan, which is you take for the loss in the 2019 from the UNP in the Anuradhapura and peaceful negotiations. through parliamentary processes, should sign it? what former President Maithripala presidential election? District, was last week seen on The TNA, the alliance led by international advocacy, and They will sign it, and there’s Sirisena contested under, and (that) I was not the candidate and it social media dashing coconuts. the Illankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi supporting those whose civic rights nothing wrong with it. It’s an aid was associated with that type of was not the UNP. Collectively, we The notorious politician last week (ITAK), launched its manifesto for are being curbed or violated due to programme. But this Government government. The elephant symbol will take responsibility, but I can’t made his way to the Kathiresan the 2020 parliamentary election at militarisation,” it said. should tell the public that they would have helped us more. take more than the usual amount Kovil in Anuradhapura, seeking the ITAK headquarters in Jaffna last The TNA also said it will are going to sign it. They have to of responsibility a party should divine intervention to punish those Saturday (18). continue to advocate for an explain it to their own supporters Will you partner the Sri Lanka take. Ideally, we should have had a whom he accused of trying to “The principles and specific independent international and Viyathmaga. Why are you Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) different strategy. destroy the country’s culture and constitutional provisions that the mechanism for justice and asking me? after the election, as expected by heritage. TNA considers to be paramount accountability as their efforts made many? You have always adopted a less Handing over his offerings to to the resolution of the national in good faith to seek justice within What was the wisdom behind We can’t go together with the confrontational style of politics. the priest at the kovil, he wanted question relate mainly to Sri Lanka have not borne success. giving the ECT (East Container Pohottuwa, which is an anti-UNP Do you think that is what Sri to pray for divine intervention to the sharing of the powers of The TNA manifesto also refers Terminal) to India when India party. It was specifically formed Lankan voters enjoy, or do they punish the perpetrators. governance through a shared to attempts to curb civil liberties has ports that compete with the because the SLFP worked with the prefer a more aggressive style? “I don’t want anything and don’t sovereignty amongst the peoples and the surveillance, harassment, Colombo Port? UNP. So how can we go with an Politics must be non- pray for me. Please pray and seek who inhabit this island,” the and intimidation to which civil Sri Lanka’s transhipment goes anti-UNP force? confrontational. Meanwhile, we can God’s intervention to punish these manifesto said. society organisations, activists, and to India. So we must not be have sharp ideological differences. perpetrators,” Silva said. The TNA said that its demands journalists in the region have been antagonistic towards the Indians What are your views on what Generally, people like that. After offering prayers, Silva and for power-sharing arrangements subjected. and risk having levies placed on some call the ‘militarisation’ of There are times that they may a group of his supports dashed are based upon several principles, “The TNA will challenge these transhipment coming from outside. Sri Lanka since November 2019? want a different style. But most of coconuts outside the kovil. which are fundamental to achieving repressive measures, through There’s no way one port in India We are asking for a government the time, and today especially, they Be that as it may, the incident genuine reconciliation, lasting parliamentary processes, legal can meet India’s demand. The port to run a country within the normal want a less confrontational system Silva was referring to was the peace, and development for all the interventions, and international on the west coast can’t meet the democratic structure where the where there is general agreement controversial demolition of a people of Sri Lanka. advocacy,” it said. The manifesto demands of the east coast. In another civilian administration does its work among parties on long-term and historically important building in The manifesto stated power- also addresses several other 10 years, transhipment to India will and the armed forces do their task. medium-term goals. And you go Kurunegala. The issue has become sharing arrangements must continue issues such as reparations, double. That’s why we have to work before the electorate with your yet another intraparty conflict to be established as they existed memorialisation, the Prevention of with India. They have an interest in How much time would you need short-term policies. within the SLPP and has now earlier in a unit of merged Northern Terrorism Act (PTA) and political the Colombo Harbour, which is still to achieve economic recovery, and That’s what happens in the UK or become the centre of a police probe and Eastern Provinces based on a prisoners, socioeconomic security, the most efficient one, and they will will it be based on taking loans the US. At the end of the day, their and judicial intervention. federal structure, in a manner that the rights of the displaced people, use the Colombo Harbour in addition over loans? long and medium-term interests are does not inflict any disadvantage on rebuilding the lives of former to developing a transhipment port Every country today is taking the same. It’s how you play to the Wimal-Udaya unison any people. combatants, and the role of the or two in India. Our competitors are loans, even England and the US. short term that gives basic stability The National Freedom Front The TNA said that the Tamil international community. the Dubai and Middle Eastern ports The question is where to borrow to the non-political sector, be it (NFF) led by Minister Wimal people are entitled to the right which try to come to the west coast. from – your own market or outside? business, academic, or even social, Weerawansa and the Pivithuru Hela to self-determination in keeping T-minus 10 Secondly, India also has long- There will be higher debt levels enabling them to do their planning Urumaya (HU) led by former MP with the United Nations (UN) With just 10 days to go before term interest in the development for all governments in the world. and carry on their activities. You Udaya Gammanpila last week signed International Covenants on Civil the parliamentary election, the of Trincomalee, which could serve Not a single government will be can’t change those policies every a Memorandum of Understanding and Political Rights and Economic, battle lines are clearly drawn. their eastern side. able to escape that, including the oil three or four years. (MoU) based on five clauses. Social, and Cultural Rights, both of Unlike any previous general We have to be a logistics centre states of the Middle East. The five clauses include national which Sri Lanka has accepted and election, the public’s attention this for the region, and the bulk of our But you need a minimum of three Finally, how many seats are security, the strengthening of a acceded to. time has been drawn not just to cargo will go into India. years (for economic recovery) if the you hoping for at the upcoming national economy, and ensuring that “Devolution of power on the speeches from one party criticising So I think there is also reason for health crisis doesn’t spill over to election? the aspirations of the 6.9 million basis of shared sovereignty shall another, but to members of a party another port. But India must have a next year. The apparel retail sectors We need the majority to form a persons who voted for President be over land, law and order, criticising each other, threatening stake in each of these ports so that in the West, which Sri Lanka is government, and that’s what we are Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the last enforcement of the law so as to their internal vote bases. Whether they realise “these are our (India’s) dependent on, are collapsing. A lot working towards. presidential election are met. ensure the safety and security of this dynamic will shift the ground ports, this is for our convenience”. of small-time tourist operators in The MoU was signed at the Tamil people, socioeconomic and make the election more than the West are going out of business But realistically, what are your Weerawanasa’s political office development including inter alia a referendum on the government, Is it possible for a small country and a fair amount of our tourism is expectations? located in Battaramulla. health, education, higher and into a choice between function and like Sri Lanka to balance the from small-time tourist operators. That’s what we are working The agreement between the two vocational education, agriculture, dysfunction, remains for the voters global power struggle between the As these are big ifs, we have to be towards. You can’t tell people “give parties also state that united action fisheries, industries, livestock to decide. US and China, with India siding ready for anything. me 75 and I’ll form a government!”

Contd. from page 10

– a metropolitan city near the sea – being at risk. What steps would you take to curb We are the... pollution and promote green energy? Our interest... How do you propose to address this long- opportunity being ensured in every aspect – It’s not only environmental pollution. standing social issue? socially, culturally, economically, and especially Presently, safeguarding the very little resources I have no objection to giving logical manner. That’s why we It can only be addressed with a party educationally. As a party, our main focus is and forests that we have has been one of the opportunities to those fighting constantly see carpeted roads structure, policy, and politics which would ensuring that education opportunities are equally major issues. This week too there was another for the rights of the LGBTQ being dug up to install new address the actual issues of this country. If you given to every citizen of this country and we leopard that was caught in a trap. After this community. If you look at the power lines, then carpeted, and look at how the divide was brought in – after believe that education opportunities should not Government came into power, one of the first developed world, all countries then dug up once again to install independence, when the power needed to shift depend on the financial capabilities of a family. steps they took was to cancel the requirement of have accepted this. I don’t a water line. So there is no real from the Senanayakes to the Bandaranaikes – I think if equal opportunities are created in all a license for the transportation of sand, which believe there should be any legal method of city planning. Another the latter opted to go for a very popular Sinhala- these sectors, this divide can be lessened. ultimately led to the complete devastation of barriers to one’s personal sexual serious problem is that citizens only policy which resulted in a major portion of our riverbeds and uncontrolled and unregulated preferences. have no self-discipline. Even to the Burgher community of Sri Lanka migrating India decriminalised homosexuality in 2018 mining of sand in most parts of the country. this day, we see people throw and causing a huge divide between the but it is still a criminal offence in Sri Lanka. The second step was to cancel Circular 5/2001 Environmental pollution has away chocolate wrappers on the Sinhalese and Tamils. After J.R. Jayewardene What is your position on the matter? which protected other state forests, which in become another pressing matter road after eating the chocolate. came to power in 1970, with a vast majority Not only homosexuality, but all LGBTQ total accounted for 600,000 ha of land. in the world, with Colombo – a So we as citizens have a huge and five-sixths of Parliament, the popular racist rights have to be recognised because my On the other hand, the issue faced by us in metropolitan city near the sea – responsibility towards protecting bandwagon was the norm of the time. This personal belief and the belief of our party is that the urban community is pollution by garbage. being at risk. What steps would our environment. resulted in the 1978 clashes which started in every person has the right to make a decision Garbage collection, disposal, and recycling are you take to curb pollution and In addition, at the minimum, Jaffna, the 1981 Jaffna Library being burnt on the space they live in and their sexual and issues that have gone unaddressed in Colombo promote green energy? we must carry out thorough down, and the 1983 ethnic issue which dragged other preferences. Those are private matters; we and other areas of the country. In terms of the One of the main problems environmental impact assessments the country into a 30-year war. think there shouldn’t be state involvement in garbage issue, we strongly believe recycling has with regard to environmental before going ahead with Similarly, we are presently experiencing the criminalisation of simple human behaviour, to be looked into as a solution and secondly, our pollution is that Sri Lanka has development projects. As it is, this divide being created between the Muslim which is accepted in most developed and other coastal areas, mangroves, animal life, and flora no city planning/town planning there are many mega development and Sinhala communities, merely because the countries around the world. and fauna have to be protected and legislation strategy. Buildings are just built projects that have ignored parties tend to take this very popular racist stand has to be brought in, ensuring and enhancing the wherever there is space. There environmental impact assessments, just to cover up their weaknesses in governance. Environmental pollution has become another safeguards that are already there, and increasing has never been a real plan to thereby causing a host of This can only be addressed with equal pressing matter in the world, with Colombo the fines and penalties in case of a violation. build the city in a practical or environmental issues. WITH OUR READERS’ HEALTH IN MIND A SPECIAL ANTIMICROBIAL INK HAS BEEN USED IN THE PRINTING OF OUR NEWSPAPER the sunday morning 15 Sunday, July 26, 2020 SPORTS Contrast in actions of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Marcus Rashford where the comparison ends as far as their recent Dinith Part 1 actions go during this pandemic. Pathiraja Tough situations bring out the best in some people while others come up short in their actions. This has been a pattern which has ON COURT played out throughout history in various times. While England was in lockdown, in the recent There are some very good young sportsmen months, just like most other countries in the in the world, and in Callum Hudson-Odoi and world, one of these players covered himself Marcus Rashford you have two of the biggest in glory going so far as to being mentioned as young superstars in the world of football. This a possible candidate for a spot in the Queen’s is especially true when considering the England Honours list, effectively forcing the British Premier league (EPL). Their respective actions Government to change one of their policies, during this pandemic outbreak have lessons while the other almost threw his whole life away. which can be learnt by all young sports persons Callum Hudson-Odoi was reportedly arrested from any sport in their sporting careers going on 18 May 2020, after police responded to forward. Before going any further, it is worth a situation at his home. Hudson-Odoi was mentioning that football is a sport with huge reportedly taken into custody by officers global appeal and with that is the fact that the responding to a report of a woman being amount of money being circulated in the sport is unwell, and was accused of attempted rape by huge. In fact, some people feel it is “obscene”. a model whom he had met online. According to But be that as it may, with all the money that reports, Hudson-Odoi was joined by the woman is being talked about in the world of football, it in contravention of coronavirus lockdown is even more pertinent to note that out of all the guidelines which was prevalent in England at leagues in the world, the EPL is easily considered that time, and this too from a player who had the richest league in the world. Therefore, any contracted the very disease which England, and young superstar in the EPL is likely to be paid in fact almost the whole world, was suffering very well indeed. As such, when discussing from at that time. these two young superstars, it is important to He was released on bail and because of his keep the above perspective in mind. actions had to be quarantined again, delaying his Marcus Rashford and Callum Hudson-Odoi Callum Hudson-Odoi was born and raised return to training with his club, Chelsea. Although in Wandsworth, Greater London. He is the part of the squad which ended up as runners-up Manchester. He joined the academy system at 2019/20 season. he had tested negative after his recovery, during younger brother of non-league striker Bradley in the Union of European Football Associations Manchester United at the age of seven and has Rashford made his Premier League debut mandatory testing by the club, under Premier Hudson-Odoi and the second son of former (UEFA) U-17 Championship and which won the been there ever since. Still just 22 years old, in against Arsenal three days later, scoring twice League protocols at the time for players Hearts of Oak Ghanaian midfielder Bismark Fédération Internationale de Football Association 2016, as an 18 year old, Rashford was a late as much and providing the assist for the other returning to training, he had to be excluded Odoi. Hudson-Odoi was educated at Whitgift (FIFA) U-17 World Cup in the same year. In addition to the Manchester United starting goal in a 3–2 home victory, making him the for the safety of others for a further period of School in Croydon. He joined the Chelsea March 2019, he became the youngest player lineup for their UEFA Europa League round third youngest scorer for United in Premier time. This was all apart from the fact that this Football Club in 2007 as a seven year old and to debut in a competitive match for England, of 32, second leg tie against Midtjylland after League history. Rashford made his England multi-millionaire, multi-talented superstar was has been with the club ever since. During his doing so in the UEFA Euro 2020 qualifiers Anthony Martial was injured in the warm-up; debut in May 2016, and scored in that match also being investigated for attempted rape by time with Chelsea’s academy, Hudson-Odoi was against the Czech Republic. He became one of Rashford marked his first team debut with two becoming the youngest English player to score the police. part of the squad which won the U-18 Premier the highest profile sports persons to test positive goals in the second half of a 5–1 win. Rashford’s in his first senior international match. He played Meanwhile, at the other end of the scale, League in 2017 as well as back-to-back FA for coronavirus and made a full recovery. All in goals made him Manchester United’s youngest at the UEFA Euro 2016 as the tournament’s Marcus Rashford was showing himself to be (Football Association) Youth Cup titles. all, he is a talented young man who is just 20 ever scorer in a European competition, beating youngest player and at the 2018 FIFA World of the highest calibre of persons and was doing Hudson-Odoi also enjoyed considerable years old and has his whole life in front of him. a record previously held by George Best before Cup as well. He is another young player who his best to help ease the situation; the story of success at the youth level for England, being Marcus Rashford was born in Wythenshawe, being broken by Mason Greenwood in the has a bright future ahead of him. And that is which will be continued next week. SLTA starts ‘Stars by Stars’ A remarkable new project by the Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA). It’s going to garner help from former stars produced by the country and now living abroad to raise a fund to support future stars picked by the national body, mainly from outstation. This new project is initiated by SLTA’s Head of Outstation Sony deal in weeks Development Bharathiraja “Still we (Sri Lanka Cricket) are having negotiations with them (Sony Pictures Pillai under the auspices of Networks in India) to come to an agreement with certain things of the their President Iqbal Bin Issack transaction. The (SLC) Procurement Committee will have to negotiate. The and former President Suresh negotiations are going on. They will have to come with a new figure. Anyway, Subramaniam, current Head of it (the deal) will be finalised by next week or so.” This was what a senior SLC the National Olympic Committee. The official told us on Friday (24) with regard to the important three-year tender project is aptly named “Stars by Stars”. of the Sri Lanka cricket team’s next TV broadcaster. Sunday,sports July 26, 2020 Defying Pythagoras and Archimedes with chess geometry The key drawing idea is to reach the b4 square the THE CHESS moment the black king captures the b6 pawn. Let’s do some simple math. Black needs five moves to capture the CORNER white pawn on b6 and white needs six moves to reach b4. Considering that it’s white’s turn, it seems – albeit by Dulan Edirisinghe mistakenly – a draw can be achieved quite comfortably. Unfortunately, the black king also has multiple ways to Defying Pythagoras and Archimedeswith chess reach b6 as well, so he will “shoulder” the white king geometry away whenever possible. Chess has a curious relationship with geometry. The white king has 141 different ways to reach from The distance on a chessboard is measured not by h4 to b4 in six moves. Incredibly, only one path (h4-g3- inches or feet, but by squares. This means that diagonal f2-e1-d2-c3-b4) secures the draw! 1.Kg3 (1.Kg4 Kc2 movement is equivalent to the same number of moves 2.Kf3 Kd3 and the white king loses a tempo) Kc2 2.Kf2 Lasith Malinga may play in horizontally or vertically. What Pythagoras’ theorem Kd3 3.Ke1 Kc4 4.Kd2 Kb5 5.Kc3 Kxb6 6.Kb4= the IPL, yet Dasun Shanaka states about right triangles (a2 + b2= c2 and all that) The following is another highly instructive endgame is denied to play in the CPL is not applicable to the chess battlefield. Visually, this about the king’s multiple routes. can be a tricky thing to process. When considering the Here’s the plan. The a1-e5-e1 triangle, our white king attacks the intuition screams that black knight in four the hypotenuse (a1- moves, forces the e5) is longer than knight to go to h8, and either of the sides (a1- then attack it again e1 and e1-e5). When from g7 and win. The the chess pieces move, black king seems ‘CPL vs. LPL’ all three sides have the White to play and win powerless, looking on same length. Richard Reti (1889-1929) was the first to from afar. use this concept in chess compositions. The battle plan appears quite straightforward, the Since the original Reti study was discussed in a execution is anything but. It turns out there is an invisible clash of the leagues previous column, let’s analyse an even astonishing version barrier in the middle of the board. of the same phenomenon. If you are not familiar with z Shanaka, Dickwella, Hasaranga, and Rajapaksa not allowed to play in CPL the Reti idea, achieving a draw here feels impossible. The white king can’t pass any of the “red” BY REVATHA S. SILVA Proposed fixture cards NOL from SLC, the above official said. The white king weaves, squares (Ke6 or Kd7 As the entire cricket world is trying to begin Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has not CPL in Trinidad – 18 August to 10 September (24 days) swerves, and zigzags allows Nf8+). The LPL in SL – 28 August to 20 September (24 days) playing international cricket in a hectic frenzy his way to chase two natural c5-d4-e4-f5 allowed current national players IPL in UAE – 19 September to 8 November (51 days) as their respective governments and health rabbits, and catches path allows black to Dasun Shanaka, Niroshan Dickwella, authorities are fighting the deadly coronavirus, one. escape with an Wanindu Hasaranga, and Bhanuka the ongoing travel restrictions. Those four Sri none of the above franchise leagues have a 100% 1.Kg6 Kb6 incredible draw. The Rajapaksa to participate in the Lankans were not in the original list. Therefore, chance of being staged unperturbed. Black can also try The invisible barrier and white king needs Caribbean Premier League (CPL), we didn’t issue No Objection Letters (NOLs) for In addition, the sponsors and television 1...h5 2. Kxg7 Kb6 (2... the routes white can seven moves to which is to coincide with the Lankan them,” a senior SLC Ex-Co member clarified. broadcasters are still not having a positive White to play and draw h4 3.Kxf6 h3 4.Ke6 Kb6 take to avoid it capture the black Lasith Malinga, meanwhile, can still play the approach towards those events as the pandemic is Richard Reti Premier League (LPL) in the months 5.Kd7=) 3.Kxf6 h4 knight on h8. The black king (remember him?) can of August and September. Indian Premier League (IPL) as he can even wreaking havoc, creating a lot of uncertainty. On 4.Ke5 h3 5.Kd6= or 1...f5 2. Kxg7 f4 3. Kf6 f3 4. Ke7=. reach f7 in just six moves via b2-b3-c4-d5-e6-f7. play the LPL final and join the IPL in UAE just a positive note though, SLC this month finalised 2.Kxg7 h5 (2... f5 3.Kf6 f4 4.Ke5 f3 5.Kd6=) 3. White can save a tempo and win using the c7-d8- “The CPL is apparently having problems in a couple of days after its scheduled start (see on their national team broadcaster, Sony, and Kxf6 h4 4.Ke5 e8-f7 path. getting down the foreign players because of box). But Malinga has still not requested an its sponsor, Dialog, for the next three years.

4...h3 (4...Kxc6 5.Kf4=) 5.Kd6 h2 6.c7 Kb7 7.Kd7 and draws. A minor miracle! Test status in 1981. He was 49 Archimedes is when they recoded their first Test generally credited Percy Abeysekera is 84 win in 1985 and he was 59 when with the discovery that Millions of words may have been Sri Lanka won the 1996 World the shortest distance After 4.Ke5 written about this man – not for Cup. Abeysekera was 78 when Sri The white king “chasing between two points his batting or bowling prowess Lanka won its first T20 World Cup. two rabbits” is a straight line. The however. He is the No. 1 cheerleader Abeysekera saw Sri Lanka movement of a king on a chessboard, however, is a in the game of cricket. His name is skippers from Mahadevan totally different matter. Consider the following position. Walimuni Denham Percy Gimson Sathasivam to Dimuth Karunaratne. Mendis Abeysekera, better known “My wholehearted gratitude goes First one must as Percy Abeysekera. to my parents, family members, understand why white He was born in Boossa, Down teachers, first employer for 20 must play for a draw. If South, on 30 July 1936 and will years – Sir Cyril de Zoysa of AMW the white king tries to celebrate his 84th birthday on (Associated Motoways), my present win by reaching c7 in Thursday. employers from 1980 up to now – five turns, his Percy saw Sir Don Bradman in Messrs Gotabaya Madanayake and counterpart wins the action in Colombo when he was 11. Suren Madanayake of ACL, and the game by reaching the He was around 30 years old when Percy with his children, grandchildren, and his late sister Padmini entire cricket family of the world,” White to play and draw pivotal a6 square. Sri Lanka became an Associate Council (ICC) in 1965. He was first-ever World Cup in 1975 and Percy told The Sunday Morning Member of the International Cricket 38 when Sri Lanka played in its he was 45 when Sri Lanka gained Sports on Wednesday (22).

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