If we continue with traditional politics in the next presidential elections, it will be impossible to avoid a third civil war in the country – Vajira Abeywardana – The Island

MP Vajira Abeywardana said sticking to traditional political ideologies in the upcoming presidential elections could risk sparking another civil war in the country.

He made this statement during the press conference held today (29) at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC), with the theme ‘Collective path to a stable country’.

Member of Parliament Abeywardana further noted:

The upcoming presidential election on September 21 will be crucial for the selection of the 9th executive president of the country. At present, traditional political parties are struggling to maintain their influence. Historically, Sri Lanka has experienced several insurgencies and civil wars, including an uprising against the previous regime.

Given this context, the question arises: will voters use their ballots to risk a situation resembling a third civil war, or will they choose to avoid such a scenario? The decision on September 21 will be crucial in shaping the future of civil society in Sri Lanka.

If political parties continue to adhere to traditional ideologies, caste-based politics or religious divisions, they will be held responsible for a possible third civil war. It is crucial that these parties remember this.

During the country’s economic crisis, the opposition failed to take responsibility for reconstruction. Instead, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, then the only member of the United National Party (UNP) in parliament, took on the task of securing the country’s future. On 22 July 2022, he assumed the role of the 8th Executive President and has been committed to rebuilding the nation.

Many reforms were implemented to rebuild the country, with the Economic Transformation Act being a major initiative. This law is crucial and no political party can operate outside its framework. By 2027, five years after the country declared bankruptcy, the Economic Transformation Act stipulates that the country’s economic growth rate must be 5%. This law makes previous governments accountable and requires every political party to present its policies in accordance with it.

Furthermore, the Economic Transformation Act aims to promote a dynamic economy that integrates domestic and international trade and industry and enables Sri Lanka to compete with Asia and the global market.

Some political parties are still misleading the public with traditional tactics. For example, the Budget Office Act, the Economic Transformation Act and the Public Debt Management Act are being violated because these policies are presented to the public in violation of the principles of these important laws. In my opinion, this will prevent Sri Lanka from rebuilding effectively. For example, the Economic Transformation Act, the Budget Office Act and the Public Debt Management Act should be kept free from political influence.

It is disappointing that despite the unanimous support of all 225 MPs for the new Economic Transformation Act in Parliament, they are publicly expressing contradictory views. I appeal to all parties to acknowledge the situation in the country and avoid such contradictions. They should put aside their religious, caste and political differences and work together on a national plan for the development of the country.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe calls on all parties to support a long-term national development programme and set aside their own policies to avoid undermining the country’s progress efforts.

We must always be honest with the public. Some still make false claims about corruption and accuse the current government of inaction. However, there are courts and police forces dedicated to checking corruption, and these institutions have been strengthened. In addition, President Wickremesinghe has implemented the strictest anti-corruption law in Asia.

Today, some individuals accuse others of selling the country. For example, when the Hilton Hotel was built, some claimed it was a sale, but now that the hotel is profitable, the same critics claim it as their success. Such individuals lack understanding and vision regarding economic development.

We don’t always need basic factories; countries like Korea have evolved from garment factories to ship and airplane production. We need to adapt to this new economic reality.

To build this country, we must work together on a national plan that spans 6 to 15 years. That is why President Ranil Wickremesinghe is running as an independent candidate to achieve this goal. It is crucial that we stop misleading the public for political gain. There is no alternative path to rebuild our nation.

It is crucial for all Sri Lankans to unite and prioritize the well-being of the country. In a democracy, political parties have the right to express their views. However, we must avoid causing further harm to the country. Voters must approach the upcoming presidential election with a focus on the future of the country, not out of hatred or revenge. These elections must not be used as a tool to undermine the country.