The inaugural session of the 10th Parliament marked a milestone in Sri Lanka’s history, deserving attention and reflection. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake delivered a precise and compelling speech that addressed a multitude of pressing issues facing our nation for decades, outlining his Government’s plan to restore sanity and order while fulfilling the mandate of the National People’s Power (NPP). He was firm when he said racism will not be tolerated at any cost and called for a strong multi-party system to foster national unity.
Ironically he said in no uncertain terms the dignity of Parliament which had eroded must be restored. President Dissanayake did not mince his words when he said a satisfied public service and establishing a truly democratic state was paramount. The supremacy of law was an ‘A’ lister in his policy statement which included justice for victims and accountability for the perpetrators of the heinous crime.
The economy was the draw out and he outlined a vision to stabilise the economy. Delving deep into the subject he said staying true to the International Monetary Fund Agreement was his objective.
The President stressed the need for rapid advancement in tourism and information technology, a revolutionary overhaul of the agricultural sector and initiatives to maximise the value of mineral resources through private sector collaboration.
The environment which has taken a beating where environmental sustainability is the key to overcome it or at least minimise its ill effects. In this respect, the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ project is a much-needed initiative aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability while also fostering ethical and responsible citizenship in both social and private actions. Tugging at many a heart string, President Dissanayake spoke of eradicating poverty with economic support programs ensuring that every citizen receives the care and attention they deserve.
In the history of Sri Lanka, there has never been a more apt time than today, as everything seems to fall into place for the people of all nationalities. The two-thirds majority says it all. The political leadership has got a clear mandate and the Government is willing to implement essential reform across the board.
The uniqueness of the 10th Parliament lies in the many new faces, many of whom are millennials who will work for the greater good of the public.
This Government comes with a clear mandate focused on anti-corruption and good governance, setting an example from the highest levels of power from day one. Many were the thoughts experienced that these novice MPs of the 10th Parliament were ‘L” board MPs but will prove otherwise with the example led from the top.
Rooted in Marxism, the 10th Parliament has a solid plan to mentor the young parliamentarians through training and induction programs which will get under way in the coming months.
Speaking to the Sunday Observer at the traditional tea party held for the new House, Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa, who is Cabinet spokesman in addition to his other portfolios, said, “The new faces in Parliament reflect the people’s requirements. They are politically adept and are sure to pick up the nuances of parliamentary tradition and governance in a jiffy.
Every MP will be appointed to ministries and will be responsible for various tasks, providing valuable opportunities for them to learn about the governance and lawmaking process,” people’s requirements. While they may be new to this institution, they are not new to politics. We are committed to enhancing their knowledge and understanding of governance and parliamentary procedures in lawmaking, and we have taken the necessary measures to ensure that. Every MP will be appointed to ministries and will be responsible for various tasks, providing valuable opportunities for them to learn about governance and the lawmaking process.
He said MPs are here to serve the people, not the media or not to entertain the public. He was adamant when he said that MPs should not enter the media fray unless they have something very clear to say about matters pertaining to the public. Being an MP is not being a media star to gain attention, a trend we have unfortunately witnessed in recent years, he said.
However, what was laughable was Ramanathan Archchuna’s attention-seeking antic. On the first day itself he decides to sit on the in the Opposition Leader’s seat, he disregarded protocol and the private media went to town with the story. His actions did not contribute to any meaningful change within parliament or the broader political landscape, as the opposition leader’s seat will continue to be reserved according to protocol from next seating onwards.
While such ambitious behaviour cannot be entirely eliminated in a democracy, the Media and the citizens must understand the role of parliamentarians. This kind of spectacle must not be entertained. It is up to the media to uphold responsible reporting for the betterment of society.
As the President concluded quoting Martin Luther King Jr., “Darkness cannot drive out darkness. Only light can do that. Hate cannot eradicate hate. Only love can do that,” the new Sri Lanka is paving its way in the battle between darkness and light. It is our collective responsibility to steer the country towards the light, battle the challenges posed by darkness.
The next parliamentary session is scheduled for December 3, 2024.
