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How is it possible?

The view expressed by Ranil Wickremasinghe that it is not possible to find a solution to the ethnic problem under the present constitution is nothing new. Question is, will anyone among the Sinhala leadership, including Wickremasinghe, take constructive actions to find a solution?

In his election manifesto, Wickremasinghe has said that he will find a solution under the Oslo declaration and the Tokyo declaration. (It is a different matter whether the Tamil people will accept such a solution.) However, Wickremasinghe did not state in his manifesto his ideas about changing the constitution.

His manifesto does not give the same degree of importance to solving the ethnic problem that it has given to the concept of United Sri Lanka. His manifesto also appears to say that there is agreement between UNP and SLFP on issue of resolving the ethnic problem. He has tried to create the view that due to this agreement he will be able to get the endorsement of the SLFP when he conducts talks with the LTTE.

What does all this mean? What is the policy of the SLFP? Is SLFP represented by Kumaratunge or Rajapakse? Kumaratunge says that a solution for the ethnic problem can be found based on a federal system. While Rajapakse signs agreements with parties that deny the existence of Tamil homeland, thus contradicting Kumaratunge’s policy.

Above all this, will these two parties that has consistently held contradictory positions about the ethnic issue for fifty years, now give up their scramble for power and come to the table together to hold peace talks with the LTTE? Suppose the SLFP wins the Presidential elections will UNP come to a similar understanding with the SLFP?

Changing the constitution of Sri Lanka is not easy. From the electoral system to the exercise of power none of its aspects are amenable to change.

The reality is that it is impossible to change the constitution of Sri Lanka through constitutional means. This is no accident. Past President Jayawardhana drew up the constitution with this motive.

The constitution can be changed only when a Sinhala leadership is formed with revolutionary thinking and total dedication. Alternatively the present leadership must give up their power competitions and decide to act for the good of the country.

Talking of constitution and of solution to the ethnic problem without first ensuring that fundamental change is meaningless. It is also deceptive.

03 October 2005

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