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Sri Lankans have forfeited their rights



Yes, we have lost our rights, turn left or right look north or south, we have lost our rights.

First and foremost what matters is our status within the world community. We have been reduced to a Pariah State. All our neighbouring states did not enjoy the status that Ceylon enjoyed at the time of Independence. We were the cynosure of Asia. Let us begin from the top. Our diplomatic status within the various bodies of the UN is in shambles most countries that were supportive of us are now reluctant to do so. We are pretending that we have friends in the Indian and Pakistani political corridors though we are under a cloud of uncertainty.

Yes, all this is because of our lethargic frivolous attitudes as a nation. We have surrendered our rights to opportunistic sycophants who are not only fleecing us economically but also appointing persons of no caliber, aptitude or integrity to important posts. Most of these people have opted to go with the political wind no matter which way it blows, rather than stick to norms of international standing. Their comments and views purely pander to their political masters forgetting that they are representatives of the country. It appears that their representation of the country is limited to their securing a future for themselves, not caring about the status of the country they are representing.

Sri Lanka has lost its credibility at all international forums. Even the eminent persons who were invited to give their opinion have left the country in disgust. We as a nation are looking for the flimsiest excuses to cross the views of internationally accepted and accredited individuals and institutions. When I say we, its really not we, but the opportunists we have appointed disregarding even the most elementary considerations in the levels education and credibility required and expected of people holding such office.

For some reason the elements that run this country believe that whoever who comes to this country and which ever institution that lays down rules, constitute persona non grata.

Our politicians and administrators want us to believe that the whole world has an antipathy towards this nation.

Countrymen! Arise from your slumber before we reach the road of no return. Let us ask the politicians to give us a distinguished brand of ambassadors and heads of institutions, ones who do not cow down to politicians but accept responsibility and be ready to answer to this nation.

We are starved of law and order, starved of economic and social progress, starved of a better life for our progeny, all because we have alienated our rights to a group of masterminds who are sealing a fate yet unknown to us.

Walter Fernando Ratmalana

'Under international humanitarian law applicable in armed-conflict situations, people not involved in fighting, including the wounded and sick, whether they be civilians or fighters, must be given any medical care they may require as quickly as possible,' the ICRC highlighted in its statement.

The ICRC staff is present six days a week at the Omanthai entry/exit point in Vavuniya to facilitate smooth passage of vehicles and civilians between areas controlled by the government and the LTTE

Article: Lanka's war-ravaged Wanni hospitals face medical shortage
Thursday, 17 April 2008 - 8:09 PM SL Time

Walter Fernando Ratmalana