Dilrook Kannangara

When Imran Khan became PM of Pakistan the whole world knew Pakistan will end its rot and turn the tide. However, it was not seen in good light by enemies of Pakistan both internal and external. Imran worked hard to contain corruption. But corrupt politicians, their lackeys, their supporters, extremists and the underworld joined forces to topple him and his regime and condemned him to prison. Since then, Pakistan has again fallen back to corruption, worsening poverty, extremism, war and total hopelessness. It should not surprise anyone if parts of Pakistan successfully agitate for independence tearing it apart. Will this be the fate of Sri Lanka too?

Since 1948 Sri Lankans have not experienced the meaning of equal rights when it comes to the law. They were forced to believe that politicians are a different breed of creatures entitled to more rights than the common man. Using this falsehood politicians robbed the nation to bankruptcy and war. However, since of late Sri Lanka seems to be at least trying to go the right way. It is an abnormal and unusual thing for islanders though it is very common in successful countries and countries that are trying hard to become successful. Recently the Thai PM was removed from post over the violation of the law. A number of Japanese and South Korean politicians including former presidents and PMs were imprisoned for corruption. It is just normal in successful countries. But in Sri Lanka which is destined to doom and failure, these normal acts are seen as unusual acts.

Like in Pakistan, all former political rivals have joined forces in Sri Lanka, not for any benefit for the nation, but for their own survival. Though they lack public support, they can still cause disruption, agitation, violence and racism. Unless the rulers act with determination, it will be the righteous who will end up in prison, not the crooks.