Editorial Mr Wasantha Mudalige, who is said to be the convener of a certain student union, is currently in custody and national and international parties are giving priority to distorting the truth
More
by Our Political Affairs Editor
Ah, Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean. Once a land of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and humble simplicity. Fast forward to 2048, and behold, a transformed Sri Lanka, a “developed” country that has lost touch with its own essence. Strap in, dear readers, as we take you on a satirical tour of the so-called progress that has swept across our island nation.
Firstly, let us marvel at the architectural wonders that now dot the skyline of Colombo. Gone are the quaint colonial buildings that exuded charm and history. They have been replaced by gargantuan glass towers that scrape the heavens, built by faceless corporations in their quest for dominance. Who needs character when you can have uniformity and gleaming windows that reflect a distorted version of our lost heritage?
But fear not, dear readers, for the chaos of traffic has been eliminated. How, you ask? By paving over the very essence of Sri Lanka, its lush greenery. Our once-famous tea estates and paddy fields have been replaced by a vast network of soulless highways and concrete jungles. Surely, the eradication of nature is a small price to pay for the convenience of reaching your destination a few minutes earlier.
In this utopia of development, our wildlife has also found a new home. Yes, you guessed it—zoos. Why roam free in the jungles when you can be confined to small, artificial enclosures for the entertainment of the masses? The concept of preserving our biodiversity in its natural habitat is so last century. After all, who needs leopards prowling in the wilderness when you can admire them from the comfort of your air-conditioned enclosure?
Education, too, has experienced a paradigm shift. Forget about instilling critical thinking, creativity, and a love for learning. The future belongs to rote memorization and standardized testing. Our education system now churns out mindless robots who excel at regurgitating information but lack the ability to think for themselves. Who needs innovative thinkers and entrepreneurs when you can have a society filled with obedient cogs in the machinery of progress?
Oh, and let’s not forget the culinary revolution that has taken place. Our traditional rice and curry, bursting with flavours and history, have been overshadowed by fast-food chains and international franchises. Why savour the rich tapestry of our culinary heritage when you can wolf down a bland burger that tastes the same whether you’re in Colombo or New York? Sri Lanka, the land of spices, reduced to just another link in the global fast-food chain.
In the race towards progress, we have also left behind the art of simplicity and genuine human connections. Face-to-face interactions have been replaced by virtual reality headsets and social media platforms. Our conversations are now reduced to emojis, memes, and sound bites. Who needs heartfelt conversations and genuine connections when you can have an online persona with thousands of followers and zero real friends?
Yes, dear readers, Sri Lanka in 2048 is a land that has forgotten its roots, its soul, and its very essence. Progress has come at a great cost, and we must ask ourselves: Is this the future we truly desired? Perhaps it’s time to pause, reflect, and remember that true development lies not in the destruction of our heritage, but in preserving what makes us unique, authentic, and truly Sri Lankan.
But in every corner of the island, from the bustling airport to the humble public toilet, one image remains ubiquitous, haunting our every step. It is the portrait of none other than Ranil Wickremesinghe, captured when he was well into his late 80s. His wise, weathered face gazes upon us, accompanied by a caption that reads, “The one and only man who tirelessly spoke of 2048 for over two decades, teaching us the art of orchestrating successful schemes for power.”
Yes, dear readers, Ranil Wickremesinghe, the maestro of political manoeuvring, has become the revered icon of Sri Lanka’s transformed nation. His visionary foresight, unyielding ambition, and unparalleled knack for survival have placed him on a pedestal above all others. Forget about the great thinkers, innovators, and leaders who shaped the world in meaningful ways. In Sri Lanka 2048, it is all about the art of talking, scheming, and self-promotion.
As you traverse the streets, don’t be surprised to find an endless array of billboards featuring Ranil’s portrait, reminding us of his indomitable spirit and his masterful ability to spin tales of prosperity. The country may be grappling with real issues like inequality, poverty, and environmental degradation, but fear not, for Ranil’s captivating smile is there to distract us from the harsh realities.
The legacy of Ranil Wickeremsinghe, the man who could talk a marathon but rarely delivered on his promises, has become the cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s “success” narrative. His teachings on the art of staging grand schemes for power have been embraced by politicians across the spectrum. From the elaborate infrastructure projects that rarely see completion to the empty rhetoric that fills the airwaves, it’s all part of the grand performance taught by the maestro himself.
It’s a peculiar sight, indeed, to witness the transformation of a country where talking about progress has taken precedence over actual progress. As we stand in front of public toilets, the walls adorned with Ranil’s portrait, we can’t help but ponder the irony. Here we are, in a land where even the most basic amenities are in disarray, yet we are reminded of a man who mastered the art of deception and illusion, where words and image trumped substance and action.
But fear not, dear readers, for Sri Lanka in 2048 is a true testament to the power of perception and the endurance of empty promises. As we gaze upon Ranil’s portrait, we are reminded that talking about progress can be just as powerful as achieving it. So let us bask in the glory of his legacy, for in this surreal landscape of staged success, perception is reality, and words are worth far more than their weight in gold.
You might be interested in
Editorial
In the pursuit of progress and development, numerous Asian countries have long grappled with a persistent and destructive phenomenon: the grip of family politics. This deeply ingrained, yet nihilistic practice has undermined the very essence of democracy and entrenched nepotism as the prevailing norm within governing systems. From the Gandhi dynasty in India to the Bhutto family in Pakistan, and from the Hasina clan in Bangladesh to the Senanayake, Jayewardena, Gunawardhana, Bandaranaike, and Rajapaksa dynasties in Sri Lanka, it becomes evident that the political landscapes of these nations have been hijacked by a sense of entitlement and an insidious belief in the divine right to rule. Many of these countries continue to suffer the dire consequences of family politics, emphasizing the urgent need to eradicate this issue in order to unlock the true potential of the Asian century. While India has taken steps towards countering this trend with the election of leader Modi, the roots of nepotism still persist.
One of the most alarming aspects of family politics is the perpetuation of a sense of entitlement among these ruling dynasties. They often view themselves as inherently destined to govern, treating the land and its people as their personal fiefdom. This misguided belief undermines the principles of meritocracy and inclusivity that are vital for a thriving democracy. By monopolizing power and stifling opportunities for fresh talent and diverse perspectives, these family-centric regimes create an environment where political ambition is limited to a privileged few, leaving the majority of citizens marginalized and disenfranchised.
The prevalence of family politics also nurtures a toxic ecosystem of sycophants and opportunists, eager to exploit their proximity to power for personal gain. These individuals infiltrate the very fabric of the state, adeptly maneuvering through situations using cunning tactics and adaptability. For instance, when foreign investors visit these countries in search of opportunities, they often encounter a disheartening experience. They encounter politicians who exhibit rudeness and indifference, creating an inhospitable environment for investment. The investor is then introduced to intermediaries—solicitors or consultants—who claim to facilitate the deal without seeking payment. However, the truth reveals that these intermediaries are merely conduits for bribery, serving as middlemen who negotiate kickbacks for politicians in exchange for project approvals. This systemic corruption discourages genuine investors, eroding trust and impeding economic progress.
In this environment of nepotism and corruption, entertaining visions of the Asian century becomes futile. Such aspirations are nothing more than delusions that distract us from the pressing need to dismantle this network of germs and parasites. In order for the Asian century to become a reality, it is imperative to break free from the shackles of family politics and establish robust institutions capable of delivering justice and accountability. Meritocracy, transparency, and equal opportunities must replace the culture of entitlement and cronyism.
The eradication of family politics demands a concerted effort from both domestic and international stakeholders. South Asian societies must foster a culture of political engagement and civic education that encourages merit-based competition and a commitment to public service. Strengthening legal frameworks, promoting independent judiciary systems, and ensuring the autonomy of key institutions will help shield against the influence of vested interests. Furthermore, international support and cooperation are crucial in the fight against family politics. Diplomatic pressure, collaboration on anti-corruption initiatives, and the promotion of good governance practices can reinforce efforts to break free from the clutches of nepotism and pave the way for genuine democratic progress.
The dream of the Asian century cannot be realized as long as family politics continue to thrive. The entrenchment of ruling dynasties and the accompanying ecosystem of opportunistic parasites hinder progress, undermine democracy, and perpetuate inequality. It is incumbent upon Asian nations to confront this challenge head-on, dismantling the foundations of family politics and cultivating a political landscape that values meritocracy, inclusivity, and accountability. Only then can the region truly embark on a path toward realizing its immense potential and becoming a beacon of progress in the 21st century.
You might be interested in
Editorial
Greetings, fellow citizens of the Island of Fools, where the art of comedy has taken an unprecedented turn towards absurdity. In this bizarre land, laughter has become a weapon of mass distraction, wielded by all, from stand-up comedians to religious leaders and politicians. Brace yourselves for a satirical journey into the heart of a nation where common sense has long been abandoned, and idiocy reigns supreme.
In this comedy-infused society, professional stand-up comedians have traded their clever wit and insightful commentary for cheap laughs. Gone are the days when comedy challenged societal norms and sparked meaningful conversations. Instead, we are left with an abundance of slapstick humour and recycled jokes that only serve to numb our already dulled senses. In a tragic turn of events, Natasha, a young comedian known for her sharp wit and biting humour, now finds herself trapped in prison, a casualty of immaturity and a society that persistently fails to comprehend the nuanced context and intentions underlying her audacious stand-up routine.
But the madness doesn’t end there. Even religious leaders have succumbed to the allure of the punchline, leaving behind their sacred duty to guide their flock. Sermons have transformed into comedy routines, complete with exaggerated gestures and punchy one-liners. Congregations gather not to seek spiritual enlightenment but to see who can make them laugh the hardest. The moral compass of the Island of Fools has been utterly lost amidst the sea of laughter.
And let’s not forget about the politicians, those esteemed guardians of the public trust. Instead of upholding their duties with integrity, they have embraced their inner clowns. Public addresses are now filled with outlandish statements, absurd promises, and grandiose tales. These politicians see their role not as public servants but as entertainers in a never-ending circus. State resources are plundered under the guise of “fun” and “entertainment,” leaving the island’s economy in shambles.
In this topsy-turvy land, the media has become the main source of governance. But beware, dear citizens, for the media’s primary objective is no longer to inform or hold the powerful accountable. Instead, it has transformed into a nonsensical carnival, where sensationalism and triviality reign supreme. Headlines are crafted to elicit laughter, not to shed light on important issues. The truth is bent and twisted to fit the narrative of the day’s punchline.
Living in such an island is a perilous endeavor. Critical thinking has been replaced by mindless amusement, and the pursuit of truth has given way to a relentless quest for the next laugh. The consequences of this Laughter-ocracy are dire. The island’s citizens are left uninformed, manipulated by the whims of those who control the media. Governance becomes a farce, as those in power exploit the distracted masses, continuing to plunder the state resources without consequence.
Dear readers, it is time to awaken from this nightmarish comedy circus. We must demand a return to sanity, where comedy is a tool for introspection and critical commentary, not an excuse for ignorance and irresponsibility. Let us reclaim our intellectual curiosity and hold our comedians, religious leaders, and politicians to a higher standard. Only then can we break free from the chains of laughter and forge a future that is built on reason, truth, and genuine progress.
Remember, laughter is a powerful force, but it must be wielded responsibly. Let us restore the balance between humour and wisdom, and rid ourselves of the misguided notion that everything is a joke. The Island of Fools can become a land of enlightenment once more, if only we dare to look beyond the punchline.
And so, dear readers, as we contemplate the tragic state of the Island of Fools, it is important to remember its rich and varied history. From the ancient times of Sielen to the enchanting Taprobane, from the magical Serendib to the vibrant Ceylon, and finally, to the modern-day Sri Lanka, this land has seen it all.
Yet, if we continue down this path of comedic folly, it may not be long before this island adds another name to its illustrious lineage. A name that reflects the absurdity and the farcical nature of its governance—a name like Comedy Island. But let us not succumb to this bleak prophecy. Instead, let us rise above the laughter-driven chaos and reclaim the dignity and wisdom that once defined this remarkable place.
For the Island of Fools has the potential to be so much more than a punchline. It can be a land of intellectual prowess, social progress, and responsible governance. As we navigate the uncertain future, let us remember the lessons of the past and work towards a brighter tomorrow—a tomorrow where the Island of Fools finds its true calling, not as a comedy haven, but as a beacon of reason, resilience, and enlightenment.
May we, the inhabitants of this cherished land, rise above the absurdity and restore the true essence of our beloved island, for the sake of our own sanity and the legacy of our ancestors.
In hope and humour!
You might be interested in
Editorial
The arrest of a lady comedian, accused of defaming Buddhism, has ignited a fervent and contentious debate within our society. This incident exposes the immaturity within our community and emphasizes the necessity of constructive dialogue and self-reflection. Let us delves into the matter briefly, examining the significance of comedy as an art form and stressing the importance of addressing structural issues with sensitivity and understanding.
The arrest of the comedian and the subsequent actions by local media and social media influencers reveal a troubling trend. Instead of engaging in thoughtful discussions, they resorted to personal attacks and publicly scrutinized her family background. These actions exemplify the immaturity prevailing in our society, where individuals seek to humiliate and degrade others for personal gain or ulterior motives.
Comedy serves as a potent tool to criticize and provoke thought, including within religious institutions. Constructive comedy challenges the status quo, encouraging critical thinking and initiating conversations that lead to positive change. We must view the comedian’s attempt to shed light on structural issues within Buddhism through this lens.
While the comedian’s intentions may have aimed to address pressing social issues, it is crucial to approach sensitive topics with care and respect. By using vulgar language and drawing connections between the childhood of Gautama Buddha and present-day parental behaviours, the comedian failed to strike the delicate balance between provocation and constructive criticism. However, it is equally important to note that those offended personalized her message, weaponizing it to attack and frame her. This reaction further exemplifies the immaturity prevalent in our society.
Sri Lanka is not alone in comedy that challenges popular religious institutions. Throughout history, outspoken comedians have often become adversaries of such establishments due to their willingness to address societal issues through their craft. Comedy extends beyond mere entertainment; it serves as a vehicle for social commentary, offering a platform to question and challenge existing norms.
The outcome of the comedian’s legal case remains uncertain, but this experience should serve as a profound lesson for personal and professional growth. It is crucial for her to persevere in her chosen path, maintaining clarity of heart and mind, unaffected by the manipulation of others with hidden agendas. These experiences, though challenging, provide invaluable insights and equip her to approach her craft with greater wisdom and sensitivity.
The reactions to the recent arrest of a lady comedian on charges of defaming Buddhism serve as a glaring reminder of the immaturity that persists within our society. It is disheartening to witness not only the general public but also responsible parties responding with hatred and exclusivism. It is worth remembering that when faced with defamatory actions, Buddha himself never saw them as a threat to his noble teachings but as an opportunity to respond with kindness and compassion—attributes that lie at the heart of Buddhism.
Contrarily, this incident highlights the urgent need for constructive dialogue and self-reflection, particularly when addressing sensitive subjects like religion. While the comedian’s approach may have lacked sensitivity, it is crucial for society to transcend personal attacks and instead engage in thoughtful discussions that facilitate positive transformation. It is through these mature and constructive conversations that we can cultivate a society that not only upholds the value of freedom of expression but also promotes understanding and empathy, the very essence of Buddhism.
Who truly poses a threat to the sanctity of Buddhism? We trust you already hold the answer deep within!
You might be interested in
Editorial
Today, we bid farewell to a remarkable individual whose contributions to the global community have left an indelible mark. Jayantha Dhanapala, a distinguished diplomat, scholar, and advocate for peace, passed away, leaving behind a legacy that transcends borders and continues to inspire us all.
Dhanapala was a true embodiment of diplomacy, known for his unwavering commitment to dialogue, negotiation, and conflict resolution. Throughout his extensive career, he skillfully navigated complex international landscapes, fostering understanding and cooperation among nations. His exceptional talents as a mediator and peacemaker earned him the admiration and respect of colleagues and adversaries alike.
One of Dhanapala’s most notable achievements was his pivotal role as the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Disarmament Affairs. In this capacity, he tirelessly promoted arms control, nonproliferation, and disarmament initiatives, advocating for a world free from the shadow of nuclear weapons. His resolute dedication to these critical issues has left a lasting impact on global security efforts.
Beyond his diplomatic endeavours, Dhanapala made significant contributions to academia and intellectual discourse. As an esteemed scholar, he delved deep into the complexities of international relations, enriching our understanding of the intricate dynamics that shape our world. His thought-provoking writings and lectures have stimulated countless minds, encouraging dialogue and fostering a more enlightened approach to global challenges.
However, it is perhaps Dhanapala’s compassionate nature and unwavering belief in humanity’s potential for good that truly set him apart. He possessed an innate ability to bridge divides and foster understanding, displaying empathy and respect for all parties involved. His tireless pursuit of peace and justice served as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of compassion and diplomacy in shaping a better world.
As we mourn the loss of this distinguished figure, we must also celebrate his life and the values he championed. Dhanapala’s unwavering commitment to peace, his profound intellect, and his unwavering belief in the inherent goodness of humanity will continue to guide us as we navigate the complexities of our interconnected world.
In honouring Jayantha Dhanapala’s memory, let us redouble our efforts to promote peace, understanding, and cooperation among nations. Let us draw inspiration from his example and work together to build a world where dialogue prevails over conflict and where compassion triumphs over hostility.
Today, we come together to honour the memory of an extraordinary individual who embodied the ideals of diplomacy, scholarship, and peace advocacy. As we bid farewell to Jayantha Dhanapala, let us reflect on the profound impact he made during his time with us. Although he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit persists within the hearts and minds of the countless individuals whose lives he touched. Through his remarkable achievements, Jayantha Dhanapala has forged a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and guide us in our collective pursuit of a harmonious world.
You might be interested in
Editorial
In the dynamic realm of artificial intelligence (AI), Sam Altman’s voice resonates with exceptional clarity. As the CEO of OpenAI and a distinguished entrepreneur in the field, Altman offers a distinctive perspective on both the promises and perils of AI technology. During a recent congressional hearing, Altman candidly expressed his deep concerns about the future implications of AI. However, what sets him apart from profit-driven entrepreneurs is his emphasis on collective action and the pursuit of noble goals over mere financial gains.
Altman’s testimony revealed his genuine apprehension regarding the unprecedented challenges that AI may present to humanity. Unlike those who downplay the potential risks, he wholeheartedly acknowledges the profound impact that AI can have on various aspects of our lives, ranging from job displacement to privacy concerns. Altman’s forthrightness is refreshing, particularly considering the immense power wielded by AI and its potential to shape the course of human existence.
Despite these concerns, Altman’s message is one of unwavering optimism. He recognizes that while AI poses risks, it also holds tremendous potential for positive transformation. By underscoring the need for collective action, Altman advocates for a collaborative approach to ensure the responsible and ethical development of AI. Instead of succumbing to fear and uncertainty, he urges society to confront these challenges head-on, working together to steer AI towards a future that benefits all of humanity.
Altman’s approach stands in stark contrast to the profit-oriented mindset prevalent among many entrepreneurs in the AI space. His unwavering commitment to pursuing societal benefits and long-term impacts distinguishes him as a visionary leader. Altman acknowledges that AI’s influence extends far beyond mere economic gains, emphasizing the paramount importance of addressing broader ethical considerations and ensuring that this technology aligns with our fundamental human values.
Recognizing the complexity and scale of the challenges posed by AI, Altman underscores the necessity of collective action. He calls for collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers to establish robust guidelines, regulations, and ethical frameworks that guide the development of AI. Altman’s belief in collective responsibility reflects his understanding that the stakes are simply too high for any single entity to tackle AI’s challenges in isolation.
Sam Altman’s presence in the AI landscape breathes new life into the discourse, as he fearlessly illuminates the unprecedented challenges that AI presents, while steadfastly upholding a commitment to collective action and noble goals. His candid and optimistic approach inspires a profound sense of responsibility in others, compelling us to acknowledge the risks while harnessing the vast potential of AI for the betterment of society. Altman’s visionary outlook serves as a resounding call to action, reminding us that through collaboration, we can shape the future of AI to ensure it remains a force that benefits and empowers all of humanity.
You might be interested in
Editorial
In the shadows of Sri Lanka’s history, a tale of manipulation, betrayal, and societal decay unfolds. From the depths of a brutal civil war to the aftermath of its conclusion, the wounds inflicted upon the nation run deep. Today, as we reflect upon the past, we dare to uncover the hidden truths that lie buried beneath a facade of false triumph. Brace yourself for a journey into the heart of a society plagued by lies, where the pursuit of power and the erosion of moral values have left an indelible mark on the destiny of a nation.
Man, burdened by deep-rooted hatred and victimized by systematic discrimination, not only faced by Tamils but also by many underprivileged communities in Sri Lanka, turned into a symbol of violence and terror in South Asia. Velupillai Prabhakaran, the leader of the Tamil Tigers (LTTE), was killed on May 18, fourteen years ago. Elimination of his terror factory was celebrated by the country, with hopes that it would mark the beginning of a new era where social justice and human rights would prevail.
Prabhakaran was a nihilistic pawn, initially used by so-called high caste Tamil politicians who continued to dominate Tamil politics, and later exploited by those who sought fortune in Western countries. Unfortunately, their fortune was built upon the blood of Sri Lankans. Their ulterior motive was to create social turmoil in Sri Lanka, ensuring their own well-being. This manipulation of conflicts is not unique to Sri Lanka but has been witnessed in many countries. This is the result when wisdom is replaced by blindfolded terror.
Amidst this, there is an untold story that needs to be shared. For years, we have kept it hidden, but today we believe it is time to reveal the truth. During the final stages of the civil war, the parents of LTTE leaders were taken into custody by the security forces, and highly trained intelligence officers took care of them.
Meanwhile, Prabhakaran’s sister, who was living in a Western country, requested to bring her parents along through one of the neighbouring countries. However, the Western country, known for their constant talk about human rights and their blame on Sri Lanka for not taking care of those who surrendered, as well as the neighbouring country vehemently denied the request. Unfortunately, Prabhakaran’s father passed away due to severe illness, while his mother remained under their care for some time. At one point, the security forces offered Prabhakaran’s mother the option to return to her hometown and resume her life, as the situation had normalized. However, her response was shocking. She adamantly said, ‘No, don’t send me there; I am far better off and more secure here, with you my sons (military intelligence officers).’
Simultaneously, in Sri Lanka, many celebrated the defeat of the Tamil Tigers. However, only a few individuals possessed the moral and ethical principles to express gratitude to those who truly fought on the ground. The term ‘Ranaviruwa’ (War Hero) which was shamelessly exploited for political gain, exposed the putrid behaviour of those who wielded power and authority.
We are a poor nation, and our poverty extends beyond the economic sphere. We are impoverished in terms of moral and ethical practices. We lack a sense of social responsibility and collective action. Instead, we excel at pointing fingers and justifying ourselves. Betrayal and backstabbing are our riches. This epitomizes the pitiful state to which our nation has descended, the worst kind of terror one could imagine. As Kurt Vonnegut, a man who lived ahead of his time, said, ‘True terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country.’
Fourteen long years have passed, and Sri Lanka faces social, economic, and political crises greater than ever before. Our politicians continue to fight like the Kilkenny cats. Some resort to any means necessary to seize power, while others operate under the motto of sabotage if they cannot attain it. In these 14 years, some have come into power, and their associates have lived as if this country belongs solely to them. The social disparity has widened, and for the first time in history, Sri Lanka has declared bankruptcy. Instead of working toward a common goal, those in power offer a series of daydreams for us and urge us to stay alert and work hard. Meanwhile, they continue to plunder. According to reliable sources, some ministers even demand a 30 per cent commission from foreign investors.
A young foreign journalist who spent over two years in Colombo recently witnessed this shameful reality. During a casual conversation, he remarked, ‘You know, Sri Lanka is full of liars.’ Is he wrong? No. From the highest echelons of leadership to the lowliest tuk-tuk drivers, a pervasive culture of deceit poisons every interaction. Our society is infested with a web of lies, weaving a tapestry of falsehoods that have brought our nation to the depths of despair. The rot of dishonesty runs deep, corroding the very fabric of our collective existence, leaving no room for trust or integrity. It is no surprise that our country languishes in this abyss of moral bankruptcy. So, no matter what reality is telling us. It is time to celebrate our victorious triumph over that long-departed soul of the deceitful butcher! Let us name it ‘victory’, and continue the usual game of deception.
You might be interested in
Editorial
Recently, one of the state-run daily newspapers in Sri Lanka printed and circulated a picture of a deceased man who allegedly committed suicide in his rented room, on its front page. Although this newspaper does not have a significant demand in the market, it has been circulated in many schools, public libraries, and other state and private institutions at public expense. Therefore, by default, it carries a social responsibility. In its prime, readers bought it to learn something new and valuable for life, but now it has turned into a collection of rants from whoever is at the top.
The newspaper portrayed the young man as heavily involved in “Aragalaya,” which they identified as an act of treachery. This portrayal was nothing but an attempt to propagate pathetic political propaganda of whoever is in power. The feeble behaviour of the editor of this newspaper proves that he is deeply obsessed with dead bodies of whomever they can portray as anti-government or anti-state.
Unfortunately, the state authority has once again shown indifference to such inhuman actions, and the editor does not seem to feel guilty or accountable for himself. If this had occurred in any other country, not only would the editor have been immediately dismissed from his position which he attained through political patronage, but also been held accountable under the country’s laws.
It is deeply concerning that manufacturing shock and trauma among the general public through crime reporting has become a trend in Sri Lanka. This is not just limited to state-run newspapers but also certain private media outfits, which plant shocks and sorrows through their reporting by exhibiting dead bodies and the tears of their loved ones. This practice needs to stop immediately.
It is time for journalists in every media house, as well as social media superstars who often portray themselves as true social reformists, to reassess their conduct and implement appropriate ethical standards. The media has a responsibility to report truthfully and objectively, without using human tragedy and suffering to manipulate public opinion for political gain. It is high time for Sri Lanka’s media to realize this and uphold the dignity and respect for human life and privacy.
The recent tragic incident in Kenya demonstrates how journalism and reporting can be carried out with a greater degree of social responsibility. The tragedy that occurred at the Good News International Church, where hundreds of people starved to death due to the cult leader Paul Mackenzie’s false promises, is a stark reminder of the importance of responsible reporting. When the exhumation process started, the government and other officials strictly advised all media outlets to adhere to higher degrees of norms and ethics in their reporting. They were advised not to display dead bodies of their fellow men and women, and the areas were declared crime scenes.
It is remarkable to observe that most media channels in Kenya followed these general ethical principles in reporting on this shocking event. This is a valuable lesson for fellow editors and journalists in Sri Lanka. It is time to stop selling sorrows and dead bodies of our fellow men and women, no matter what caused their death. Sri Lanka may be the only country that telecasts dead bodies during times when most households are having dinner. It is a barbaric media practice that needs to stop immediately.
Furthermore, it is important not to provide any CCTV footage to telecast on media on crime scenes as it can have an extremely negative impact on the general public. Footages of this nature should be retained by law enforcement agencies, who can use them to prevent future occurrences and increase public awareness. Allowing media channels to broadcast such footage with the sole aim of increasing ratings or printing it to sensationalize and cause trauma only highlights our society’s lack of ethical standards.
You might be interested in
Editorial
At first, many were surprised that CNN, a well-known anti-Trump media channel, decided to host an extraordinary show featuring former President Donald J. Trump and young CNN journalist Kaitlan Collins in a fiery town hall at St. Anselm College in New Hampshire. Despite the initial surprise, the programme turned out to be a major win for Trump, who used the hour-long program as an opportunity to make a comeback.
Many viewers were shocked by how Collins, a relatively young journalist, lost her own control as a TV host in a discussion with a man who has beaten many others on stage. In TV shows, unfortunately, many journalists have less understanding, it’s not necessarily about who tells the truth or who you agree with, but who wins the debate and entertains the audience. While the later attempts by CNN and other anti-Trump media channels to downplay the programme may be less relevant, it’s clear that this programme has outperformed the interview Trump gave to Tucker Carlson a few days before his fetal termination from FOX.
It’s unfortunate to see a young journalist like Kaitlan become a victim to this Machiavellian politician who seems to have sharpened his mind and thoughts even more since serving as the head of one of the most influential nations on the planet. Even more surprising was the appearance of Anderson Cooper, one of CNN’s most prominent journalists, to deliver the concluding remarks without actually hosting the show.
Despite Trump’s impressive performance, the interview did reveal his careful approach to conflicts, particularly regarding the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war. It’s sad to see the strength of journalists shattered on a public stage due to immaturity or lack of preparation and prejudices on international humanitarian issues. However, this show has allowed us to realize that the USA is once again entering a remarkable and interesting political drama. While we can’t predict the outcome of the 2024 elections, it’s clear that Trump’s performance in this show has alerted the deep state and ruling Democrats to rethink and redesign their political strategies. If one seeks to neutralize Trump, he shall be destroyed by his own actions rather than external parties. In order to achieve this, one must know how to use Trump against himself, rather than resorting to the arrogant approach taken by politicians like Nancy Pelosi.
You might be interested in
Editorial
Sri Lankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, has been in operation since 1979. Since then, the airline has grown in size and reputation, with a strong emphasis on providing high-quality service to its passengers. However, like any other airline, Sri Lankan Airlines has faced many challenges in its history and continues to face many more in the present and future.
Despite providing exceptional services to its customers, Sri Lankan Airlines has been subject to a great deal of negative publicity in recent years. Much of this bad publicity is based on accusations of malpractice, corruption, and financial mismanagement within the airline. While it is important for the media to investigate and report on such allegations, it is equally important to ensure that any claims made are based on solid evidence, rather than mere speculation or rumor.
One of the key challenges facing Sri Lankan Airlines is the need to stay competitive in an increasingly crowded and competitive market. The airline has faced stiff competition from other airlines in the region, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines, all of which offer similar levels of service and comfort. To remain competitive, Sri Lankan Airlines has had to focus on improving its services and adopting new technologies, such as online booking and user-friendly check-in systems, as well as in-flight entertainment systems. Another challenge facing Sri Lankan Airlines is the need to maintain a high level of safety and security for its passengers. In recent years, the airline has implemented a number of measures to enhance its safety and security procedures, including the installation of advanced screening equipment at its airports, as well as the implementation of strict security protocols for its ground staff and crew members.
Despite these challenges, Sri Lankan Airlines has continued to provide excellent service to its passengers. The airline has a reputation for being warm and welcoming, with crew members who are always ready to go the extra mile to ensure that their passengers are comfortable and happy. The airline’s ground staff are also highly trained and knowledgeable, with a deep understanding of the airline’s operations and procedures.
National carriers play a crucial role in representing the cultural, social, and economic values of their respective countries. They are an extension of the country’s identity and a symbol of national pride. A strong and efficient national carrier is not only essential for the country’s economy, but also for its reputation in the global community. National carriers can have a significant impact on a country’s tourism industry, as they are often the first point of contact for many foreign visitors. An airline that provides exceptional service can create a positive impression of the country and encourage visitors to return in the future. Additionally, national carriers can help to create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth, both directly and indirectly.
To reform and preserve the qualities that make a national carrier exceptional, it is important to focus on transparency, accountability, and good governance. This involves the implementation of strict regulatory frameworks, robust oversight mechanisms, and effective management practices. It also involves investing in staff development and training, to ensure that employees have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide exceptional service.
Another important aspect of preserving the qualities of a national carrier is to focus on innovation and adaptation. The airline industry is constantly evolving, and it is important for national carriers to stay up to date with the latest advancements in technology, management practices, and customer service. This requires a culture of continuous improvement and a willingness to embrace change. By focusing on transparency, accountability, good governance, staff development, and innovation, countries can ensure that their national carriers continue to represent their national pride and identity for generations to come.
Looking to the future, Sri Lankan Airlines faces a number of challenges that will need to be addressed if it is to continue to thrive in the highly competitive airline industry. One of the key challenges will be to attract and retain highly skilled and experienced staff, including pilots, engineers, and customer service personnel. This will require a significant investment in training and development programs, as well as the implementation of competitive remuneration packages and benefits. Sri Lankan Airlines will face the challenge of keeping up with the ever-evolving technological advancements in the airline industry. Staying current would necessitate substantial investments in research and development, and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, such as in-flight Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art aircraft.
In summary, Sri Lankan Airlines stands as a source of national pride with a remarkable legacy in the aviation industry. Despite the multitude of obstacles it has faced in recent times, the airline remains steadfast in its commitment to providing top-notch service, prioritizing safety, security, and customer satisfaction above all else. However, to ensure its continued prosperity, Sri Lankan Airlines must confront a host of challenges, such as remaining competitive in a crowded market, maintaining its strict standards for safety and security, and keeping pace with the latest technological innovations. By proactively addressing these challenges, Sri Lankan Airlines can uphold its reputation for excellence and provide its valued customers with unparalleled experiences for many years to come.
You might be interested in
