The Devil is at the gate !!

Truth be told, I have been very un-civic minded, totally unconcerned about the forthcoming Presidential elections. Did not want to waste my time.

The UNP that I have traditionally backed has failed to deliver.  They have failed to deliver justice for crimes of previous regime as promised and have created their own.  Ranil is intent on hanging onto power with no compunction whatsoever.

The incumbent President is intent on making the most of his position.  He cannot decide which camp he falls into, or which horse to place his fortunes on. Although elected with much hope, he has turned out to be devious and scheming.  We realise now that he showed his true colours in ousting/betraying the President of his own party.

Rajapaksha himself is always tainted by scandals whilst in and out of office  but continues blithely in his own bubble. Appointed PM in a questionable action

A MURDER MOST FOUL

Journalist and Editor of the Sunday Leader Lasantha Wickrematunge was shot in the head by cold blooded killers whilst on his way to work on 8th January 2009

In an uncanny editorial published posthumously a few days later like a voice from the grave, Lasantha predicted his murder and laid the blame for it squarely on the government of President Mahinda Rajapaksa – our incumbent president.     http://www.thesundayleader.lk/20090111/editorial-.htm

It seems a strange twist of fate, that the same government will be holding a Presidential election on the anniversary of  the murder most foul: 8th January which the sooth sayers have apparently fixed as the most auspicious date.   Dejavue ?

An article I wrote which was published in the Sunday Times in January 2009  is being posted here as a reminder to us to follow the call of conscience for the truth will set us free.

LEST WE  FORGET …. 

WHERE WAS I WHEN THEY CAME FOR MY BROTHER?

My soul is searching … pouring over innumerable articles that have been penned in papers and on the net … hoping to find a word that might still the restlessness I feel following the vicious and vengeful slaying of a fearless journalist.

Why do I feel this way?  I did not know Lasantha personally though I occasionally read his articles and knew about his courageous investigations.

Of the many thousands of words spoken and written since his murder, some strike home – sear home – seeking an acknowledgement.  Echoes taken up by D Mark and others – where was I?  Where was I when Lasantha needed another voice to support him?   Where was I “when they came for him”?   Where have I been all this time …like Nero carrying on blithely whilst my country descended into darkness?