-By A Special Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -20.Sep.2024, 11.25 pm) In the run-up to Sri Lanka’s crucial elections, concerns have emerged regarding the activities of the Pathfinder Foundation, a think tank established by Milinda Moragoda. Allegations suggest that the institute is working covertly to prevent the rise of Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the National People’s Power (NPP), as a viable political contender.
Moragoda, a former Sri Lankan politician with close ties to powerful international players, including India and the U.S., is accused of using his think tank to influence the country’s political landscape. His connections raise questions about the true purpose of Pathfinder, which critics claim is not merely an independent research institute, but a tool for advancing foreign interests and shaping Sri Lanka’s domestic policies in favor of certain business elites and international actors.
One of the key accusations centers on Moragoda’s anti-China stance. Pathfinder has been promoting discussions and dialogues that encourage countering Chinese influence in Sri Lanka. This, critics say, aligns with Moragoda’s close ties to India, particularly through his relationship with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. In fact, last month, Moragoda reportedly handed Doval a policy document recommending that Sri Lanka adopt Indian defense and foreign policies—essentially advocating for Sri Lanka to cede control over parts of its security and intelligence apparatus to India.
Pathfinder’s anti-China position is seen by some as a direct threat to Sri Lanka’s sovereignty. The think tank has actively promoted closer ties with India and the U.S. while simultaneously painting China as a threat to the island’s independence. Critics argue that this narrative is being used to undermine Anura Kumara Dissanayake, whose policies favor national sovereignty and a balanced foreign policy, including maintaining strong ties with China.
Moragoda’s own financial dealings add fuel to the fire. He has been linked to a substantial loan taken from the Sri Lankan state bank, which remains unpaid. Despite this, Moragoda secured a diplomatic post in India, raising questions about his political influence. His role as a diplomat, combined with his business interests and foreign connections, has led some to question his loyalty to Sri Lanka.
Further complicating the picture are Moragoda’s ties to John Keells Holdings, one of the largest conglomerates in Sri Lanka. John Keells is the local agent for India’s Adani Group, which has become a significant player in Sri Lanka’s energy sector. Adani’s involvement in Sri Lankan projects, including the controversial Eastern Terminal deal, has been met with opposition due to concerns over monopolization and foreign control of critical infrastructure.
Notably, Pathfinder has remained silent on the monopolistic tendencies of Adani’s ventures in Sri Lanka. Critics claim this is because Moragoda has a vested interest in these deals. John Keells, through its connections with Adani, stands to benefit from these projects, which require Sri Lankan government guarantees for overseas loans. Despite this, Pathfinder has not addressed these concerns, focusing instead on promoting an anti-China agenda.
The accusations against Moragoda and Pathfinder highlight a broader concern about foreign influence in Sri Lanka’s domestic affairs. With the country’s economy in crisis and an election looming, many fear that think tanks like Pathfinder are being used as vehicles to shape public opinion and sway policy in favor of foreign interests and business elites.
Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s NPP platform calls for transparency, accountability, and the protection of national sovereignty. His rise poses a threat to the interests of those who benefit from the status quo, including foreign actors and business elites connected to Pathfinder. As the election approaches, the role of think tanks like Pathfinder, and their ties to powerful foreign and business interests, will be scrutinized more closely.
Critics argue that Milinda Moragoda and his think tank should be held accountable for their influence on Sri Lankan policy. They are calling for a full investigation into Pathfinder’s funding sources and its role in shaping public discourse. Furthermore, they demand that Moragoda repay the loan he borrowed from the state bank and disclose his business dealings.
As Sri Lanka navigates this turbulent political period, the activities of think tanks like Pathfinder will continue to be a focal point of controversy. The question remains: is Pathfinder working in the best interests of the Sri Lankan people, or is it a vehicle for advancing the interests of foreign powers and business elites? For many, the answer is clear, and they are calling for action to ensure that Sri Lanka’s future remains in the hands of its own people.
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by (2024-09-20 20:10:29)
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