-By Muslim Affairs Editor
(Lanka-e-News -30.Oct.2024, 9.45 pm) In a scene all too familiar, election season has descended upon Sri Lanka, and with it comes the same faces, promises, and colorful photo ops. Yet this time, a buzz is growing in the Muslim community. Instead of the usual rounds of promises from long-standing politicians who promptly vanish once elected, some are looking to a new party: the National People’s Power (NPP). So, why should Sri Lankan Muslims give the NPP a closer look in the upcoming election? Let’s explore, with a bit of wit and wisdom.
Let’s start with a walk down memory lane, a lane strewn with unfulfilled promises and suspiciously quiet political representatives. For decades, Muslim politicians in traditional and Muslim-based parties have sung the same tune: “Vote for us, and we’ll make things better!” And year after year, loyal voters believed. Yet, once the polls closed and the confetti was swept up, these leaders seemed to vanish into thin air, only to resurface five years later with yet another round of empty assurances.
What’s worse, these politicians haven’t just been absent – they’ve been downright elusive. Ask a Sri Lankan Muslim from any province about their elected representative, and they might struggle to remember their face, let alone their accomplishments. Community development? Little progress. Addressing pressing concerns? Nada. Yet, despite their absence in the community, they’ve managed to show up at religious ceremonies, diplomatic events, and international summits – often for the photo op rather than any actual work.
For some of these politicians, however, “absence” doesn’t mean they’ve been sitting idle. Oh no. They’ve been quite busy – just not in ways that benefit the community. Investigations and leaks have revealed that a few leaders have been indulging in a luxurious lifestyle funded by questionable means. Lavish apartments, high-end real estate, and rumors of stashing international donations (meant for community welfare) into private accounts have tarnished the image of these so-called “leaders.”
Let’s not even mention the lavish international tours, purportedly to represent Sri Lanka’s Muslims on the global stage. Did they bring back any meaningful support or resources? Hardly. But they did manage to post plenty of photos online, smiling under the guise of “working for the people.” It’s no wonder many in the community have started questioning: Is this really the best we can expect from our leaders?
Amid this history of neglect and frustration, the NPP has emerged as a breath of fresh air. Their promises aren’t based on photo ops or flashy events, but on a grounded vision of justice, equality, and real reform. One thing that has particularly resonated with Sri Lankan Muslims is the NPP’s approach to communal politics – or rather, their rejection of it.
The NPP is vocal about reducing communal divides, pushing for unity, and, most importantly, upholding the rule of law. In a country where minority groups, especially Muslims, have often felt sidelined or targeted, the promise of equal treatment under the law is not just refreshing; it’s essential. Under the NPP, there’s a commitment to treat everyone with the same standards – regardless of ethnicity or religion.
One moment that truly highlighted the NPP’s stance was the Arugam Bay incident. In a situation that could have easily spiraled into religious tension, the NPP’s response was measured, respectful, and inclusive. No police raids on mosques, no inflammatory statements against Muslims, no discriminatory action.
For the first time in a while, there was a sense that the government wasn’t interested in targeting or marginalizing a community. This response wasn’t just a relief – it felt like a promise kept. If the NPP could handle a sensitive incident like this with respect and restraint, it suggested that their commitment to fairness was genuine, not just a campaign slogan.
Even the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU), a prominent Muslim body, has taken note. In a surprising move, the ACJU has urged the Muslim community to seriously consider voting for the NPP, pointing to the party’s track record and their efforts to maintain Muslim dignity and reputation in the public sphere.
Let’s be real: for Sri Lankan Muslims, the promise of a strong, impartial legal system is more than a policy point. It’s personal. In the past, some leaders have stirred up anti-Muslim sentiment, spewing hate speech, vandalizing properties, or rallying mobs. And in many cases, these offenders seemed untouchable, as though the law didn’t apply to them.
But under an NPP government, the message is clear: No one is above the law. This isn’t just a comforting slogan; it’s a necessary assurance for minority communities. For too long, Muslims have had to live with the reality that perpetrators of anti-Muslim sentiment could act with impunity. With the NPP, there’s a chance for a different future – one where rule of law truly applies to all.
NPP’s political strategy seems different. They’re not interested in the “divide and rule” tactics of old. Instead, they aim to create a Sri Lanka where everyone – Muslims, Tamils, Sinhalese, and others – have a stake and voice in governance. Rather than relying on racial or religious identity for political gain, the NPP seeks unity, welcoming diverse perspectives in their vision for governance.
For the Muslim community, this approach is particularly appealing. It’s exhausting to constantly see religious identity used as a political tool, manipulated to incite fear or division. The NPP’s promise to embrace all communities without favoritism or discrimination is a chance for genuine progress. By putting national interest above ethnic or religious divides, the NPP offers Muslims, and all Sri Lankans, a real chance at building an inclusive future.
The NPP has proven itself to be a party that values equality, justice, and transparency – qualities the Muslim community has long sought in its leaders. Voting for the NPP isn’t just about turning a page on the old, stagnant politics of the past. It’s a chance for Sri Lankan Muslims to be part of a government that’s genuinely interested in serving all people, not just the select few with connections or power.
Consider the options: on one hand, there’s a history of broken promises, absentee politicians, and corruption scandals. On the other, there’s the NPP, offering respect, a commitment to the rule of law, and an inclusive approach to governance.
The choice seems clear. Voting for the NPP isn’t just a rejection of past disappointments; it’s a vote for a new era of accountability and unity. In a time when the Muslim community is in dire need of real representation, the NPP stands out as a party that not only talks the talk but walks the walk.
So, to the Muslim voters of Sri Lanka: this election offers a rare chance to demand more. To choose leaders who don’t just show up at the mosque once every five years, but who are truly committed to fairness, justice, and peace.
The NPP’s record speaks for itself – no flashy promises, no divisive tactics, just a commitment to equality and integrity. It’s time to move away from leaders who use the community as a stepping stone for their own gain and to support a party that respects and represents all Sri Lankans.
This election, a vote for the NPP isn’t just a vote for a party; it’s a vote for a vision of Sri Lanka that’s fair, united, and truly inclusive.
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by (2024-10-30 16:19:47)
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