-By A Staff Writer
(Lanka-e-News -18.Nov.2024,11.00 pm) In a political drama that has gripped Sri Lanka, former Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake has once again made headlines, this time amidst allegations of backdoor maneuvering to secure a seat in Parliament through the National List. The controversy has sparked intense debate, with accusations that Karunanayake is attempting to bypass the electoral process and tarnish the credibility of the democratic system.
The turmoil began when reports emerged that Karunanayake, who failed to secure a significant voter base during his recent political campaign, had sent a letter to the Election Commission through his party secretary, Shyamila Perera, demanding to be appointed to Parliament. The letter, backed by the Gas Cylinder Party—a relatively obscure political entity—has triggered widespread outrage, particularly among members of the New Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), which played a pivotal role in the alliance’s electoral success.
The National List, a mechanism designed to bring experts and qualified individuals into Parliament, has often been mired in controversy. In this case, Karunanayake’s demand for a National List position has raised questions about its misuse. Critics argue that he is leveraging his connections and exploiting loopholes to bypass the electorate, despite having failed to secure even a thousand votes in the election.
This controversy has also reignited tensions within the New Democratic Alliance. SLFP members, who significantly contributed to the alliance’s success by securing numerous parliamentary seats, are now demanding that the National List position be allocated to one of their own. They accuse Karunanayake of attempting to hijack the process for personal gain, undermining the collective effort of the alliance.
Karunanayake’s political career has been marred by controversy. A former Finance Minister, he was forced to resign in disgrace after being implicated in the infamous Central Bank bond scam, a scandal that shook Sri Lanka’s political and financial institutions. His alleged involvement in corruption and money laundering, including accusations against his London-based company secretary, has left an indelible stain on his reputation.
The public outcry against Karunanayake’s latest move is palpable. Many see this as yet another attempt by a politically tainted figure to re-enter the corridors of power, not through merit or public support, but through manipulation and backroom deals.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, leader of the New Democratic Alliance, now faces a critical decision. Known for his strategic political maneuvering, Wickremesinghe must decide whether to support Karunanayake’s bid or to distance himself from the controversy.
This decision carries significant implications. On one hand, endorsing Karunanayake could further tarnish the President’s image, given the latter’s controversial past. On the other hand, refusing Karunanayake’s demand could deepen internal divisions within the alliance and alienate certain factions.
Political analysts suggest that Wickremesinghe is likely to prioritize stability and public perception over personal loyalties. However, Karunanayake’s insistence on being appointed to Parliament could force Wickremesinghe into a corner, testing his leadership and his commitment to transparency.
The controversy has sparked widespread criticism across Sri Lanka. Activists, political commentators, and ordinary citizens have expressed outrage over Karunanayake’s actions, labeling him a “crybaby” attempting to exploit the system for personal gain.
Social media platforms have been flooded with calls for accountability, with many urging the Election Commission and President Wickremesinghe to reject Karunanayake’s demands. The phrase “No Backdoor Politics” has begun trending, reflecting public sentiment against politicians who seek to undermine democratic processes.
One citizen, echoing widespread frustration, remarked, “If Ravi Karunanayake cannot win the trust of the people through an election, he has no right to enter Parliament. This is a disgrace to our democracy.”
As the controversy unfolds, it has become the biggest political scandal of the election season. The Gas Cylinder Party, which Karunanayake is allegedly using as a vehicle for his ambitions, has come under scrutiny. Many are questioning how a party with minimal public support could be used to influence the National List process.
The SLFP, too, has increased its pressure on the NDA leadership, demanding clarity on the allocation of National List positions. Senior SLFP members have warned that any attempt to appoint Karunanayake could lead to a fallout within the alliance, jeopardizing its stability and future prospects.
For Karunanayake, this episode is a stark reminder of the challenges of rebuilding a tarnished political career. While he continues to insist on his right to a National List position, the mounting opposition from within and outside his alliance suggests that his ambitions may face significant roadblocks.
For President Wickremesinghe, this is a pivotal moment. His response to this controversy will not only shape public perception of his leadership but also determine the future trajectory of the New Democratic Alliance.
As the nation watches, one thing is clear: the people of Sri Lanka are demanding accountability, transparency, and an end to the culture of political manipulation. Whether the President and his alliance rise to meet these expectations remains to be seen.
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by (2024-11-19 00:08:20)
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