While Sri Lanka navigates its complex challenges, a focus on solutions is crucial. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, recognising this urgency, has implemented policies aimed at political and economic recovery. These proactive measures have instilled a sense of hope and optimism for the future.
However, constructive criticism and scrutiny are also vital components of a healthy democracy. The role of the Opposition is to propose alternative solutions and hold the Government accountable. While their recent stance on President Wickremesinghe’s visit to the North may differ, their right to voice their concerns should be acknowledged.
Moving forward, a collaborative approach that leverages diverse perspectives is the key. Finding common ground on pressing issues, regardless of political affiliation, will ultimately benefit the entire nation. Embracing open dialogue and constructive debate can pave the way for a more stable and prosperous Sri Lanka.
President Wickremesinghe’s historic four-day official visit to the North marks a shift in focus, placing development and reconciliation at the forefront. Unlike past leaders who visited solely for electoral gain, the President arrived with concrete plans and a dedication to tackling long-standing issues.
Region
His commitment to returning war-lost income to the region within five years resonated deeply with the people. This commitment, coupled with proactive engagement in addressing unresolved challenges, signals a new era of genuine development and progress for the North.
The President’s emphasis on prioritising development in the first half of the year, followed by key elections in 2025, demonstrates a clear roadmap for the region’s future. His active participation in development discussions, even in an election year, further underlines his genuine commitment to the North’s well-being.
Instead of dwelling solely on the war’s aftermath, President Wickremesinghe focuses on forging a brighter future. This forward-looking approach offers hope and inspires confidence in the North’s long-overdue journey towards prosperity and a thriving future.
Usually, visits by Southern politicians to the war-torn North focus solely on the lingering problems from the conflict, even 15 years after its end. However, President Wickremesinghe took a different approach during his recent trip to Jaffna. He made a bold promise to deal with all war-related issues within two years and propel the North towards full development.
His visit was not just about promises, though. What was done during the President’s visit to the North?
He convened a special meeting with District Liaison Committees from Jaffna and Kilinochchi Districts, urging Government officials to finalise the resettlement of displaced persons by 2025. Representatives from both the political and official spheres were present, ensuring a comprehensive discussion of the region’s challenges. The President promptly addressed some issues on the spot, demonstrating his commitment to concrete action.
Land ownership remains a significant hurdle, and President Wickremesinghe acknowledged this. He promised to send officials from the Ministry of Lands to Jaffna to find immediate solutions and tackle this crucial problem head-on. His commitment extended beyond Jaffna, as he also participated in a discussion on development activities in Vavuniya, Mannar and Mullaitivu Districts, showcasing his dedication to the broader region’s progress.
The key to his visit was a comprehensive discussion regarding education, health, resettlement, land rights, utilities, tourism, environmental protection and fisheries in the districts of Vavuniya, Mannar and Mullaitivu.
The President then turned his attention to the development of Pooneryn City, reviewing the detailed plan crafted by the Urban Development Authority (UDA). He allocated Rs.500 million from the 2024 Budget for this purpose, emphasizing the importance of revitalising the tourism sector and bolstering infrastructure for Renewable Energy projects.
His itinerary also included a visit to the historic Dutch Fort in Pooneryn and a tour of a high-quality cashew production facility run by a young entrepreneur, exemplifying the region’s potential for economic growth. He further demonstrated his commitment to the youth by engaging with students at the University of Jaffna, actively seeking solutions to their challenges.
Throughout his journey, the President fostered collaboration across various sectors. He convened a meeting with all religious leaders in the Northern Province, acknowledging their vital role in promoting harmony and seeking their input on nation-building initiatives. This inclusive approach resonated with the religious leaders, who offered their blessings for the President’s vision of a unified Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, President Wickremesinghe also met the lifeblood of the region – the industrialists, fishermen and farmers – listening intently to the practical challenges they faced. Discussions were not mere formalities – the President delved into solutions, promptly relevant officials and authorities to address their concerns.
His commitment to a brighter future for the North was palpable, with a clear message: such impediments must not hinder progress any longer.
President Wickremesinghe’s thirst for understanding extended beyond these primary sectors. He sought the counsel of Jaffna’s professionals, the intellectual backbone of the University, and the legal minds of the Bar Association of Jaffna. Each encounter was an opportunity to gather valuable insights and perspectives, weaving a tapestry of the community’s needs and aspirations. His interest in civil society’s voice was equally evident, as he sat down with Arun Siddharth, Chairman of the Jaffna Civil Society Centre, demonstrating a keenness to hear from the ground level.
But the President’s visit was not solely about policy and progress. He took a moment to celebrate individual triumphs, personally congratulating Akila Thirunayake for her international athletic achievements. This genuine recognition of a local hero served as a reminder that hope and aspiration reside in every corner of Jaffna, not just in boardrooms and conference halls. He also listened to a song sung by Kilmisha Udayasheelan, the Little Champ from the North who won an Indian Reality TV contest.
In essence, President Wickremesinghe’s visit to Jaffna was not a fleeting snapshot. It was a sincere effort to connect, understand, and pave the way for a brighter future for the region. He listened, he engaged, and he promised action, leaving behind a sense of optimism and a renewed belief in the possibility of positive change.
The Western Province, contributing over 50 percent to the national economy, currently serves as the primary economic engine. The President’s vision includes establishing four additional economic engines in the South, North, Central, and North-Western (Wayamba) Provinces. The long-term plan involves expanding the number of regional engines to five for running the country’s economy.
The President’s recent visit to the North played a crucial role in formulating a basic plan to develop the region and integrate it into the overall national development strategy. Despite urging politicians in the North to contribute to the plan’s advancement, some seem indifferent, potentially due to a continued focus on local or ethnic issues.
Despite this, a substantial number of moderate Northern politicians believe in the President’s nationwide development program. Notably, the people of the North show a positive attitude towards President Wickremesinghe’s laudable initiatives. A young farmer expressing his views said; “Politicians have made numerous promises, yet many remain unfulfilled.
However, there is a sense that progress is now under way. Uniting once divided and conflict-ridden communities is challenging, but it is essential to end that division. We aspire to foster education for our children instead of perpetuating hate. What resonated with me the most was the President expressing faith in the farmers of the North and in agriculture in general.
It brought back memories of my grandfather mentioning the Jaffna salt, sold locally and sent throughout the country via Colombo. The President’s belief in us provides the courage needed for positive change. I am confident that the mindset of our people is evolving, much like mine.”
The President mingled freely with the masses during this trip and heard their opinions on various issues. He promised to study their concerns in-depth when formulating further economic and development plans for the region, apart from a solution for the National Question. It was a fruitful visit that would lay a firm foundation for Northern prosperity.
