“Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely,” famously uttered by Lord Acton, 19th century English historian remains an immutable truth in the history of governance. It resonates deeply in societies where the concentration of power has led to inequality, injustice, and societal strife.
In Sri Lanka, a nation that has recently undergone significant political upheaval, the question of how power is wielded—and whether it will be used justly—has become more critical than ever. A complete transformation of the political system has taken place, signaling both a tremendous victory and the promise of change, but it also raises concerns about the future. As Sri Lanka embarks on this new chapter, it faces the challenge of ensuring that the power now at the helm is used for the greater good, fostering equality, justice, and a better future for all citizens.
Sri Lanka’s political landscape has been in a state of flux, with profound shifts reshaping the country’s governance and the nature of political authority. The historic victories won by the people and their leaders are more than just symbolic milestones; they represent the very real hope for a transformation towards a more accountable, transparent, and inclusive system.
It is, in many ways, a turning point—a moment that could either propel Sri Lanka into a future where fairness, equality, and justice flourish, or one that repeats the patterns of abuse and corruption from the past. The present mood in the country suggests a new energy, an optimistic vibration pulsing through the masses—a belief that things could indeed change. However, as history has shown, change is only as meaningful as the power that drives it.
Sri Lanka’s political system has often been plagued by the centralization of authority, where power has concentrated in the hands of a few, leaving many disenfranchised and marginalized. The consequences of this consolidation of power have been felt across generations. From economic inequality to a lack of accountability in governance, the structure has often supported those at the top while neglecting the needs of the wider population. The people of Sri Lanka, throughout their tumultuous history, have struggled with systems that have allowed corruption and mismanagement to thrive.
As we look at the present situation, there is palpable hope that this historical pattern of abuse will be broken. The recent change has brought with it the promise of a fresh start, one that could offer a more equitable distribution of power. For the first time in years, there is optimism that the leadership in Sri Lanka will not repeat the mistakes of the past. The key to realizing this hope lies in the careful and responsible use of the power now being entrusted to those in leadership roles.
The current political environment in Sri Lanka suggests that a shift towards greater fairness is not just a pipe dream. The power now wielded by the political class must not be used as a tool of control, but as a means to uplift the country and its people. If Sri Lanka is to thrive, this new power must be wielded with humility, accountability, and a genuine commitment to justice. Leaders must recognize that their power is not their own—it belongs to the people who entrusted them with it. Therefore, the responsibility that accompanies power must be embraced with a sense of moral duty. The nation has suffered too much from the arrogance of unchecked power; it cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes.
There are several elements that need to be addressed if Sri Lanka is to avoid the pitfalls of the past. First and foremost, there must be a commitment to equality. The idea that all citizens, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or socio-economic status, deserve equal treatment and opportunities must be deeply embedded in the political ethos. This requires dismantling the long-standing systems of patronage that have allowed elites to maintain control while the majority remains disenfranchised.
The true strength of a democracy lies in its ability to ensure that all people are treated with dignity and respect, and that their rights are protected, regardless of their position in society.
In a country like Sri Lanka, where ethnic tensions have often resulted in divisions and violence, fostering national unity is a vital part of ensuring long-term peace and stability. The political leadership must work tirelessly to bridge divides and create an inclusive society that celebrates diversity while promoting mutual respect.
The message of equality must be reflected in both policy and practice, not just in rhetoric. Whether it’s addressing issues of ethnic representation, ensuring equal access to resources, or protecting the rights of women and marginalized communities, the government’s actions must align with its promises.
Justice and accountability must be at the core of this new political era. For years, Sri Lankans have lived with the consequences of corruption, poor governance, and a lack of transparency.
The people have suffered due to the mismanagement of resources, political patronage, and a general disregard for the rule of law. The current moment presents an opportunity to build a political culture rooted in transparency, where public officials are held accountable for their actions. This will require robust institutions, a free press, and the active participation of civil society.
Only through these mechanisms can the government be truly held accountable for its decisions, and the people ensured that their leaders remain true to their promises.
The international community also has a role to play in ensuring that Sri Lanka’s political transformation remains on track. While the country’s sovereignty must be respected, international partnerships—especially in areas such as economic development, human rights, and governance—can provide valuable support. As Sri Lanka seeks to rebuild its economy and strengthen its democratic institutions, it can draw on the experiences and best practices of other nations that have successfully navigated similar challenges.
However, as much as the political leadership and institutions are pivotal to the country’s future, the active participation of the people is equally critical.
The power of democracy lies in its citizens’ ability to hold their leaders accountable. For Sri Lanka’s political system to truly change, the public must remain vigilant and engaged. This means not only voting in elections but also participating in the ongoing civic dialogue, holding leaders accountable, and standing up for what is right. The people’s voice, when united and determined, is an unparalleled force for change.
As the country moves forward, the challenge is clear: to ensure that the power now in the hands of the government is used judiciously and responsibly.
The transformation in Sri Lanka presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the country to rebuild itself on a foundation of fairness, justice, and equality.
But this will only happen if those in positions of power recognize that leadership is not about control or domination; it is about service. Power, in its truest form, is a tool for the betterment of society—not a means to perpetuate privilege or oppression.
Sri Lanka stands at a crossroads. The current political shift brings with it the promise of a more just and equitable society, but it also carries the risk of repeating past mistakes if power is not wielded with care. It is not enough to simply hope for change; we must actively work to ensure that this moment is not squandered. By embracing equality, fostering justice, and holding leaders accountable, Sri Lanka can move forward into a future where power is used for the benefit of all—not just the few. The road ahead is challenging, but it is also filled with potential. It is up to the people and their leaders to seize this opportunity and shape a future where fairness and equality are not just ideals but realities for all.
