Sri Lanka: Embracing a Vibrant Future – By Dr Harold Gunatillake
Written by Dr Harold Gunatillake, a recipient of the Order of Australia, who is now settled in Sri Lanka.
Imagine a Sri Lanka where the sun shines brightly on a land rich with opportunity and promise. As we look ahead, the possibilities for growth and revitalisation are endless. From nurturing our stunning landscapes to harnessing innovative technologies, Sri Lanka is poised to embark on an exciting journey toward a prosperous future. Let’s explore the potential that awaits and build a brighter tomorrow for all!
In 1956, I was a young intern doctor at the General Hospital in Colombo, residing at 123 Regent Street at the vicarage with Father Basil Jayawardena, the vicar of St. Paul’s Church on Kinsey Road in Punchi Borella.
When SWRD won the election by a significant majority, leaving only five seats for the UNP, the commoner’s joyful reaction was a spontaneous expression of happiness, a burst of hope and excitement that filled the air.
They shouted the slogan, “Even if we starve, we have our government,” and danced with broomsticks in the streets.
The year 1956 is crucial in the ethnic politics of Sri Lanka, marking the first instance of ethnic chauvinism used by a political party.
The 1956 elections in Sri Lanka, in which S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike emerged victorious, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s political history. His win resulted from several vital factors that reshaped the country’s political landscape, marking a significant moment in our history that we still feel the effects of today.
**Political Coalition**
Bandaranaike adeptly united various parties and groups to form the Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP), a broad political coalition. This coalition, which included the Sri Lanka Freedom Party, the Viplavakari Lanka Sama Samaja Party, the Sinhala Bhasha
Peramuna, and independent candidates, brought together different segments of society under a common cause. This unity significantly bolstered its electoral appeal, fostering a profound sense of togetherness and shared purpose, making everyone feel like they were part of something bigger.
Appeal to Sinhalese Nationalism
The campaign effectively tapped into the growing sentiments of Sinhalese nationalism, particularly the demand to establish Sinhala as the sole official language. This resonated with the majority of the Sinhalese population, who felt marginalised by previous government policies prioritising English and Tamil. The Sinhala Only Act, a significant legislative commitment, further strengthened this support and underscored the MEP’s dedication to prioritising Sinhalese identity.
This was the biggest mistake, though, prioritising a Sinhala-only policy. At the same time, Lee Quan Yue in Singapore used the magic word “Multiculturism,” which brought safety and political life to all major Chinese and minor Malays, Tamils, and Sinhala living in Singapore.
That’s an intriguing historical what-if! If SWRD Bandaranaike had been nominated by the UNP in 1956, the political landscape of Sri Lanka might have been quite different. Bandaranaike’s leadership and policies, particularly his emphasis on Sinhala nationalism and the “Sinhala Only” policy, would never arise as political opportunism to win the majority votes, significantly shaping the country’s political direction.
Had he been with the UNP, the party might have adopted some of his nationalist policies earlier, potentially altering the dynamics between the Sinhalese and Tamil communities. The UNP might have maintained a stronger hold on power, and the political alliances and rivalries that emerged later could have taken a different form.
Bandaranaike’s influence on Sri Lankan politics was profound. Significant changes and challenges marked his tenure as Prime Minister from 1956 to 1959, and his assassination in 1959 also had a lasting impact on the country’s political trajectory .
**Economic Context and Public Sentiment**
Before the elections, the United National Party (UNP) government faced criticism over poor economic performance and increasing social dissatisfaction. The MEP campaigned on a popular socialist platform, attracting voters disenchanted with the financial situation and promising change. Bandaranaike’s promises included redistributive economic policies that resonated with the electorate’s desire for an improved standard of living.
Mobilisation of Key Social Groups
Bandaranaike’s campaign was characterised by mobilising what was known as the “five great forces”—the Buddhist clergy, educators, Ayurvedic practitioners, farmers, and workers. This strategic outreach to vital social groups effectively galvanised support across various demographics.
No-Contest Agreement with Leftist Parties
The MEP entered into a no-contest agreement with the Communist Party and the Lanka Sama Samaja Party, ensuring that these parties would not compete against each other in crucial electoral regions. This strategic alliance reduced the split in the opposition vote, enabling a solid front against the UNP.
Shift in Political Dynamics
The 1956 elections shifted from elite-centered politics to a more inclusive approach. Bandaranaike’s ability to address electorates in their mother tongue rather than in English democratised the political discourse, making it more accessible to the general populace.
Effective Campaign Strategies
Bandaranaike’s campaign was characterised by powerful rhetoric and closely aligned promises with public sentiments, making the MEP’s agenda highly relatable to voters. His experience and political acumen enabled him to overcome initial doubts about the coalition’s viability and achieve unexpected electoral success.
Bandaranaike’s policies were significant for the so-called Sinhalese sarong-wearing johnnies, who realised that they had a place in the sun, without thinking that his policies were going to favour the wealthy, affluent English-speaking section of the community, who sent their children to more affluent countries to seek a solid English education.
The cream of the society also felt the pinch and, through frustration, left the shore for better pastures. The word ‘brain drain’ was coined Bandaranaike’s victory underscored a fundamental transformation in Sri Lanka’s political landscape, emphasising the growing dominance of Sinhalese nationalism and the significant impact of coalition politics in shaping electoral outcomes. His tenure after that would set policies that reshaped the nation’s socio-political fabric in motion.
Unfortunately, this transformation did not unite the nation composed of the Sinhalese, Tamila, Muslims, and other minorities, which led to more political dissent.”
Situation today
Sri Lanka stands at a pivotal moment in its history, grappling with the aftermath of a severe economic crisis while showing signs of stabilisation and resilience. The country’s economy is projected to grow moderately, with efforts to mitigate the crisis’s impact on the poor and vulnerable.
However, challenges such as elevated poverty levels, income inequality, and labour market concerns persist.
Promoting Tourism is our life saviour.
Tourism, a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s economy, offers hope for the future. As one of the top three industries, it significantly contributes to the national economy and foreign exchange revenue. Despite recent setbacks, the tourism sector is poised to rebound, driven by the island’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
To harness tourism’s full potential, Sri Lanka must focus on nhancing its tourist attractions and infrastructure. This includes investing in sustainable tourism practices, promoting lesser-known destinations, and improving the overall visitor experience. By
doing so, Sri Lanka can attract diverse tourists, boost economic growth, and create employment opportunities.
In conclusion, while Sri Lanka faces significant socioeconomic and political challenges, the future holds promise. By leveraging its tourism industry and implementing robust economic reforms, Sri Lanka can pave the way for a vibrant and prosperous future. The
resilience and determination of its people will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping this journey towards a brighter tomorrow.
Until the day when all people born in this country put their ethnicity to the background and call us all Srilankans, we cannot progress in our country. That is fundamental, though the ethnic leaders may disagree.
‘If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under’. Ronald Reagan
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