Although delayed due to the UNP's tardiness and also the deadly political ripples of LTTE bombs, the President still stands by the proposals. There is no doubt that as Mr. Dudley Senanayake said about himself, she too is ready to take the bludgeons blows for it, and would be happy to do so if it helps end the war and resolve the ethnic crisis, especially ensuring the equality of all. If not she would not have reiterated her commitment to these proposals in the recent provincial elections, especially in the Southern Province. The sad anniversary of Black July, even 16 years later, is a time for a political catharsis to bring about genuine reconciliation among the peoples of our country, the healing of differences and restoring the badly damaged bridges to unity among our peoples. The call of the people is for peace and reconciliation.
Statistics show that the majority favour a negotiated settlement.
The issue is before the political leaders of the country to show statesmanship in responding to the call of the people, and not beat the war drums of one's own political agenda. It has to be faced by the PA too. It is not something that even the JVP can escape. Let them all make a genuine pledge to ensure that there is nothing even remotely like the Black July of 1983 ever again, and work towards that vision becoming a reality. That is the biggest debt that today's political leaders owe to the next generation.