Jungle Telegraph

5thJuly 1998

Top secret

Top level changes are in the offing in one of the key sectors in the country. Those making it are tight lipped and say it's "top secret."

But insiders say a new set of top men will be at the forefront very soon.

For obvious reasons, Alia cannot say any more except that it would be a star studded attraction for victory, one that is long sought out-but yet not sure.

This is the story of...

Power comes from the barrel of a gun. That's a Chinese adage about political power.

This is also a story about power and politics. But this one is about Sri Lankans who do not want to be in the dark.

They have to depend on power from the national grid, both hydro power and gas turbines.

Although there is more light from the recent weeks, many are still in the dark about the omissions and commissions over a power deal.

Those who know about the existence of a thick file at the highest levels have, however, turned red.

They now whisper that more light should be thrown on the matter. But that's the million dollar question.

It was a googly

A top man in a de fence procurement conglomerate was in for a rude shock last week.

A sportsman by his own right, the man was to adjudicate at a cricket match and had an invitation from the sponsors.

When he arrived to do the job, one of them politely told him his services were not needed. They would go ahead without an adjudicator.

Angry about the shock treatment, the man demanded to know the reason for the insulting behaviour.

"There is nothing personal against you. Unfortunately, it's your company that has got into problems," was the reply.

The man is now consulting legal opinion. He wants to sue those who invited him to an insult.

Vote for...

Ever heard of a serv ice organisation calling for a vote on what to procure ?

It happened on April 27, 1996. Then Commander, Air Marshal Oliver Ranasinghe, as the official minute now says, "called a vote in favour or against purchasing the unpressurized Reims-Cessna F-406 " aircraft.

Seven voted in favour and two against. Surprisingly one abstained.

The abstainee found himself in trouble. The minute said "..the Commander stated that as the majority support the purchase of the Reims Cessna F-406 the same would be progressed and expressed his displeasure on those who could not make up their minds."

The Commander ordered an annotation in the personal file of the abstainee since his attitude was "detrimental to the service spirit."

Failing to vote for a procurement can cost promotions or lead to demotions !!

Special Assignment

Editorial/Opinion Contents