Financial Times - Mahinda, Ranil can steer this country safely

The chamber, in the course of three statements issued during a week on the proposed national government, law and order and constitutional reforms, cautiously praised President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s initiative to form a national government, and said the two main leaders should could get together to develop and present to the LTTE proposals for a constitutional framework that will meet the aspirations of the great majority of the Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim and other ethnic groups of Sri Lanka.

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce last week said all ‘citizens of our country’ will be indebted to the political leaders including and in particular the President and the Leader of the Opposition – if theycame together to solve the national question.

The chamber also said it sent its proposals on Constitutional Reforms to the Ministry of Constitutional Affairs and National Integration. The recommendations were developed by a Committee, which included a team of expert lawyers and senior members of the CCC Committee chaired by Charitha P. De Silva, a past chairman. The document was prepared in response to the request from the government inviting public representation on the national question.

It also spoke of the provision of relief to thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and civilians caught in the crossfire and by the events following the escalation of hostilities in Sampur, Muttur and other areas.

“Whilst a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks are being pursued by the government and the southern polity, the humanitarian crisis should not be forgotten. This would require the assistance of military and government officials to clear, through checkpoints, vehicles carrying goods and relief workers to affected areas, without in any way compromising security. The support of the Peace Secretariat (SCOPP) and INGOs will be invaluable in this regard,” it said.

The chamber referred to the prevention of killings and abductions in non conflict areas of the country. The incidence of these crimes appear to have increased because they pass unresolved and, in some instances, are inadequately investigated, it said.

Speedy investigation and the conviction of those responsible will not only provide mental relief to the bereaved families but also act as a deterrent to those who now commit serious crimes with impunity, the chamber said.