Sunday Times 2
Reflections of a politician with conscience
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Reviewed by S.R. Pathiravithana
The “Truth” is a vital ingredient of conscience. You can also make it a way of life. Truth cannot be defined as a perspective or a profound statement. Truth will always be stubbornly on its own, no matter what the final outcome is. So, stick by your conscience, and the truth will always be near.
These are some of the salient sentiments I dwell upon when I am with people of the calibre of my dear friend Bakeer. As for them, values and ethics stand firmer than other mundane factors.
I am honoured to have the privilege to have the opportunity to read the manuscripts of his latest book “Hardaya Shakshiya” (Conscience), which is a collection of 54 speeches which he made in parliament. This collection involves his second essay in parliament, which began in 2020 as a Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB) parliamentarian. His first stint in parliament was between 1989 and 2004, and it was with the United National Party (UNP).
The difference is that this collection does not belong to the run-of-the-mill day-to-day utterances which meander around parliament well and just blow away to the oblivion. I am sure a difference stands between the Hansard and them. Yet, some of it is expunged.
In the foreword for this insightful effort, former journalist and politician Dulles Alahapperuma explains his views in this manner.
A close explanation to it would read as, “One could learn how we could learn the hardest aspects of politics without being a slave to someone’s opinion or doctrine. Some have even sold their souls to be in line with a hierarchy, but how he (Imthiaz) managed to hold his head high in the midst is very inspiring.
He made his maiden speech after 16 years now as an SJB member of parliament on 10 September 2020 during the height of the Covid-19 epidemic, and he was dealing with the plight of the Lankan overseas employees who once were one of the main revenue earners for the national economy and were in a sorrowful state without being able to return home. He made this plea from the opposition well. It was a powerful eye-opener.
The topics he spoke about came in different tones and under different subjects.
One interesting speech was on the then-proposed 20th Amendment, and it was directed at the incumbent Minister of Justice on the challenges to our democracy with quotes from the Dhammapada, the Holy Quran and Sinhala poet S. Mahinda.
Not only the burning issues, Imthiaz also spoke on parliamentary personalities like Thondaman and W.J.M. Lokubandara, to name a few.
In addition, the writer also delves into subjects ranging from the plight of prisons and the archaic prison laws to the plight of the Palestinian people and the despicable state of affairs in the Gaza Strip. In short, it contains an array of subjects that gives an insight into a person who is beyond mundane politics and gives the reader the opportunity of what could be and should be.
Hardaya Shakshiya, a compelling work by Imthiyaz, invites readers on an inspiring journey, launching its first edition on June 25, 2025. With striking cover art by the talented Lalith Senanayake and expertly crafted graphics by Duminda Kumara Kasturiratne, this book beautifully captures the essence of its message. Printed with care by Neo Graphic (Pvt) Limited, this edition promises to be a valuable addition to any collection. Don’t miss your chance to engage with this influential publication from Bhuddi Prakashayo, your gateway to thought-provoking insights and profound reflections.