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Sunday, 3 February 2002  
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'Turning point in our history'

Colombo Archbishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Nicholas Marcus Fernando in his Independence Day message says that let this year's independence be a turning point of our history to make us all think as Sri Lankans, sharing the fruits of a true democracy where liberty, equality and fraternity become a reality.

The Text:

Sixty days have gone by since we used our ballot power to elect our Representatives to Parliament. Since the announcement of the election results, there has been some kind of euphoria based on hopes for a better future. People are waiting with eager expectations.

First among the expectations is a negotiated peace in the country. Secondly an economic reform that will bring about a better standard of living for all, the poor and the middle class in particular. Thirdly a new political culture that will turn the tide towards free and fair elections without violence. The party in power has the onus of fulfilling the expectations of the people.

Negotiating for peace will bring in results only if it is a collective effort where every citizen is patient with the different views expressed and tries to understand the other's point of view. The government did the right thing in reciprocating the ceasefire declared by the LTTE. Most important is the unity among all political parties towards a negotiated settlement.

Our country's economic upliftment may demand much sacrifice initially from all segments of people. Government planning however, will have to take into account the time factor; and find ways and means of cushioning the weak segments or society in the interim period.

Finally before the next election come accompanied by violence, vote rigging and corruption, let the guardians of the people, put in place all those Commissions in an effective manner so that the new political culture can begin without delay.

Let this Independence commemoration of the year 2002, be a turning point in the history of our country to make us all think as Sri Lankans, sharing the fruits of a true democracy where liberty, equality and fraternity become a reality.

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