All political parties and leaders should refrain from extremes and aggression

ALTHOUGH it is not totally uncommon to other developing countries, Sri Lanka is extremely indulged in political and power struggles between political parties and political leaders.

- By Dr. Laksiri Fernando

This is also not uncommon to ordinary or even educated people. Perhaps that is one root cause of the whole scenario of political aggression, fighting and violence. Living in Switzerland (1984-1991) and in Australia (1991-1997 and 2011-today) I have seen even when Sri Lankans have a family party, men (not very many women) getting into a drinking circle and arguing about politics aggressively. Drinking can be one reason, but the political culture of the country, in my opinion, is the main reason.

Other reasons

It is strange that this political culture is remaining in a Buddhist country. Buddhism in its philosophical form advocates, peace, harmony and nonviolence. But perhaps the Theravada variety in Sri Lanka with its strong dogmatism can be the reason for promoting arrogance and aggression. I have seen several Buddhist priests aggressively advocating their opinions in YouTube and other social media. Christian priests are the same, although little sober given their minority positions.

Dogmatism means the tendency to put forward some beliefs or principles as absolute truths, without considering the evidence or the opinions of others. This is exactly what is happening in Sri Lanka at present. Now, the Government and the Opposition are at loggerheads particularly on forming local government institutions. The Government needs to admit that although they won most of local government electorates, there is a warning from the people about their performances. Their voter base has dwindled. This is only within six months in the office. At the recent national elections in Australia in May, the Labour Party and Anthony Albanese as the leader won with an increased majority after three years in office from 2022. Australia is somewhat an example that Sri Lanka should follow in terms of democracy.