by Dr. Tavisha Udupihille – Kandy

I was hoping for a new era in good governance after having been through an era where political supporters drove on the road like maniacs, causing danger to road users including themselves. This was even admitted by the ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa, who had discovered the same while driving incognito.

However, I was appalled by the behaviour of the supporters of newly elected President Maithripala Sirisena as well as the UNP politicians in Kandy today (Jan. 11).

They were driving on the right side of the road at breakneck speed, placing the lives of other road users as well as themselves at tremendous risk. They were flashing lights and waving other vehicles to move to the edge of the road, showing scant respect for the very concept of rule of law that most of us voted for.

This being in the second day of the presidency indicates a bad prognosis for the times ahead. No motorist would object to making way for the president or the prime minister in view of security issues.

However, we object to being treated in this manner by everyone who carries a political banner.

I would like to make a passionate appeal to Mr. Sirisena and Mr. Wickremesinghe to rein in these unsavoury elements within their folds if the rule of law is to be made meaningful. I would also appeal to police to act professionally and ensure that these law breakers are dealt with according to the law instead of turning a blind eye.

Is this not the reason why the former president was booted out?

Courtesy:The Island