Sri Lankan politics is currently undergoing significant transformation. Established political parties are in decline, with new parties forming and fresh faces entering the scene. Long-standing politicians are stepping aside, paving the way for new leadership. This shift is expected to intensify with the rise of new movements. Traditional parties will need to adapt, whether they like it or not, to survive in this changing landscape. As a result, many are embarking on this journey with renewed optimism.
It’s time for leaders who have demonstrated real action, rather than those who merely promise change. Instead of electing individuals who claim they will catch wrongdoers, it is better to support those who have already taken steps to combat corruption. The emergence of new political figures signals the beginning of a promising chapter in Sri Lankan politics, offering hope for a fresh start. After all, politics is not about granting personal character endorsements but about choosing those who can lead effectively.
One such new figure is Apsari Tillakaratne. Her name might sound familiar to many. How do you recall Apsari Tillakaratne? Perhaps you remember her from Sri Lanka’s triumph in the Asia Cup and her contributions to women’s cricket. Apsari is also the wife of former Sri Lankan cricketer Hashan Tillakaratne, but that’s not the reason for her recognition today. During Hashan’s tenure as the coach of the Sri Lanka women’s cricket team, Apsari took the initiative to scout new talent, even after her husband had left the role. She traveled across the country, from remote villages to urban areas, discovering and nurturing young cricketers.
Apsari is not someone who simply followed in her husband’s footsteps. She has proven her dedication to cricket and to uplifting young athletes, particularly from rural areas. Now, Apsari Tillakaratne is running for parliamentary elections. She is not just someone with ties to the sports world; she is a figure who has shown tangible results through her efforts. If we want new politicians to bring real change, we should elect individuals who have already demonstrated their capabilities. Apsari is such a person—she has worked hard and proven herself. It’s important to elect politicians not because of their family connections or friendships, but because of their merit and contributions.
Similarly, Dr. Chamal Sanjeeva is another name making waves in the political sphere. He is widely recognized for exposing the country’s issues with substandard and counterfeit medicine, particularly taking on the powerful “Keheliya” drug mafia. Despite lacking political backing or influence, Dr. Sanjeeva made significant strides in raising awareness about these problems. His courage in tackling these issues raises the question of what he could achieve with the support of real political power.
Parliament should be a place for those committed to catching criminals and stopping corruption. We have seen many who, instead of preventing theft, have enriched themselves. In contrast, individuals like Dr. Chamal Sanjeeva have fought against corruption and drug-related crime, even suing politicians involved in the drug mafia. His dedication to fighting these injustices has set him apart as someone who has shown real results.
As both Apsari Tillakaratne and Dr. Chamal Sanjeeva prepare to run for parliament, they offer a rare opportunity for voters to elect people with proven track records. These are not empty promises or grand boasts; they are individuals who have already demonstrated their commitment to positive change. While we do not make premature judgments, it’s clear that these candidates bring a sense of hope and potential. Let’s see how things unfold, but one thing is certain—building a better country requires thoughtful decision-making and electing leaders who have shown their worth through their actions.
