Faraz Shauketaly here, and it’s time to ignite a spark. Sri Lanka’s at a crossroads, folks, and President AKD’s got a tough road ahead. People voted for change, and change they got – from one lot of politicians to another. But the real question is, has anything really changed?
We’re still stuck with a consumption-based economy, relying on imports and begging for foreign aid. Our state-owned banks are still doling out soft loans like they’re going out of style, with no risk committees to speak of. And don’t even get me started on the pension funds – it’s like they’re betting on a miracle. We aver that if the state banks declare provisions for the pension funds, the profitability of both these ‘mini-treasuries’ will evaporate rather quickly.
The President’s touted for being tough on corruption, but where’s the meat on the bone? A few high-profile cases here and there, but the real crooks are still breathing easy. And what’s the plan for transforming our economy? Tax the public to the hilt, and then what? We’re not even close to being self-sufficient in food production, and our forex reserves are dwindling faster than a politician’s promise.
But here’s the thing: we have the capacity to change this narrative. We have the talent, the resources, and the potential. What we need is a shift in mindset. We need to start producing, not just trading and consuming. We need to start making things, not just buying them. We need to take pride in saying “Made in Sri Lanka”.
Imagine it: Sri Lankan tea, spices, and textiles being sought after globally. Our local fruits and veggies filling the tables of Colombo’s finest restaurants. Our entrepreneurs creating innovative solutions for the world to see. This is the Sri Lanka we can build.
The President’s got a chance to be the leader of this revolution. To inspire a nation to take pride in its own produce, to support local industries, and to create a self-sufficient economy. But it won’t happen with just a few policy tweaks. It needs a cultural shift.
So, let’s start asking: what’s your Sri Lankan story? What’s the product or service you’re passionate about creating? Let’s celebrate our successes, big and small, and let’s hold our leaders accountable for creating an ecosystem that supports local production.
The writing’s on the wall, folks. We’re heading for another international repayment default, and what’s the play?
Plead climate impact and beg for write-offs? Cap in hand, ask the IMF for mercy? When will we learn that this isn’t sustainable?
We need a fundamental shift, not just a change of faces. The clock’s ticking, Mr. President. The people are watching. Don’t let them down. Let’s make Sri Lanka proud. Let’s make “Produced in Sri Lanka” a badge of honor.
Breaking News: The government says it’s working on a plan to boost exports and food production. We’ll believe it when we see it. But for now, the ball’s in their court.
Let’s keep pushing.
#MadeInSriLanka #ProudlyLankan (farazcolombo@gmail.com)
