The Sri Lankan independence movement is often remembered as a peaceful political struggle, with figures like D.R. Wijewardene, the founder of this newspaper group, playing a pivotal role. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the bravery of those who laid down their lives in battles against colonial powers. Their efforts bore fruit when Ceylon was granted independence as the Dominion of Ceylon on February 4, 1948. Rt. Hon. D.S. Senanayake, revered as the “Father of the Nation,” became the country’s first Prime Minister. Sri Lanka retained its Dominion status within the British Commonwealth for 24 years until May 22, 1972, when it became a republic and adopted the name “Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.”
Among the many heroes of the independence struggle, Weerahannadige Francisco Fernando, popularly known as Puran Appu, stands out as a symbol of courage and patriotism. His leadership in the Matale Rebellion of 1848 against British rule inspired generations, though the rebellion was brutally crushed. Captured alongside Gongalegoda Banda and Ven. Kudapola Thera, Puran Appu was executed by firing squad on August 8, 1848, and buried in Matale. Another notable figure is Wariyapola Sri Sumangala, a heroic Buddhist monk who boldly took down the Union Jack and raised the Lion Flag during the 1815 Convention that ceded control of the island to the British. During the 1818 rebellion, he removed the Sacred Tooth Relic from the Sri Dalada Maligawa and handed it to rebel leaders, an act for which he was later arrested and convicted of treason.
The struggle for independence also saw the bravery of figures like Madduma Bandara, a child hero who faced execution with unwavering courage, and countless others who gave their lives for the nation’s freedom. However, despite achieving political independence, Sri Lanka has struggled to attain economic independence. In 1948, Sri Lanka was ahead of most Asian nations, except Japan, in terms of development. Sadly, over the decades, many of these nations have surpassed Sri Lanka, leaving it as a developing country in the Global South. The situation worsened in mid-2022 when the country faced its most severe financial crisis, bringing progress to a standstill.
With the support of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and friendly nations like India and China, Sri Lanka has begun to recover, though the road to full economic stability remains challenging. On September 21 and November 14 of last year, the people of Sri Lanka elected a new leader and government, granting President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the National People’s Power (NPP) a two-thirds majority in Parliament. This decisive mandate allows the government to function independently and implement essential reforms without relying on other political parties for support.
For Sri Lanka to emerge as a strong nation in Asia and the world, its people must recognize that the government cannot achieve progress alone. Active public participation is crucial. The new administration, which has been in power for just four months, has already taken significant steps to eradicate corruption and malpractice, issues that have plagued the country for decades. Initiatives like “Clean Sri Lanka” aim to foster collective responsibility and progress. However, there is still much work to be done, and the people’s support is vital.
The struggle for economic independence is now the nation’s greatest challenge. By working honestly and diligently, every Sri Lankan, whether at home or abroad, can contribute to this effort. Together, we can transform Sri Lanka into a developed nation, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
As we celebrate 77 years of independence, let us remember the sacrifices of the past, reflect on the challenges of the present, and unite to build a prosperous and resilient Sri Lanka for the future.
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