Those who oppose India are all calm when it comes to China ; We need leaders of a different caliber – CBK

Addressing the media at a ceremony marking the 33rd death anniversary of her late husband Vijaya Kumaratunga yesterday (16), the Former President Chandrika Bandaranaike said that trade unions and others who stood against the recent deal with India have not spilled a word when every national asset being allegedly handed over to China.

The collapsed plan to hand over a minority stake of the Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) to an Indian firm belonging to a notorious tycoon, was heavily opposed by trade unions, several political parties and religious groups.

“People who are shouting against the Indian deal, say nothing against China. When you look at their bank accounts, you have to think how these trade unionists have come up with millions over night”

Both her parents, former PMs S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike and Sirimawo Bandaranaike maintained healthy foreign relationships with other countries, following a non-aligned policy, she said.

“We did not bow to anyone. But those who run the government now need to have a proper understanding of foreign relations and good foreign policy. Some who are in power now asked ‘for what foreign relations are for?’ during Mahinda Rajapaksa’s tenure. We are nothing but a colony of China, unofficially.”

Chandrika Kumaratunga further stated that if the country is ever to make any progressive move, the people must change their attitudes and seek for leaders of a different caliber.

“This country cannot move forward in this situation. People must change first. The education system needs to be turned upside down to change the people. We need political leaders of a different caliber. Young educated people, who do not steal. They do not have to be from a wealthy families to do politics. They do not even have to be educated, we only need honest people who are willing to work for the country at their own expense and go home when the time comes.”

When asked if she will step forward to change the country for good, Chandrika Kumaratunga said,

“I take steps everyday. I do not know if it is to save the country but I have no intention of stepping back.”