REAL CHANGE IN SIGHT

For the first time, I have hope of real change – Otara Gunewardene

Q: How effective can people power be to instigate real change?

A: A majority of the time, we individually and collectively underestimate the power we have within us, and as a community. This power can be used for things that are destructive but also for immense change for the greater good.

We’re regularly manipulated and told how we should behave, think and act; and unfortunately, a lot of this isn’t for our good – it is mostly used to control us for the benefit of a few.

We seem to have decided to accept this way of living and being governed; and we remain in our comfort zones no matter what happens, carrying on with the status quo, and accommodating the worst of actions and situations.

However, I think we finally see that when things affect each and every one of us, we’ve awakened as a collective. It’s no longer someone else’s problem.

Finally, we’re realising what so many others have experienced and wonder why we have done nothing about it. Great change for the good can be achieved with genuine people power. We see more unity, talent, dedication and love, for each other and the country today.

We have some way to go but I think we’re finally on the right path and moving towards a positive future.

Q: What is the importance of accountability, transparency and discipline going forward?

A: This is extremely important. From my experience of having started a small business and expanded it over the years, the most important factors are accountability, transparency and discipline.

You can’t expect a company to prosper if you don’t have discipline and transparency in every key area of the business, and the accountability of those who lead it.

Why should a country be any different? Why do we not expect this from our leaders and government?

Again, as responsible citizens, it is our duty to ensure this happens. Accepting anything less exposes a huge flaw in each of us and our own sense of accountability because we’re not separate from what happens around us.

Q: The importance of a culture of zero tolerance for corruption is…?

A: One might believe that zero corruption isn’t possible to achieve and maybe it is not, where a country is concerned; but it certainly has to be the absolute goal for us all.

I believe we can then achieve near zero corruption, and a fair and just society. It is extremely important that people are held accountable for any form of corruption and the law should apply equally to everyone.

Q: And what are your aspirations for Sri Lanka in a new era?

A: Things may seem to be in a mess; the economy is a disaster and there is immense suffering every day for many people. But for the first time, I have hope of real change.

A country is only as good as the level of consciousness of its people. When we accept corruption, we should know that there are many people who don’t care it exists or who condone it. The same goes for other issues like poor healthcare services, abuse of children and animals, and harassment of women.

When we want a country that is free of corruption, when we want conscientious leaders who are willing to serve the nation and not themselves, and when we want to live in a country in which we’re safe and genuinely happy for one another, everything will change for us – and for our country Sri Lanka.

I think we are on our way!