Democracy wanted

Democracy is often thought of as an abstract idea, but the incidents over the last few days have shown that it is also a living breathing concept that is embraced as the very foundation of Sri Lanka. Democracy is enacted through the Constitution, but people also expect it to permeate every level of governance, including political parties. 

A functioning democracy is the form of government that attempts to provide its citizens with the most freedom, through a balance of power between the different branches of the Government. It may not be the most stable form of government and it is by far the most inclusive. 

Democracy gives the right to liberty, equality of opportunity, and safety. In a democracy, economic freedom is strongly linked to political freedom. The branches of government democracy are enshrined in political parties, State institutions, media, civil society organisations and many other elements that are part of larger society. 

One critical aspect of democracy is political parties. Sri Lanka has traditionally been a two-party democracy with both the United National Party (UNP) and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) taking turns to govern. Ironically, the post of Executive President was created by the UNP but Sri Lanka has had more SLFP leaders wielding its power as President than members from the UNP. 

In 2004, former President Chandrika Kumaratunga used Executive powers to remove the Prime Minister of that time and this was repeated a few days ago by President Sirisena. This is one example of what happens when democracy is undermined for political agendas. The consequences are deep and far reaching, often returning when least expected. 

Even though powers of State are wielded by politicians, democracy is not limited to them. 

US President Abraham Lincoln said: “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.” In this light, political parties must also be democratic for the people. Politicians who stand for democracy must lead from the front by ensuring that democracy is practiced within their own parties. It is only then that the Government will truly be democratic and reflect the views of the people. 

Sri Lanka’s two main political parties have unfortunately failed in this aspect. At different times, they have both promoted family interests and self-interests, much to the chagrin of the public, who have looked to them to put democracy at the heart of their party decisions. Given that political parties are part and parcel of the democratic machinery of Sri Lanka, it is impossible for moderate citizens who believe in following their conscience to not be conflicted with the current situation. Many believe implicitly that democracy must be upheld, but that effort is tempered by the realisation that it benefits a party and a leader that have not always stuck to democratic principles. 

Parliament must be convened to resolve the current constitutional crisis. There is no doubt that the power of parliament must be upheld. But, parallel to this effort, there must be a rising from politicians across both the main parties to demand for more pluralistic, inclusive and democratic internal structures that allow for citizens to have valid choices of representation. Democracy can only work if there are leaders who practice what they preach and work to earn the genuine respect of the people.