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| Sri Lanka election: Maithripala Sirisena elected president in surprise result - as it happened | |
| (5 months later) | |
| 10.50pm AEST11:50 | 10.50pm AEST11:50 |
| We are now closing this live blog charting Sri Lanka’s shock election result which ends a decade of rule by Mahinda Rajapaksa and sees the reins of presidential power being handed over to health minister Maithripala Sirisena. A full news article by our South Asia team can be read here. | We are now closing this live blog charting Sri Lanka’s shock election result which ends a decade of rule by Mahinda Rajapaksa and sees the reins of presidential power being handed over to health minister Maithripala Sirisena. A full news article by our South Asia team can be read here. |
| 10.43pm AEST11:43 | 10.43pm AEST11:43 |
| Any new president faces pitfalls and challenges. Indian news site, The Hindu, has drawn up a list of ten issues facing Sirisena here. Top of its must-do list; “restore the rule of law”. | Any new president faces pitfalls and challenges. Indian news site, The Hindu, has drawn up a list of ten issues facing Sirisena here. Top of its must-do list; “restore the rule of law”. |
| 10.02pm AEST11:02 | 10.02pm AEST11:02 |
| A fascinating piece on China stance on the election from newswire AFP. The Chinese foreign minister has welcomed Sirisena’s victory but Beijing has concerns that major economic projects could be delayed postponed, or even scrapped following the change in Sri Lanka’s leadership. Sirisena has reported to have made hostile remarks about Chinese investment following into the Island nation. | A fascinating piece on China stance on the election from newswire AFP. The Chinese foreign minister has welcomed Sirisena’s victory but Beijing has concerns that major economic projects could be delayed postponed, or even scrapped following the change in Sri Lanka’s leadership. Sirisena has reported to have made hostile remarks about Chinese investment following into the Island nation. |
| China on Friday downplayed the impact of Sri Lanka’s presidential election upset, dismissing suggestions that the stunning win by Maithripala Sirisena could shake up Beijing’s plans in the Indian Ocean. | China on Friday downplayed the impact of Sri Lanka’s presidential election upset, dismissing suggestions that the stunning win by Maithripala Sirisena could shake up Beijing’s plans in the Indian Ocean. |
| Sirisena on Thursday ousted longtime president Mahinda Rajapakse, who has relied heavily on Chinese funding for major infrastructure work in his island country. | Sirisena on Thursday ousted longtime president Mahinda Rajapakse, who has relied heavily on Chinese funding for major infrastructure work in his island country. |
| Among the major projects is Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka’s largest single foreign investment, which is under construction alongside an existing giant Chinese-built container terminal. | Among the major projects is Colombo Port City, Sri Lanka’s largest single foreign investment, which is under construction alongside an existing giant Chinese-built container terminal. |
| Beijing has been accused of seeking to develop facilities around the Indian Ocean in a “string of pearls” strategy to counter the rise of its Asian rival India and secure its own economic interests. | Beijing has been accused of seeking to develop facilities around the Indian Ocean in a “string of pearls” strategy to counter the rise of its Asian rival India and secure its own economic interests. |
| At a regular briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei congratulated Sirisena on his win and said that cooperation between the two countries “has been deepening”. | At a regular briefing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei congratulated Sirisena on his win and said that cooperation between the two countries “has been deepening”. |
| “Our friendship runs deep, and successive governments of Sri Lanka have had a friendship policy towards China,” Hong said, adding: “We have a good momentum there.” | “Our friendship runs deep, and successive governments of Sri Lanka have had a friendship policy towards China,” Hong said, adding: “We have a good momentum there.” |
| “We hope and we believe the new Sri Lankan government will carry on the friendly policies towards China and lend their support to relevant projects to make sure these projects are successful,” he added. | “We hope and we believe the new Sri Lankan government will carry on the friendly policies towards China and lend their support to relevant projects to make sure these projects are successful,” he added. |
| Sri Lanka is a midway point on one of the world’s busiest international shipping lanes, which Beijing wants to develop as a “maritime silk road” for the 21st Century. | Sri Lanka is a midway point on one of the world’s busiest international shipping lanes, which Beijing wants to develop as a “maritime silk road” for the 21st Century. |
| During a visit in September, Chinese President Xi Jinping launched construction of the $1.4 billion Colombo Port City, which will give Beijing a firmer foothold in the region. | During a visit in September, Chinese President Xi Jinping launched construction of the $1.4 billion Colombo Port City, which will give Beijing a firmer foothold in the region. |
| As part of the deal, China is set to gain ownership of one third of the total 233 hectares (583 acres) of reclaimed land that the new facility will occupy. | As part of the deal, China is set to gain ownership of one third of the total 233 hectares (583 acres) of reclaimed land that the new facility will occupy. |
| But the project has drawn strong criticism from Sri Lanka’s now-triumphant opposition, which last month accused China of destroying the island’s pristine beaches and warned Beijing its investment could be in jeopardy should they return to power. | But the project has drawn strong criticism from Sri Lanka’s now-triumphant opposition, which last month accused China of destroying the island’s pristine beaches and warned Beijing its investment could be in jeopardy should they return to power. |
| Opposition leader Ranil Wickremesinghe - who is expected to return to his former post as prime minister under the new government - has said his party would take a fresh look at “haphazard reclamation” of land near Colombo harbour for a new port city. | Opposition leader Ranil Wickremesinghe - who is expected to return to his former post as prime minister under the new government - has said his party would take a fresh look at “haphazard reclamation” of land near Colombo harbour for a new port city. |
| Hong maintained that China and Sri Lanka would “accommodate each other’s interests” and that progress would be based on consensus. | Hong maintained that China and Sri Lanka would “accommodate each other’s interests” and that progress would be based on consensus. |
| 9.54pm AEST10:54 | 9.54pm AEST10:54 |
| Summary | Summary |
| Here’s what we know so far about Sri Lanka’s surprise election verdict: | Here’s what we know so far about Sri Lanka’s surprise election verdict: |
| 8.26pm AEST09:26 | 8.26pm AEST09:26 |
| 8.20pm AEST09:20 | 8.20pm AEST09:20 |
| The first big official guest the new president is likely to welcome is the Pope who will arrive in the country on the 13th. Here is his official timetable as tweeted by the Vatican an hour ago. | The first big official guest the new president is likely to welcome is the Pope who will arrive in the country on the 13th. Here is his official timetable as tweeted by the Vatican an hour ago. |
| This is the finalized official schedule of the Apostolic Journey of Pope Francis to Sri Lanka 12-15 January pic.twitter.com/Lp2rF70Q2l | This is the finalized official schedule of the Apostolic Journey of Pope Francis to Sri Lanka 12-15 January pic.twitter.com/Lp2rF70Q2l |
| 8.17pm AEST09:17 | 8.17pm AEST09:17 |
| The UK based organisation, Sri Lanka Campaign for Peace and Justice, who raise awareness of alleged human rights crimes in the country, has issued a lengthy statement which warns of “a very real risk of reprisals against journalists, human rights activists, and Sirisena supporters” in light of the results. | The UK based organisation, Sri Lanka Campaign for Peace and Justice, who raise awareness of alleged human rights crimes in the country, has issued a lengthy statement which warns of “a very real risk of reprisals against journalists, human rights activists, and Sirisena supporters” in light of the results. |
| The statement, which can be read in full on their website also calls on the new president to deal with ongoing war crimes allegations. | The statement, which can be read in full on their website also calls on the new president to deal with ongoing war crimes allegations. |
| 7.45pm AEST08:45 | 7.45pm AEST08:45 |
| In a further sign of post election stability the current presidential press secretary Vijayananda Herath has told newswire AFP, that Rajapaksa’s main official residence had already been vacated to gesture his defeat. This follows his earlier quote in which he said, “The president concedes defeat and will ensure a smooth transition of power, bowing to the wishes of the people.” | In a further sign of post election stability the current presidential press secretary Vijayananda Herath has told newswire AFP, that Rajapaksa’s main official residence had already been vacated to gesture his defeat. This follows his earlier quote in which he said, “The president concedes defeat and will ensure a smooth transition of power, bowing to the wishes of the people.” |
| Updated at 8.22pm AEST | Updated at 8.22pm AEST |
| 7.29pm AEST08:29 | 7.29pm AEST08:29 |
| Following confirmation of Sirisena’s victory, here’s another chance to read Jason Burke’s profile of Sri Lanka’s new leader. Here’s a flavour: | Following confirmation of Sirisena’s victory, here’s another chance to read Jason Burke’s profile of Sri Lanka’s new leader. Here’s a flavour: |
| Sirisena is a canny political operator who has survived the tumultuous politics of the island nation for 25 years. His first taste of activism came in 1968 when, still a teenager, he joined an anti-government rally that was organised by a communist party and broken up by a police baton charge. Three years later he was jailed for 15 months for alleged involvement in an insurrection led by Marxists. | Sirisena is a canny political operator who has survived the tumultuous politics of the island nation for 25 years. His first taste of activism came in 1968 when, still a teenager, he joined an anti-government rally that was organised by a communist party and broken up by a police baton charge. Three years later he was jailed for 15 months for alleged involvement in an insurrection led by Marxists. |
| The son of a minor landowner, Sirisena first won a seat in parliament in 1989. He negotiated shifts of power as early political patrons were marginalised to hold positions as agriculture, health and defence minister. | The son of a minor landowner, Sirisena first won a seat in parliament in 1989. He negotiated shifts of power as early political patrons were marginalised to hold positions as agriculture, health and defence minister. |
| No one expected him to try and oust Rajapaksa. | No one expected him to try and oust Rajapaksa. |
| 7.06pm AEST08:06 | 7.06pm AEST08:06 |
| Maithripala Sirisena confirmed as new president | Maithripala Sirisena confirmed as new president |
| Sri Lanka’s election commissioner has confirmed that Maithripala Sirisena has been elected the country’s new president. | Sri Lanka’s election commissioner has confirmed that Maithripala Sirisena has been elected the country’s new president. |
| The commissioner has announced that Sirisena obtained 51.28% of the valid votes cast in Thursday’s election while Mahinda Rajapaksa got 47.58%. | The commissioner has announced that Sirisena obtained 51.28% of the valid votes cast in Thursday’s election while Mahinda Rajapaksa got 47.58%. |
| He will be sworn in as president later on Friday. | He will be sworn in as president later on Friday. |
| Updated at 7.08pm AEST | Updated at 7.08pm AEST |
| 6.50pm AEST07:50 | 6.50pm AEST07:50 |
| Amantha Perera, in Colombo for the Guardian, has been speaking to people about the election result. He captures a sense of anger over perceived corruption, disillusionment with Rajapaksa, and the hope that the new president will lead a more consultative administration. | Amantha Perera, in Colombo for the Guardian, has been speaking to people about the election result. He captures a sense of anger over perceived corruption, disillusionment with Rajapaksa, and the hope that the new president will lead a more consultative administration. |
| Fritz Fernandez, 52, lecturer at Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management | Fritz Fernandez, 52, lecturer at Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management |
| Good governance is the most important issue now. The common man should feel that rule of law applies to everyone across the board without any discrimination. I feel the main task for this new administration would be to assure people that they can trust in their government. President Rajapaksa’s lasting legacy would be how he let the respect that he had among Sri Lankans erode. | Good governance is the most important issue now. The common man should feel that rule of law applies to everyone across the board without any discrimination. I feel the main task for this new administration would be to assure people that they can trust in their government. President Rajapaksa’s lasting legacy would be how he let the respect that he had among Sri Lankans erode. |
| When so many started leaving the government, just as he called elections, I realised that the writing was on the wall for him. He was losing the common touch he had and the trust that was placed on him. Unfortunately he failed to see that.” | When so many started leaving the government, just as he called elections, I realised that the writing was on the wall for him. He was losing the common touch he had and the trust that was placed on him. Unfortunately he failed to see that.” |
| Nayanajith Thilakarathne, 38, auto spare-parts dealer | Nayanajith Thilakarathne, 38, auto spare-parts dealer |
| Rule of law, that is what this government really has to bring back. Everyone should be equally accountable. The second one is government corruption, this government has to make sure that commission making by government MP’s and officials is stopped and all those found guilty of such crimes are punished. A precedent should be set that the people voted to show that they do not tolerate such corruption. | Rule of law, that is what this government really has to bring back. Everyone should be equally accountable. The second one is government corruption, this government has to make sure that commission making by government MP’s and officials is stopped and all those found guilty of such crimes are punished. A precedent should be set that the people voted to show that they do not tolerate such corruption. |
| We should also have an integrated development plan, where the ordinary man benefits from development, like if they build a new road or a highway, the man in the street should get a direct benefit.” | We should also have an integrated development plan, where the ordinary man benefits from development, like if they build a new road or a highway, the man in the street should get a direct benefit.” |
| We should also not forget President Rajapaksa was beneficial to the country, especially during his first term. But his legacy would most probably would be how he ruined that reputation.” | We should also not forget President Rajapaksa was beneficial to the country, especially during his first term. But his legacy would most probably would be how he ruined that reputation.” |
| Selyna Peiris, attorney at law | Selyna Peiris, attorney at law |
| When I woke up today, the first thing I realised is the lack of fear, people were not scared to talk. I think the biggest expectations from this government would be whether they can stick to the 100 day plan they unveiled before the elections. The new administration should be one that is more consultative, as opposed to being dictatorial, which is what we had before today. The new government should move away from dictatorial policies and listen to the people more, not to intimidate the opposing voices, but listen to them. It should also reflect the divergent voices within coalition that backed Maithripala Sirisena. | When I woke up today, the first thing I realised is the lack of fear, people were not scared to talk. I think the biggest expectations from this government would be whether they can stick to the 100 day plan they unveiled before the elections. The new administration should be one that is more consultative, as opposed to being dictatorial, which is what we had before today. The new government should move away from dictatorial policies and listen to the people more, not to intimidate the opposing voices, but listen to them. It should also reflect the divergent voices within coalition that backed Maithripala Sirisena. |
| I also feel that the new government really has to make an effort to regain people’s trust in the judiciary, which has eroded at an alarming rate.” | I also feel that the new government really has to make an effort to regain people’s trust in the judiciary, which has eroded at an alarming rate.” |
| Rathnayake Mudiyanselaga Chandralatha, garment factory employee | Rathnayake Mudiyanselaga Chandralatha, garment factory employee |
| Everyone should be equal in law, no discriminations, no one is above the law. We expect this government to bring back good governance and rule of law. It should also be genuine to the people, on the promises Maithripala Sirisena made when he came forward. It should also establish the independent commissions on elections and police that have been long overdue. The commissions will go a long way in ridding this country of corruption and nepotism.” | Everyone should be equal in law, no discriminations, no one is above the law. We expect this government to bring back good governance and rule of law. It should also be genuine to the people, on the promises Maithripala Sirisena made when he came forward. It should also establish the independent commissions on elections and police that have been long overdue. The commissions will go a long way in ridding this country of corruption and nepotism.” |
| Updated at 10.54pm AEST | Updated at 10.54pm AEST |
| 6.37pm AEST07:37 | 6.37pm AEST07:37 |
| A reminder to readers waking up in the UK and elsewhere that in a shock result in Sri Lanka’s presidential election, President Mahinda Rajapaksa has conceded defeat to rival Maithripala Sirisena, a man who was once one of the president’s closest allies before defecting. | A reminder to readers waking up in the UK and elsewhere that in a shock result in Sri Lanka’s presidential election, President Mahinda Rajapaksa has conceded defeat to rival Maithripala Sirisena, a man who was once one of the president’s closest allies before defecting. |
| Here’s a picture of of some Sirisena’s supporters on the streets of Colombo. | Here’s a picture of of some Sirisena’s supporters on the streets of Colombo. |
| Updated at 6.41pm AEST | Updated at 6.41pm AEST |
| 5.42pm AEST06:42 | 5.42pm AEST06:42 |
| First pictures here of the new president - or rather president-elect. He won’t be sworn in for a few hours yet. It shows him in Colombo, leaving the opposition leader’s office after meeting with political leaders who supported him. | First pictures here of the new president - or rather president-elect. He won’t be sworn in for a few hours yet. It shows him in Colombo, leaving the opposition leader’s office after meeting with political leaders who supported him. |
| Updated at 6.15pm AEST | Updated at 6.15pm AEST |
| 4.58pm AEST05:58 | 4.58pm AEST05:58 |
| US secretary of state John Kerry is up early - or late. He’s released this statement: | US secretary of state John Kerry is up early - or late. He’s released this statement: |
| I commend President Rajapaksa for accepting the results of the election in the proud tradition of peaceful and orderly transfers of power in Sri Lanka. | I commend President Rajapaksa for accepting the results of the election in the proud tradition of peaceful and orderly transfers of power in Sri Lanka. |
| Updated at 6.19pm AEST | Updated at 6.19pm AEST |
| 4.48pm AEST05:48 | 4.48pm AEST05:48 |
| As we wait for the full results of the election some more on what Sirisena could be as a president. Bloomberg has pulled out some interesting quotes from his manifesto which reinforce the idea that he will not be a pushover for China and its business interest. | As we wait for the full results of the election some more on what Sirisena could be as a president. Bloomberg has pulled out some interesting quotes from his manifesto which reinforce the idea that he will not be a pushover for China and its business interest. |
| The article which is headlined ‘Why Sri Lanka’ s election matter for China’ quotes Sirisena as saying: | The article which is headlined ‘Why Sri Lanka’ s election matter for China’ quotes Sirisena as saying: |
| The land that the White Man took over by means of military strength is now being obtained by foreigners by paying ransom to a handful of persons. If this trend continues for another six years our country would become a colony and we would become slaves. | The land that the White Man took over by means of military strength is now being obtained by foreigners by paying ransom to a handful of persons. If this trend continues for another six years our country would become a colony and we would become slaves. |
| The article goes on to mention: | The article goes on to mention: |
| Chinese government lending to Sri Lanka increased 50-fold over the past decade to $490 million in 2012. | Chinese government lending to Sri Lanka increased 50-fold over the past decade to $490 million in 2012. |
| 4.40pm AEST05:40 | 4.40pm AEST05:40 |
| Jason Burke has just sent in a great profile of the president-elect Maithripala Sirisena. He calls him a canny operator who has been involved in Sri Lankan politics since he was a teenager. But it appears he is no friend of Rajapaksa who accused him of ‘stabbing him in the back’. That followed a dinner the two had together before Sirisena declared he would run against the then president. | Jason Burke has just sent in a great profile of the president-elect Maithripala Sirisena. He calls him a canny operator who has been involved in Sri Lankan politics since he was a teenager. But it appears he is no friend of Rajapaksa who accused him of ‘stabbing him in the back’. That followed a dinner the two had together before Sirisena declared he would run against the then president. |
| As the men tucked into a traditional Sri Lankan dinner of rice pancakes and curry, Sirisena gave no indication of what he was about to do: declare a candidacy that would unite the fragmented opposition in a high-risk gamble against entrenched and ruthless opponents. | As the men tucked into a traditional Sri Lankan dinner of rice pancakes and curry, Sirisena gave no indication of what he was about to do: declare a candidacy that would unite the fragmented opposition in a high-risk gamble against entrenched and ruthless opponents. |
| I felt sorry for [Rajapaksa] but could not stay anymore with a leader who had plundered the country, government and national wealth,” the president elect later said. | I felt sorry for [Rajapaksa] but could not stay anymore with a leader who had plundered the country, government and national wealth,” the president elect later said. |
| 4.33pm AEST05:33 | 4.33pm AEST05:33 |
| Nice picture here of some of those celebrations on the streets of Colombo: | Nice picture here of some of those celebrations on the streets of Colombo: |
| 4.11pm AEST05:11 | 4.11pm AEST05:11 |
| Amantha also mentions that the one question on many people’s lip will be what the new president will mean for international relations. Both India and China are important players with Sri Lanka. China has huge investments in the country. | Amantha also mentions that the one question on many people’s lip will be what the new president will mean for international relations. Both India and China are important players with Sri Lanka. China has huge investments in the country. |
| On that subject the Business Standard has given its verdict on the result, saying China stands to lose out. In this article Aditi Phadnis writes: | On that subject the Business Standard has given its verdict on the result, saying China stands to lose out. In this article Aditi Phadnis writes: |
| Sirisena has however announced he will scrap many of the contracts between Sri Lanka and China in the infrastructure sector including a new city proposed to be built on reclaimed land off Colombo that will amount to US$1.5bn and a casino project being promoted by an Australian company with an investment amounting to US$400m. | Sirisena has however announced he will scrap many of the contracts between Sri Lanka and China in the infrastructure sector including a new city proposed to be built on reclaimed land off Colombo that will amount to US$1.5bn and a casino project being promoted by an Australian company with an investment amounting to US$400m. |
| Updated at 4.36pm AEST | Updated at 4.36pm AEST |
| 3.53pm AEST04:53 | 3.53pm AEST04:53 |
| Amantha Perera is in Colombo for the Guardian and says the mood on the street is, for the moment, mixed. | Amantha Perera is in Colombo for the Guardian and says the mood on the street is, for the moment, mixed. |
| Right now people are trying to take stock of what’s going on. We have had some sporadic celebrations – not mass celebrations. People are trying to take stock of what is actually happening. | Right now people are trying to take stock of what’s going on. We have had some sporadic celebrations – not mass celebrations. People are trying to take stock of what is actually happening. |
| The official results are likely to be heard by noon. What we have heard is that the swearing-in ceremony could take place at 6pm. | The official results are likely to be heard by noon. What we have heard is that the swearing-in ceremony could take place at 6pm. |
| Updated at 4.36pm AEST | Updated at 4.36pm AEST |
| 3.31pm AEST04:31 | 3.31pm AEST04:31 |
| The Times of India has produced an interesting 10 Things You Should Know About the new president-elect. | The Times of India has produced an interesting 10 Things You Should Know About the new president-elect. |
| It includes the interesting line that he was jailed aged 20 on suspicion of leading a revolt against the then government. | It includes the interesting line that he was jailed aged 20 on suspicion of leading a revolt against the then government. |
| Updated at 4.37pm AEST | Updated at 4.37pm AEST |
| 3.01pm AEST04:01 | 3.01pm AEST04:01 |
| Counting continues in the Sri Lankan presidential poll (this election was only for president; challenger and all-but-confirmed president-elect Maithripala Sirisena has pledged to hold parliamentary elections within 100 days). | Counting continues in the Sri Lankan presidential poll (this election was only for president; challenger and all-but-confirmed president-elect Maithripala Sirisena has pledged to hold parliamentary elections within 100 days). |
| The latest figures have the challenger Sirisena a little over 400,000 votes in front, with about 52% of the vote. | The latest figures have the challenger Sirisena a little over 400,000 votes in front, with about 52% of the vote. |
| A senior government official and Rajapaksa ally told the Guardian’s south Asia correspondent Jason Burke: | A senior government official and Rajapaksa ally told the Guardian’s south Asia correspondent Jason Burke: |
| We don’t have any good news. It is all bad news. I think people need a change and this is democracy. | We don’t have any good news. It is all bad news. I think people need a change and this is democracy. |
| Read more from Jason Burke on the result here. | Read more from Jason Burke on the result here. |
| At 9AM , Maithripala Sirisena Lead by 417,219 votes http://t.co/Vayk2hBqGM pic.twitter.com/1qTcW9jW87 | At 9AM , Maithripala Sirisena Lead by 417,219 votes http://t.co/Vayk2hBqGM pic.twitter.com/1qTcW9jW87 |
| Updated at 4.42pm AEST | Updated at 4.42pm AEST |
| 2.51pm AEST03:51 | 2.51pm AEST03:51 |
| From one new leader to another: Narendra Modi, elected prime minister of India in May, has spoken with Sri Lanka’s president-elect Maithripala Sirisena and offered his congraulations. | From one new leader to another: Narendra Modi, elected prime minister of India in May, has spoken with Sri Lanka’s president-elect Maithripala Sirisena and offered his congraulations. |
| I spoke to Shri Maithripala Sirisena & congratulated him. I congratulate the people of Sri Lanka on the peaceful & democratic poll process. | I spoke to Shri Maithripala Sirisena & congratulated him. I congratulate the people of Sri Lanka on the peaceful & democratic poll process. |
| Updated at 4.40pm AEST | Updated at 4.40pm AEST |
| 2.31pm AEST03:31 | 2.31pm AEST03:31 |
| Thank You MAHINDA (Deshapriya)! #lka's Fearless Elections Commissioner For Making Peaceful Change Happen… #PresPollSL pic.twitter.com/E4Bw5xZizB | Thank You MAHINDA (Deshapriya)! #lka's Fearless Elections Commissioner For Making Peaceful Change Happen… #PresPollSL pic.twitter.com/E4Bw5xZizB |
| 2.26pm AEST03:26 | 2.26pm AEST03:26 |
| In a week when the often-high price of journalism has been made starkly apparent, it is timely to revisit this. | In a week when the often-high price of journalism has been made starkly apparent, it is timely to revisit this. |
| No other profession calls on its practitioners to lay down their lives for their art save the armed forces – and, in Sri Lanka, journalism. | No other profession calls on its practitioners to lay down their lives for their art save the armed forces – and, in Sri Lanka, journalism. |
| The Sunday Leader has been a controversial newspaper because we say it like we see it: whether it be a spade, a thief or a murderer, we call it by that name. | The Sunday Leader has been a controversial newspaper because we say it like we see it: whether it be a spade, a thief or a murderer, we call it by that name. |
| The free media serve as a mirror in which the public can see itself sans mascara and styling gel. From us you learn the state of your nation, and especially its management by the people you elected to give your children a better future. Sometimes the image you see in that mirror is not a pleasant one. But while you may grumble in the privacy of your armchair, the journalists who hold the mirror up to you do so publicly and at great risk to themselves. That is our calling, and we do not shirk it. | The free media serve as a mirror in which the public can see itself sans mascara and styling gel. From us you learn the state of your nation, and especially its management by the people you elected to give your children a better future. Sometimes the image you see in that mirror is not a pleasant one. But while you may grumble in the privacy of your armchair, the journalists who hold the mirror up to you do so publicly and at great risk to themselves. That is our calling, and we do not shirk it. |
| As editor of the Sunday Leader, Lasantha Wickrematunge was a fearless critic of president Rajapaksa. But curiously he was also a long-standing acquaintance of the man whom he so often publicly criticised. | As editor of the Sunday Leader, Lasantha Wickrematunge was a fearless critic of president Rajapaksa. But curiously he was also a long-standing acquaintance of the man whom he so often publicly criticised. |
| Wickrematunge was gunned down as he drove to work one morning in 2008. Nobody has ever been brought to justice for his murder. | Wickrematunge was gunned down as he drove to work one morning in 2008. Nobody has ever been brought to justice for his murder. |
| He wrote this editorial, with instructions it be published in the event of his death, days before he was assassinated. | He wrote this editorial, with instructions it be published in the event of his death, days before he was assassinated. |
| When finally I am killed, it will be the government that kills me. | When finally I am killed, it will be the government that kills me. |
| It is, perhaps, the finest and bravest piece of journalism of modern times. A truly extraordinary piece of writing, and a powerful reminder of the importance of free, fair and uncowed journalism. | It is, perhaps, the finest and bravest piece of journalism of modern times. A truly extraordinary piece of writing, and a powerful reminder of the importance of free, fair and uncowed journalism. |
| This correspondent, based in south Asia for three years, had a copy pinned to his office wall. | This correspondent, based in south Asia for three years, had a copy pinned to his office wall. |
| Updated at 4.42pm AEST | Updated at 4.42pm AEST |
| 2.09pm AEST03:09 | 2.09pm AEST03:09 |
| Sri Lanka’s president-elect Maithripala Sirisena | Sri Lanka’s president-elect Maithripala Sirisena |
| Updated at 4.43pm AEST | Updated at 4.43pm AEST |
| 1.48pm AEST02:48 | 1.48pm AEST02:48 |
| Maithripala Sirisena was one of president Rajapaksa’s closest allies, and one of the most powerful men in his government. His sudden defection in November, his candidacy for president and then his victory, were all stunning surprises. | Maithripala Sirisena was one of president Rajapaksa’s closest allies, and one of the most powerful men in his government. His sudden defection in November, his candidacy for president and then his victory, were all stunning surprises. |
| The BBC reported Sirisena told Rajapaksa of his defection and challenge shortly after they’d shared a meal of “hoppers” (rice pancakes) one night. | The BBC reported Sirisena told Rajapaksa of his defection and challenge shortly after they’d shared a meal of “hoppers” (rice pancakes) one night. |
| Rajapaksa said of his lieutenant-turned-rival: “[He] eats hoppers in the night and then stabs you in the back in the morning.” | Rajapaksa said of his lieutenant-turned-rival: “[He] eats hoppers in the night and then stabs you in the back in the morning.” |
| Sirisena later said he felt sorry for the president during the meal but he couldn’t remain with a leader ‘who had plundered the country, government and natural wealth’. | Sirisena later said he felt sorry for the president during the meal but he couldn’t remain with a leader ‘who had plundered the country, government and natural wealth’. |
| Updated at 4.47pm AEST | Updated at 4.47pm AEST |
| 1.42pm AEST02:42 | 1.42pm AEST02:42 |
| There’s pressure all around in Sri Lankan politics. | There’s pressure all around in Sri Lankan politics. |
| As president, Mahinda Rajapaksa relied heavily on his “royal astrologer” to choose auspicious dates and times for his political acts. As the New York Times reported, astrologer Sumanadasa Abeygunawardena said of the president’s early poll: “He has such auspicious time and so much power in his planetary position that he cannot be defeated in an election”. | As president, Mahinda Rajapaksa relied heavily on his “royal astrologer” to choose auspicious dates and times for his political acts. As the New York Times reported, astrologer Sumanadasa Abeygunawardena said of the president’s early poll: “He has such auspicious time and so much power in his planetary position that he cannot be defeated in an election”. |
| Updated at 4.46pm AEST | Updated at 4.46pm AEST |
| 1.31pm AEST02:31 | 1.31pm AEST02:31 |
| It is early in the morning in Colombo. As Sri Lanka wakes up to news of a new president, the Guardian’s south Asia correspondent Jason Burke says: | It is early in the morning in Colombo. As Sri Lanka wakes up to news of a new president, the Guardian’s south Asia correspondent Jason Burke says: |
| If seven weeks ago anyone had said Mahinda Rajapaksa would be conceding defeat and vacating presidential office in quite such an apparently docile fashion it would have seemed a very brave prediction indeed. No one expected a challenge, let alone a defeat. | If seven weeks ago anyone had said Mahinda Rajapaksa would be conceding defeat and vacating presidential office in quite such an apparently docile fashion it would have seemed a very brave prediction indeed. No one expected a challenge, let alone a defeat. |
| Rajapaksa had sought early polls. but this may have been an acknowledgement of his growing unpopularity more than a statement of strength. The wave of support from the Sinhala majority that bore him to power has ebbed as the benefits of economic growth have failed to reach the poor, especially in rural areas. Corruption and apparent nepotism played a role. | Rajapaksa had sought early polls. but this may have been an acknowledgement of his growing unpopularity more than a statement of strength. The wave of support from the Sinhala majority that bore him to power has ebbed as the benefits of economic growth have failed to reach the poor, especially in rural areas. Corruption and apparent nepotism played a role. |
| An adamant refusal to move on reconciliation with the Tamil minority and growing sectarian violence denied him votes among other constituencies. | An adamant refusal to move on reconciliation with the Tamil minority and growing sectarian violence denied him votes among other constituencies. |
| But Maithripala Sirisena, a surprise candidate and victor, marks only a break in terms of personality. He’s close to Rajapaksa ideologically and culturally, if much less flamboyant. And this alone may ease transition. | But Maithripala Sirisena, a surprise candidate and victor, marks only a break in terms of personality. He’s close to Rajapaksa ideologically and culturally, if much less flamboyant. And this alone may ease transition. |
| The Rajapaksa clan though are tenacious and effective politicians. They may be calculating that a tactical retreat is in order. There are parliamentary elections coming, the opposition alliance is ideologically hugely diverse and has nothing to hold it together beyond the aim of removing the incumbent. that’s now done. | The Rajapaksa clan though are tenacious and effective politicians. They may be calculating that a tactical retreat is in order. There are parliamentary elections coming, the opposition alliance is ideologically hugely diverse and has nothing to hold it together beyond the aim of removing the incumbent. that’s now done. |
| A prolonged period of political chaos would open the way for a Rajapaksa comeback in the mid, if not the short term. | A prolonged period of political chaos would open the way for a Rajapaksa comeback in the mid, if not the short term. |
| Updated at 4.45pm AEST | Updated at 4.45pm AEST |
| 1.24pm AEST02:24 | 1.24pm AEST02:24 |
| The reasons for Rajapaksa’s defeat will be analysed and intepreted in the days to come. | The reasons for Rajapaksa’s defeat will be analysed and intepreted in the days to come. |
| But shortly before the election the Economist offered a number of reasons why people were preparing to turn away from the leader who was once supremely popular. Rajapaksa remained confident of a victory, calling this election two years early. | But shortly before the election the Economist offered a number of reasons why people were preparing to turn away from the leader who was once supremely popular. Rajapaksa remained confident of a victory, calling this election two years early. |
| The magazine reported that although Rajapaksa had been popular for his role in ending Sri Lanka’s 26-year civil was, the victory was ruthless and bloody and he remained a divisive figure. | The magazine reported that although Rajapaksa had been popular for his role in ending Sri Lanka’s 26-year civil was, the victory was ruthless and bloody and he remained a divisive figure. |
| He has done little to contain the spread of an ugly strain of anti-Muslim prejudice. He has stacked the administration with his family (four brothers, a son and a nephew are important politicians). Corruption has worsened. Mr Rajapaksa has used his big parliamentary majority to undermine the independence of the judiciary and to tamper with the constitution—removing the two-term limit on presidential tenures, for example, strengthening an already overpowerful “executive presidency” and failing to do anything to afford Tamils the autonomy the constitution promises them. Probing journalists and social activists have lived in fear. | He has done little to contain the spread of an ugly strain of anti-Muslim prejudice. He has stacked the administration with his family (four brothers, a son and a nephew are important politicians). Corruption has worsened. Mr Rajapaksa has used his big parliamentary majority to undermine the independence of the judiciary and to tamper with the constitution—removing the two-term limit on presidential tenures, for example, strengthening an already overpowerful “executive presidency” and failing to do anything to afford Tamils the autonomy the constitution promises them. Probing journalists and social activists have lived in fear. |
| The Economist’s report is here. | The Economist’s report is here. |
| Updated at 4.47pm AEST | Updated at 4.47pm AEST |
| 1.20pm AEST02:20 | 1.20pm AEST02:20 |
| Rajapaksa, the longest-serving leader in South Asia, is known as the man who ended Sri Lanka’s brutal 26-year-civil war, in which an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people died. | Rajapaksa, the longest-serving leader in South Asia, is known as the man who ended Sri Lanka’s brutal 26-year-civil war, in which an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 people died. |
| But he was seeking an unprecedented third term as President (his government changed the constitution to allow it), and there was increasing resistance against what critics alleged was an increasingly authoritarian and dynastic rule. The President’s three brothers all held senior government posts, and his son, Namal, was being groomed as a successor. | But he was seeking an unprecedented third term as President (his government changed the constitution to allow it), and there was increasing resistance against what critics alleged was an increasingly authoritarian and dynastic rule. The President’s three brothers all held senior government posts, and his son, Namal, was being groomed as a successor. |
| Sri Lanka’s armed forces, ultimately under his command, were heavily criticised for alleged war crimes in the final months of the civil conflict. A United Nations report in 2011 found 40,000 civilians had been killed in the final months of fighting. | Sri Lanka’s armed forces, ultimately under his command, were heavily criticised for alleged war crimes in the final months of the civil conflict. A United Nations report in 2011 found 40,000 civilians had been killed in the final months of fighting. |
| And Rajapaksa was also criticised for failing to genuinely embrace Sri Lanka’s Tamil ethnic minority in the aftermath of the war which may have cost between 80,000 and 100,000 lives. | And Rajapaksa was also criticised for failing to genuinely embrace Sri Lanka’s Tamil ethnic minority in the aftermath of the war which may have cost between 80,000 and 100,000 lives. |
| Disaffection with democratic rollbacks - his government came into fierce conflict with the Supreme Court and other democratic institutions - and with a prolonged economic slump, also contributed to a rising unpopularity. | Disaffection with democratic rollbacks - his government came into fierce conflict with the Supreme Court and other democratic institutions - and with a prolonged economic slump, also contributed to a rising unpopularity. |
| 1.07pm AEST02:07 | 1.07pm AEST02:07 |
| The moment which Sri Lanka's President @PresRajapaksa concedes election defeat & leave from his residential #lka pic.twitter.com/BzKdalTFaQ | The moment which Sri Lanka's President @PresRajapaksa concedes election defeat & leave from his residential #lka pic.twitter.com/BzKdalTFaQ |
| 1.04pm AEST02:04 | 1.04pm AEST02:04 |
| Mahinda Rajapaksa has conceded defeat | Mahinda Rajapaksa has conceded defeat |
| In a stunning result in Sri Lanka’s presidential election, President Mahinda Rajapaksa has reportedly conceded defeat to rival Maithripala Sirisena, a man who was once one of the President’s closest allies before defecting. | In a stunning result in Sri Lanka’s presidential election, President Mahinda Rajapaksa has reportedly conceded defeat to rival Maithripala Sirisena, a man who was once one of the President’s closest allies before defecting. |
| The Guardian reports: | The Guardian reports: |
| Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa has conceded a shock defeat in the country’s presidential election. | Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa has conceded a shock defeat in the country’s presidential election. |
| Official sources said results announced so far had given opposition presidential candidate Maithripala Sirisena an unassailable lead. | Official sources said results announced so far had given opposition presidential candidate Maithripala Sirisena an unassailable lead. |
| Presidential press secretary Vijayananda Herath said that Rajapakse had conceded defeat to Ranil Wickremesinghe, who leads the opposition in parliament. | Presidential press secretary Vijayananda Herath said that Rajapakse had conceded defeat to Ranil Wickremesinghe, who leads the opposition in parliament. |
| “The president met with former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe this morning. The president concedes defeat and will ensure a smooth transition of power bowing to the wishes of the people,” Herath told AFP. | “The president met with former prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe this morning. The president concedes defeat and will ensure a smooth transition of power bowing to the wishes of the people,” Herath told AFP. |
| There was no immediate comment from Sirisena who was still at his private home in Polonnaruwa, 215km (134 miles) east of the capital Colombo. | There was no immediate comment from Sirisena who was still at his private home in Polonnaruwa, 215km (134 miles) east of the capital Colombo. |
| Updated at 4.47pm AEST | Updated at 4.47pm AEST |