National Service is the need of the hour
Posted on April 9th, 2020
Dr sarath obeysekera
We have seen the yeoman services rendered by the armed forces in controlling corona spread with political backing where relevant measures are taken to prevent people from moving around by establishing control points
Many youngsters who have been employed and unemployed are staying in boarding houses, frustrated cursing the patients as well as authorities
Though some are trying to paint a picture of an authoritarian regime is going to be in place, the government and the president should continue using forces to enforce the rules.
We also note that the police force cannot handle the controlling part due to lack of manpower and trained commanders
It is high time that The President uses some remaining powers and start National Service in the country and mobilize the youngsters who are doing nothing at the moment
They can. not only help regular forces ad police to control corona spread but also distribute food items and collect agricultural products from villages
The government also commandeer trucks and buses which are idling and use them
If necessary, the Constitution may be suspended for a year to avoid delays in getting a parliament appointed and get the legislation approved
Let the world including the UN complain about it but they have enough in their plates to worry about
Just like I have proposed several times President can be called Benevolent Dictator.
Even after possible eradication of corona, we need a tough regime to put the country back on track
Otherwise various leftist and NGO elements may start demonstrating like those days
Let us do this
Dr Sarath Obeysekera
CEO Walkers Colombo Shipyard
Colombo
Sri Lanka