Once asked how people could preserve their liberties, Solon replied:“Those who are uninjured by an arbitrary act must be taught to feel as much indignation at it as those who are injured.”
A principle which any proposed organisation to safeguard civil liberties and democratic rights would do well always to remember. An impartial and independent body dedicated to the very laudable objectives proclaimed by its sponsors is a vital necessity.
Bitter truth is all politicians since independence have always found this principle to be difficult one to strike a balance; it still remain as one never to be followed by rulers in Sri Lanka. Not surprisingly, the rulers of the country lost their way in the process and the once paradise is today in ruins!
Northern Breeze 