By Nalinda Indatissa – President Counsel
Over the past days, our nation has faced a difficult and heartbreaking challenge. The cyclone that struck our island left behind destruction, loss, and deep sorrow. Yet, as always, the strength of the Sri Lankan people has shone through. Our citizens, our first responders, our neighbours, and our international friends all came together with compassion and courage.
Today, as we begin the journey of rebuilding, we are reminded of an important lesson from our past. After the 2004 tsunami, Sri Lanka received unprecedented global support. But we must honestly admit that shortcomings in management and coordination reduced the full benefit that our people could have received. This time, we must not repeat those mistakes.
This disaster gives us an opportunity—not only to repair what was damaged, but to rebuild stronger systems, stronger partnerships, and stronger trust.
We must use this moment to show the world that Sri Lanka is capable of managing aid with the highest levels of transparency, efficiency, and accountability. Every rupee, every dollar, and every donation must reach the people who truly need it. Aid must not be slowed by bureaucracy. Help must not be diverted. Trust must not be broken.
Let me also recognise with deep gratitude the neighbouring nations who rushed to our help within hours of the cyclone. Their ships, aircraft, and relief teams arrived even before the winds had settled. In moments of crisis, true friendship becomes visible. Sri Lanka will never forget this.
But this assistance is more than emergency support. If we manage it well, it can become a foundation for long-term economic recovery. By acting transparently, by coordinating openly with our partners, and by ensuring that every project is monitored and audited, we can rebuild our economy with renewed strength. Effective management of aid can also open new doors—doors to trade, investment, technology, and regional cooperation.
This is not only a moment of rebuilding. It is a moment of rethinking. A moment to reform. A moment to show the world the integrity and discipline of our institutions.
Let us transform this tragedy into a turning point.
Let us build a Sri Lanka that stands not on charity, but on confidence.
A Sri Lanka respected for its honesty, its efficiency, and its resilience.
Together, with unity and determination, we can rise—not just from the cyclone, but from the challenges that have held us back for too long. The path ahead is difficult, but with transparency, good governance, and trusted partnerships, a stronger Sri Lanka is not only possible—it is within our reach.
