Let us celebrate Independence Day

On Monday February 4, we will be celebrating the 71st Independence Day all over the country with flag-hoisting ceremonies, dances, parties and cultural performances.

A great military parade will also be performed. In recent years it showcased the power of army, navy, air force and the police and their commitment, bravery, national unity and determination to achieve peace is recollected in the minds of the Sri Lankan people.

On this Independence day we must try to find answers to the following questions:

Are we really free today or after 71 years of Independence are we still slaves of western companies? Have we got economic freedom? Are there countries unnecessarily interfering with our internal matters?

Are there NGOS interfering with our internal matters?

Are we together or divided?

Are we all equal before Law Enforcing Authorities?

Is there discrimination on the basis of religion, race, ethnicity or language?

are the people suffering from extreme poverty have freedom?

These are some important things we have to think and do the needful. Today we are living freely because many sacrificed their lives for the sake of our country. Side by side we must stand together building, strong and stable communities throughout our land while we salute the brave men who sacrificed their lives for our country, we honour and thank those who are serving now to protect our freedom.

On this Independence Day, let us take a pledge to protect the peace and unity of our nation. D. WEERATUNGA NUGEGODA

A great military parade will also be performed. In recent years it showcased the power of army, navy, air force and the police and their commitment, bravery, national unity and determination to achieve peace is recollected in the minds of the Sri Lankan people