“As evidence of the Sri Lankan army’s mass killings mounts, President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s charm offensive is proving to be a futile exercise. It’s time the president and his younger brother Gotabhaya Rajapaksa stopped seeking solace in a deliberate state of denial and realised that they can no more cover up the horrendous crimes committed against innocents on their orders.
“Sri Lanka’s stand has the support of a handful of countries that do not have an enviable human rights record. Yet, there’s no way President Rajapaksa can escape the growing clamour for justice. The UN chief has so far not been vociferous but he will be forced to take a more decisive stand. The Americans, the British and others cannot elude their responsibility of taking a more decisive stand. India too may be forced to take a clearer stand. But with China there to rescue him, Rajapaksa may be feeling a bit comfortable.”
- Oman Tribune’s editorial Wednesday August 10. See the full text here. The Oman Tribune is described as the leading English newspaper for decision-makers and the international diplomatic corps in the country.
