Vesting absolute power with a leader is dangerous : CBK

COLOMBO (News1st): Former president Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga has said it is dangerous to vest absolute power with one individual, amidst moves to bring in the 20th amendment for that purpose. "I hope he would realise the damage and the danger that he might inflict not only upon himself but the entire country, by bringing too much power onto him," Kumaratunga said in a video statement on Facebook. She pointed out that the country requires leaders who are knowledgeable about governance and possess management skills. "...they should have the skills to get the support of all through discussion," the former president stressed. Kumaratunga insisted that one individual does not require absolute power to lead a country. "...the people, especially the youth of the country must understand what would happen if there is no democracy in the country," the former president stated. She emphasised that the President, Prime Minister and ministers who were elected by the public, must work in line with the people's aspirations.