Bowles is here to see first hand the impact the Tsunami has had on peoples lives and to assess how the global humanitarian community has responded to the unprecedented natural disaster.

Speaking to a selected media group yesterday Bowles said “ I must admit that there were many shortcomings of the way it has been handled by the international organizations. It is not perfect so far. But, I want to see if we could make it better and to work with all non governmental organizations and governments in Tsunami affected countries. I must admit that there has been a humanitarian traffic jam so far. It is my duty to brief President Clinton on this matter. He will summon all non governmental organizations for a meeting in New York and also when he arrives here in eight weeks time he will speak to them.”

Bowles admitted that local expertise must be used at all times, build the capacities of local people, help local economy to develop at times like this. Bowles also stressed the importance of harnessing local talent. He said it was the message he would convey to Bill Clinton on his return. Speaking on the role of Bill Clinton, UN Special Envoy for Tsunami Recovery, Bowles said “ Clinton will only carry out Tsunami related work in Sri Lanka. He will have nothing to do with the peace process.” When questioned if Clinton would visit the North/East of Lanka, Bowles said “ We want to go where we could be helpful and to Tsunami affected areas. We don’t want to court controversy.”

Bowles who was Clintons Chief of Staff was appointed by Clinton to be his deputy for Tsunami related work. Clinton described Bowles as a man who has the right combination of mind and heart for the job. Published: Tue Mar 22 12:59:25 EST 2005

Though Mr. Weerawansa did not seem to be satisfied, the Speaker said that there is no way that standing orders could be circumvented on this matter -- even though the ‘’entire house would of course be unanimous in wishing Mr Muralitharan well’’.

Mutthiah Muralithran however did come in for some flak recently when he was accused in one publication of ‘’batting for the other side’’ ie: working with the Tigers with regard to tsunami relief in Tiger controlled areas. But Muralitharan vehemently denied the allegations and said that has worked only in the interests of the victims and had not been involved in advancing any political agenda.

Muiralitharan was married yesterday at a five hour ceremony attended by 2000 guests in Chennai in India. It is moot why Wimal Weerawansa went out of his way to read a statement in parliament congratulating the champion controversial spin bowler, who is narrowly behind Australian Shane Warne as the highest wicket taker in test cricket ever. Published: Tue Mar 22 08:40:47 EST 2005