By Laksiri Fernando –
Dr. Laksiri Fernando
Nominations for the premature presidential elections closed three days back and less than a month is left for the decisive decision on 8 January 2015. The competition is polarized between two candidates and the result will be crucial for the future of the country. This is perhaps the most significant election ever held in this island nation since the introduction of adult universal franchise in 1931.
To put it mildly, the result will decide whether the country would continue in the direction of ‘constitutional dictatorship’ or whether it would open up a ‘widow of opportunity’ to halt the democratic deterioration and reinstate democracy. No one can expect miracles and it is up to all actors in the political arena to utilize the available opportunities for the betterment of the country and the people. The reinstatement of democracy is important to all communities and individuals, irrespective of ethnicity, language, religion, gender or any other distinction.
The common opposition candidate, Maithripala Sirisena, has put forward a promising platform for democratic rejuvenation in consultation with the UNP and many other political parties in the opposition, and the main policy formulations are reflected in the MOUs so far signed between them. This process itself is democratic and transparent (and there are no hidden agendas or conspiracies!).
TNA and JVP
There are however certain political parties/groups in the opposition who have not yet come into this process, at least directly, and two of the most important parties are the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) and the JVP.
In respect of the JVP, although their position is still ambiguous, they have not fielded their own candidate and stated that defeating the incumbent President is crucially important although they are reluctant to give ‘character certificates’ to anyone in the opposition given their past bitter experiences. The ‘character certificate matter’ is understandable from the point view of both the JVP and the TNA. The JVP leaders have come on common platforms, however, to call for the abolition of the executive presidential system while conducting their own propaganda campaigns on that and other issues. This is not the case of the TNA so far.
The active support of the TNA is decisive for the opposition candidate to win more than the JVP. The JVP’s national vote bank at present could be considered around 200,000 and in contrast, the TNA could motivate over 600,000 voters to cast their votes to whoever they decide to support, if ample lead time is allowed to canvass and explain that position to the voters. Any undue delay might hinder the process.
On the 2nd of December, although the TNA parliamentarian M. A. Sumanthiran was supposed to speak at a common opposition rally at Hyde Park, he withdrew at the last moment, expressing that the TNA has not yet taken a decision on the presidential elections. His withdrawal also interpreted as a tactical gesture to avoid criticisms from the government circles that the opposition candidate, Maithripala Sirisena, is in alliance with the LTTE proxies etc.
If this is the case, I have major reservations on the tactic or the strategy, as Sri Lanka cannot afford to have ‘hide and seek’ politics any longer and the people should not be deceived whatever the (minor) repercussions at the electoral front. There is no doubt that the main campaign plank of the government is about national security and against making any concessions to the Tamils and other minority communities.
This is the very reason why the opposition should have taken a clear principled position openly on the Tamil national question and tried its best to educate the majority community, of course in a cautious and a prudent manner. I would not consider this is such a difficult task given the fact that the war is over and any resurrection of separatist politics is unthinkable in the foreseeable future. All the present inhibitions or reservations on the matter are in the subjective or the metaphysical sphere. It is true that in politics, unscrupulous leaders try to thrive on misinformation and scaremongering. However, people’s common sense knowledge might be far better than the distorted perceptions of the ‘rulers’ or their henchmen.
The Dilemma
The issue that I am raising in this article is already, but differently, raised by Dr S. I. Keethaponcalan in respect of the TNA in his “Presidential Election and the Tamil Dilemma,” among other matters. He has stated:
“In theory, the TNA can decide not to formally endorse Sirisena and as stated in the news report, agree to extend its support informally or indirectly. This could happen if the agreement between Sirisena and the JHU contains any real or perceived anti-minority or anti-devolution provisions. Such a situation could also be illustrated as a setback for Sirisena because given the possible Tamil apathy towards the election, getting Tamil people to go to the polling booth and vote might need some serious encouragement. The TNA will be able to do that.”
It should be noted that the first part of his article was to outline that Sirisena in contrast to Ranil Wickremasinghe is largely an unknown person among the Tamil community and his credentials on minority issues are also unknown. It is in that context that he stated “given the possible Tamil apathy towards the election, getting Tamil people to go to the polling booth and vote might need some serious encouragement.”
While the above comment was aiming at the TNA, he has also stated that “Sirisena cannot take Tamil votes for granted or assume that the Tamils will vote for him automatically.” It may appear that Keethaponcalan has written his article or stated his position only in respect of the elections or his apparent support for the common candidate. However, there is something more and that is my main point in this article. Let me raise it as a question or questions.
Could there be a MOU between the common candidate and the TNA? How far such a MOU would harm or help the chances of the winning prospects of Maithripala Sirisena?
It is obvious that any reluctance to have a MOU or any other formal understanding with the TNA is based on the premise that the TNA or the main stream Tamil community is a pariah section of the Sri Lankan society that anyone should not touch them even with a barge pole. This perception or position is not only harmful for future reconciliation but also is one of the main reasons why the Tamil militants are driven, over and over again, for separatism or exclusionism on their part.
The Other Side
The perception or the situation is not one sided, but mutual from both sides. Take the example of what the EPRLF (Suresh wing) leader, Suresh Premachandran, repeatedly says about the forthcoming presidential elections and the two main candidates. As reported by the Daily Mirror few days back (8 December 2014) he has stated again:
“There is no solution offered to the problems of the Tamil people. There is no plan to resettle displaced Tamils. It seems that the common candidate is endorsing the views of Sinhala extremist forces backing him. Let alone a political solution, there is no approach even to address day to day problems.”
From a conflict resolution or reconciliation point of view, it is completely erroneous on the part of the TNA or the mainstream Tamil community to wait for solutions from the Sinhala community or their leaders, without cooperating and/or mutually working together. That attitude, clearly expressed by Premachandran, is akin to militant trade union bargaining and perhaps derives from that ideology. That attitude perpetuates an employer-employee or, in this case, a ‘ruler-subject’ relationship.
The Tamil community or their representatives should be an active participant of the national political process without completely confining themselves to their own sphere or the North East. One step forward might be to utilize the opportunity available at the forthcoming presidential elections. It might be important to quote Dr Rajasingham Narendran when he commented on the issue of voting at the presidential elections by the Tamil community relevant to the subject that we are discussing here in this article. As he has said,
“We, the Tamils living in Sri Lanka have to vote in the Presidential elections as Sri Lankans and parliamentary elections as Tamil Sri Lankans. We have to vote as Tamils in the provincial council elections. This has to be the formula for Tamil Sri Lankans in the current circumstances.”
The Need
When there is a Common Candidate it is normal for various political parties or interest groups to come to an understanding with such a candidate or his/her main political organization. Even the JHU has come to such an understanding today. On the other hand, it is incumbent upon and the duty of such a candidate or his/her political party/group to seek an understanding with such an important community like the Tamils in Sri Lanka and its main political representatives. It is in this context that a MOU between the Common Candidate and the TNA is important. There should be an effort to break the divide between the two communities or the respective political parties.
It is not only in terms of votes that such an understanding is important. The common candidate and his United Front has promised that a future government under their leadership would be a national government and/or an all- party government at least for two years. While that is an admirable object what might be necessary is to take a first step. Sirisena-JHU MOU, as far as I am concerned, has not placed any obstacles for a Sirisena-TNA MOU. On the contrary, the leader of the JHU, Champika Ranawaka has very clearly encouraged such a MOU or an understanding.
It is obvious that such a MOU could not cover all the issues that the Tamil community might be facing. However, it could at least address the first step/s in breaking the ice between the two communities and their respective parties and declare very openly that the two parties agree to work mutually in finding solutions to the issues that the country and various communities are facing in the present juncture of politics. The present leaders of the UPFA and the President by using the TNA, the Tamil community and the Tamil Diaspora as scapegoats have proved time and again that they are not for any reasonable solution or reconciliation in the country. They want to tread in the war path even after the end of the war.
The election is only an opportunity. The two communities and even the Muslim community should discover mutual grounds by relating to each other irrespective of their differences. The reinstatement of democracy, rule of law, independence of the judiciary and good governance by abolishing at least the draconian powers of the executive presidential system is one such a mutual ground at the national level.
There may be various issues that relevant parties on both sides would like to include in such a MOU. However on my part, I could see the possibility of agreeing on at least four matters that I consider important for the Tamil community. (1) Full implementation of the LLRC recommendations (2) Unhindered funding and functioning of the Northern and the Eastern Provincial Councils (3) Termination of any forced colonization (4) Phased out withdrawal of the military from the Northern Province without hindrance to the security and territorial integrity of the country. It is understood that the resettlement, rehabilitation and development should continue.
[Note that this article did not touch the issue of the SLMC and thus the Muslim community in respect of a possible MOU, since the SLMC is still a part of the UPFA government.]
Anpu / December 11, 2014
Thanks Dr Fernando.
“Why Not A MoU With The TNA?” – because both UNP and SLFP would like to maintain the status quo with regards to Tamils, Muslims,….
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Ganda Koon / December 11, 2014
Thank you Einstein for the question.
Does the word “majority” ever comes in to your ordinary mind while you are babling about democracy?
That is the reason why not! Get it?
By introducing Taraki to Island journalism I learnt the bitter lesson that joint ventures with the Tamils can only end up in loss of life. That is another reason.
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Javi. / December 11, 2014
Buruva, Buro
“Do you still want to retain Sinhala/Buddhist origin myth based on bestiality, parricide and incestuous relation??
Gande koon passe nool lovely pool on your stool.
Kalu kollo democracy is not for paid mercenaries as they are not European to understand democracy in practice.
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Gamda Koon / December 11, 2014
Javi gandaya, are you white or European?
Both have no value in our advance Sinhala Buddhist culture. No.1 in the world.
Even Hitler admitted it.
Sorry about Taraki. May have touched a raw nerve!
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Javi. / December 11, 2014
Koon Poon you little fool,
Galle Matara Hambantota Gass Gembo are just ` un trozo de carne` (piece of meat) for Colamba Collo- punto fuerte (Finest)
When Suma spoke at Parliment on CJ matter you were silently cheering him all along Wernt you mopron.
I’ve a big Un, you know no koon piece of meat off bestiality breed Neede kalu pukka.
Go do the pippi before you utter one thinking you are some fun – invertebrate.
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Native Vedda / December 13, 2014
Ganda Koon
“Does the word “majority” ever comes in to your ordinary mind while you are babling about democracy?”
Does the undemocratic concept of “tyranny of the majority” come to your very tiny brain?
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Javi. / December 11, 2014
Dr Laksiri,
Your analysis in desperation is not only showing but trying to make other cultures cannon fodder is unacceptable – Sihala are 80% isn’t and if you cannot manage then be like a progressive Baharain- let the minorities rule over the land.
The reinstatement of democracy is important to all communities and individuals, irrespective of ethnicity, language, religion, gender or any other distinction.`
This is Madness of political bickering- power at any cost to the vermin even genocide can be ignored.
¬¬The active support of the TNA is decisive for the opposition candidate to win more than the JVP. The JVP’s national vote bank at present could be considered around 200,000 and in contrast, the TNA could motivate over 600,000 voters to cast their votes to whoever they decide to support, if ample lead time is allowed to canvass and explain that position to the voters. Any undue delay might hinder the process.¬¬
The TNA vote base and its policies are good for the Jaffnaman or woman and they have never influenced the Tamils of other areas. Both the Sihala in general and Jaffna Tamils have brought this stupidity of fascism into our midst.
The Tamils like any other would have sympathy for the effected JT’s but when they look around it’s the JT’s and radical Sihala war. Even well settled Indian Tamils NRI’s say- they must get atleast something which the begging bowl nation are unable to conceive. Sihala are not even European charity to see how others suffer neither are the JT’s.
From this article of yours I gather that in desperation of the majority 80% you would not mind holding a candle to make all Tamils Cannon Fodder- please use your head of who is fighting whom-0 you never did science to know – that medicine should address the cause (who what when) and not the sympton’s.)
You are an intelligent man- So let it be – haven’t you seen time and again from Independence Tamils have had the balls to challenge and make great speeches in parliament unlike ar*selickers and have been commended by all irrespective of their background- eg Chief Justice Issue; where were the sihala 80% hiding behind the saree potta.
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Ivor Biggun / December 12, 2014
There is no need for any MOU methinks…. the tamil voter is not a fool and should know how to place his ballot according to his or her conscience.
In other words, I would echo the words of that Swami in the UK who was asked for advice by the visiting TNA delegation, calmly said only two words: “summa iru”!!!
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Amarasiri / December 11, 2014
Dr. Laksiri Fernando –
First Things first.
Retire maRa,
How, TNA MoU is part of it.
What about the Common sense Phamplet to be distributed to the Populace? Did you contact the Common Opposition? JVP.
After all you are a writer.
So far Nothing.
Just do It. You can get the MaRa Buster Prize for writing.
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Davidson Panabokke / December 11, 2014
Do
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The Messenger / December 12, 2014
Dr. Laksri Fernando’s genuine thought in favour of the minorities should be appreciated but this is not the time to sign MOUs with the minorities. Right now, the Mahinda – Gota – BBS has created a wrong image about the minorities (Muslims & Tamils) among the majority Sinhala-Buddhists. Maithripala signing a MOU with the Sinhala-Buddhist party JHU was a very clever move to break the majority votes. In 2010, the TNA (so called LTTE proxy) openly supporting Sarath Fonseka was also one of the reason for his loss. Signing MOUs with the minorities will be a very foolish move.
This is not the time for the TNA and the Tamil Diaspora to give wrong or ambiguous message to the Tamils or misguide them. The only aim of the minorities should be to find out who is the most evil, Mahinda – Gota – BBS or Maithripala – Ranil – CBK and the best way to get rid of the worst evil. In 2010, the N&E Tamil voter turnout was very low but this time the TNA should make sure to persuade the Tamils so that there will be a maximum voter turnout in the N&E.
In the case of Muslims, the outcome is very clear. This time the Muslims are NOT going to listen to their political leaders. The Muslim congress decision is not required. Even if Hakeem or Badurdeen or Azwer or Mohamed Muzammil or anybody tell them to vote for Rajapakshe, they will not listen, the Muslim votes are ONLY for Maithripala. By creating the BBS, Mahinda & Gota have made a very big blunder. They will never get any Muslim votes.
However the Tamil votes are also very important, it can even be the deciding factor. This is not the time for the TNA and the Tamil Diaspora to talk about what Maithripala has to offer the Tamils. This is the right time to get rid of the non-negotiable dictator, the most evil Mahinda – Gota – BBS and bring the moderate Maithripala – Ranil – CBK. It is time for the Tamils to think and take a wise decision. .
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Thiru / December 11, 2014
Why Not A MoU With The TNA? Because the 66 year old political stunt of the Sinhalese political leaders continues:
It will never change without the bogey of Tamils, Muslims and others. That is the shortest cut to power. Just wait till the campaign heats up.
Ethnic, religious slur will lead to the winner.
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Donald J Gnanakone / December 11, 2014
Dr. Laksri Fernando,
You have been somewhat of a moderate Sinhalese writer, writing on various blogs, including this electronic rag for many years.
I hardly participate in commenting anymore. However, what you have suggested to the TNA is dangerous and suicidal for both parties if they even consider signing a MOU with the opposition, despite the fact that both sides main objective is to remove the Rajapakses from this unlimited power, and plundering the country like only Zimbabwe or Papa Doc Duvaliers.
The country is bankrupt if not for the 7 Billion dollars of inward remittances by the 4 diaspora and workers. Out of which the Tamils sent 3.5 Billion dollars in 2014. The total exports in 2013 was around 10 Billion dollars, where as the only cost of remittances from overseas is printing Sri Lankan rupees. The country’s foreign and domestic debt is mounting in Himalayan proportions.
What you forget is the country’s 74% Sinhalese is mostly Sinhalese Buddhist and chauvinist. There are also a majority racist, when it comes to providing basic rights to the Tamils in the country which is about 4 million out of the 22 million. Let me tell you and the other Sinhalese that their wishful thinking and hope for whatever the reason, the MOU is out of the question. It would be great only for the Rajapakses where all the Sinhala Buddhist, racist and chauvinist and Anti Christians, Anti Hindus will vote against the MOU.
The TNA nor the Tamil voters are quite intelligent and do not need any Sinhalese to advise them what to do and how to vote. This also applies to the majority of the Tamil diaspora. They have now been very politely advised not to write and give unsolicited advise to the Tamil parties including Mano Ganeshan’s DPF, and all the Tamil voters.
The Tamil voter strength in the North and East alone is about 1.2 Million, and other than the Douglas, Karuna. Pillaiyan, Traitor KP’s followers, the rest of them will vote their “Conscience”. They all know the difference between Evil and Good, and they are not stupid and will not vote for a bottle of arrack and a “Bauth Packet” on election day, or get duped by Rajapakses tricks and tactics.
The biggest hurdle in the North East is the threats, thuggery, intimidation, and harassment, as well the logistics to the Tamil voters. Since some voting booths are 30 KM’s from Tamil homes the election commissioner has promised CTB buses. However, the government and the armedforces/Police are notorious of sabotaging such efforts. So it will be incumbent on the TNA to provide logistical support in a timely fashion, to enable the Tamil voters to “Vote their Conscience”. The TNA machinery is in tact as they built it for the PC elections in the North and the East.
That is the most important need.
That is where the international community and some of the diaspora can help, instead of canvassing and lobbying the Tamil voters to boycott the Presidential elections.
By the way I am in Colombo and Jaffna and I am in touch with the ground situation. Please desist from giving advise to the Tamil political parties, and the Tamil voters.
As for reconciliation with the Sinhalese, we are all decades away. Forget and Forgive policy is non existent with the majority of the Tamils who are unable to speak out in this god forsaken country. However do not underestimate their silence. There cannot be any reconciliation before there is Justice, Truth, and Accountability. Equal rights and equal distribution of budget funds, and foreign aid is an absolute necessity. Then we can discuss reconciliation with the Sinhalese which undoubtedly will not be in our life time.
There are also substantial Tamil voters in all 9 provinces and Mano Ganeshan is leading the campaign in all the provinces quite openly. The Rajapakses cannot brand him as a Tiger.
After the Sinhala-Muslim riots, there won’t be even 2% of the Muslims voting for the Rajapakses. So please do not worry about them, but they too have logistical difficulties to go to the polling booth. This is even with Rauf Hakeem remaining in the government, the voters are quite independent.
In conclusion, there won’t be NO MOU, and TNA might or might not decide to recommend a candidate of their choice until next year. Or not at all and will leave that decision to the Tamil Conscience. That decision will also affect the Tamil voters in the other 7 provinces. However, The presidential candidate will visit the North and East after Christmas and ask or beg for the Tamil votes. Without which he will not become the President and the country and it’s people will be ruined for the next quarter of a century. All communities will be affected and the Sinhalese too would be part of the exodus leaving the country by any means.
The independent and credible international investigations for War Crimes, and Crimes Against Humanity will continue immaterial who the President of the country is. The US citizens and permanent residents will be in imminent danger as the knot is getting tighter and tighter daily. If only the Tamil diaspora file some legal action against the above category sooner than later in the US, which they all are very reluctant for the past 5 years. The US has full jurisdiction over the actions of their citizens and the IRS tax them all on global income as well as ill gotten wealth. (IRS is Inland Revenue Services who come under the Department of Treasury).
Bruce Fein, Francis Boyle and Karen Parker- Please copy)
Good Luck and Best Wishes.
Donald J Gnanakone
Tamils For Justice
Founder.
(Currently in Sri Lanka).
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Amarasiri / December 12, 2014
Donald J Gnanakone Tamils For Justice Founder. (Currently in Sri Lanka).
Can you buy some balloons and black and red paint.
Fill the balloons with the paint with a stone inside.
Give it to street kids or just anybody who can throw, and ask them to throw at the Illegal MaRa cutouts.
You have a good chance of reaching Heaven or Nirvana, for your Good works.
PS> Throw the balloons at the pore-Mara cutouts as well.
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Donald Gnanakone / December 17, 2014
Mr. Amarasiri,
I did follow your instructions.
By Saturday the Rajapakse brothers ordered me to leave the country immediately despite the protest of the US embassy.
I left on Sunday night flight to a Maldives resort owned by friends of mine, as I refused to meet the 10 immigration and Police officers on Saturday night who also came with 3 white vans. They visited several houses of my friends and family and scared the hell out of the neighborhoods of Colombo 6, Colombo 7 and Battaramulla.
They also made false allegations that I met Tamil Digamparam at JAIC Hilton Room 2106 which was a malicious lie. When I challenged them to check the security cameras video tapes they backed off confessing the orders came from higher authorities of the MOD which is run by the 2 Rajapakse brothers.
Check GTV TV in Tamil.
The Rajapakse Brothers are running scared and like snakes bite and acting in panic/fear. The GOSL do not want the Taamil to visit Colombo and influence the Tamil voters. Tamils should defy the Rajapakse dictaors who are also corrupt and war criminals and canvass their friends and rellatives to vote.
Subhaharan from Mesalai and others were like “puppets” on a string dancing to the controller of immigration M N Ranasinghe who another coward barking instructions every 10 minutes to his officers to get me to leave the country.
They all acted professionally and with respect despite whatever instructions they had got. They tried their best to prevent me meeting the embassy officials and talk to them. They failed miserably.
I have promised them o be back on Januaary 9th. I intend to keep that promise and all those who hate dictators, murderers, rapist and war criminals be rest assured that we all have the backing of USA, EU, UK, India, Canada and Japan.
TNA will announce their choice of candidate on the 26th and they will campaign for that candidate all Island wide without fear
It is time for change.
Donald Gnanakone
Tamils For Justice
Founder.
From Alidhoo Resorts – Maldives.
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Taraki / December 11, 2014
Why Not A MoU With The TNA?
Because the Tamils bite the hands that feed them
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Native Vedda / December 12, 2014
Taraki
“Because the Tamils bite the hands that feed them”
Do the Tamils bite their own hands that feed them? Its a strange practice.
In your case you chop the hands that feed you.
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Taraki / December 12, 2014
Tamil Vedda, throughout the war the North and East were supplied with food and electricity. The Government even paid the salaries of school teachers under LTTE control.
Is it any wonder that Tamil moaning is ignored? Only foolish Western politicians who fall for their lying.
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Native Vedda / December 13, 2014
Taraki
“Tamil Vedda, throughout the war the North and East were supplied with food and electricity. The Government even paid the salaries of school teachers under LTTE control.”
The rotten state and the government supplied food not out of goodness of their heart both were scared sh*t of possible Hindian intervention on humanitarian ground.
I know sach, nuisance and yourself share the same script writer, to tell you the truth he/she is not doing a good job.
Please try again.
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Ranjan / December 11, 2014
Dear Sinhalese quick question when Tamils were massacred the majority including the very members of opposition rallied around current Mahinda, having done that you need to justify as to why Tamils should support the opposition?
Also corruption and good governance are not major issues for Tamils because history has proven no matter who governs it will never be a good governance to Tamils.
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Eusense / December 12, 2014
When did this Tamil massacre happen? Does it continue to happen?
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Ranjan / December 12, 2014
What incident do you want me to remind you? Shall I start back in 1956, no I will stick to the one in 2009. I am not bothered to explain it all just google it. Whatever said and done Mahinda needs to be in power for the beneficial of Tamils internationally. Even if that means the erosion of Sfi lankan economy.
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Native Vedda / December 13, 2014
Taraki
“Tamil Vedda, throughout the war the North and East were supplied with food and electricity. The Government even paid the salaries of school teachers under LTTE control.”
The rotten state and the government supplied food not out of goodness of their heart both were scared sh*t of possible Hindian intervention on humanitarian ground.
I know sach, nuisance and yourself share the same script writer, to tell you the truth he/she is not doing a good job.
Please try again.
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Native Vedda / December 13, 2014
Ranjan
Couldn’t you find an equal match to put across your points of view.
You are bullying this poor girl/woman/grandma/….. stop it.
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K.A Sumanasekera / December 11, 2014
Where is 13 A, let alone 13 A Plus….
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punchinilame / December 11, 2014
When one deals with MoU with TNA, past experience should prompt the
TNA to be aware of tearing of past pacts in favour of the Sinhala
radicals. Any understanding for the present has to be secretive as
between gentlemen which will garner the needed Votes. The elimination
of EP within 100 days and the National Govt. for 2 yrs. are all unsubstianted theories.
Any declaration about tamils votes at this stage by Sirisena will twist the minds of MR and cabal with early death and entail
physical harassment of tamils both in N & E using the Forces who
are primarily retained for this purpose?
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Puhul Dosi / December 12, 2014
>>Any declaration about tamils votes at this stage by Sirisena will twist the minds of MR and cabal with early death and entail physical harassment of tamils both in N & E using the Forces who are primarily retained for this purpose? <<
Oh, and let's not forget that the scoundrel who is the head of the white van brigade has been recently (28th November) made commander of the Northern Province, perhaps exactly to orchestrate such mayhem on the civilian population there…… that he was transferred from his consular position in Israel should add fuel to this fire of suspicion.
Heaven help us all……
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Thiru / December 11, 2014
Laksiri Fernando,
you must understand that if MS promises to solve the problem of Tamils Mahinda will do the needful to snatch the victory using the Mahanayakes, Bhikkus and the Sinhala supremacist thinkers.
Do you remember the march by JRJ to Kandy to derail a deal with Tamils?
Do you remember what happened to SWRD for his deal with Tamils?
The Buddhist hierarchy starting with the Mahanayakes, who deny that gross war crimes took place in Vanni, will jump up and down in protest.
The result will be enough to tilt the Sinhala votes in favor of the Tamil bashing candidate.
It has become part of the Sinhala Psyche to deny anything to Tamils.
Remember JRJ’s own words: “Really if I starve the Tamils out, the Sinhala people will be happy.”
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AnIndianTamil / December 11, 2014
Sir,
Good article. But as an outside observer, the following are my views:
1. Even if TNA doesn’t openly support Sirisena, the choice before the Tamils is clear Mahinda Vs Sirisena+Ranil+Chandrika. Any sane Tamil would naturally vote for the latter combination unless someone is blind to think of only Eelam, devoid of the practical realities of Sri Lanka.
2. The delayed support by TNA in this backdrop, only disarms Mahinda. He cannot go and campaign that Sirisena is a stooge of ltte or going by the usual terminology of Sinhala politicians, ‘the diaspora (tamils)’.
3. As a tamil interested in the welfare of the Sri Lankan Tamils and as a tamil who personally doesn’t have any hatred towards the average sinhala person, I personally feel and wish that the present dispensation goes away; the sooner, the better. Any other political party, any other family would be better for Tamils of Srilanka and also for India (going by the cash+other investments chinese have made in the present ruling family of Sri Lanka).
4. Mahinda is a mirror image of Prabhakaran. Probably that’s why he could ruthlessly defeat Prabhakaran. But Prabha brought untold miseries on Tamils by his adamant and unidirectional world view, despite producing impressing results in the initial 25 years of his career(!). Mahinda is also like that, he is also equally adamant in not giving away anything as he perceives that he is on a winning, upward curve. So, one day he will bring down Sri Lanka if he continues. Probably for an adamant Eelam supporter, Mahinda’s re-election could be sweet news. Sirisena, in all probability would save Mahinda as well as the Country. He would save Mahinda because I perceive that the international forces which are annoyed with Sri Lanka now could mellow down with a change in guard and might be less harsher on Mahinda in return for some amicable settlement to the ethnic issue.
Let’s see, I am keeping my fingers crossed and is anxiously waiting for January 8th(exit polls – btw, when will be the results declared?). What is bound to happen would happen!
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nimal fernando / December 11, 2014
The situation very well summarised.
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Another-Tamil / December 11, 2014
Indian Tamil, this is how Tamils in srilanka have been taken for a ride for past several years, and unfortunately this will continue regardless of whether Sirisena or Mahinda comes to power. This sort of expectation at best fits into dustbin.
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Javi. / December 11, 2014
Another.Tee,Jetty
Watching the JT groups kill each other initially gives us a good idea that the tamils find it hard to get together (more of the dog in the manger)
But you have one great asset and Suma just opened his mind to you because – JT’s are good at keeping a secret (remember why the Muslims were driven away)
Think for self than talk negative `we will get nothing`- work in the shadows and go for the best available like Suma then nobody blames you for screwing them.
BTW a Chinese wife is supposed to be the one person who is best at keeping a secret.
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Javi. / December 11, 2014
`and also for India (going by the cash+other investments chinese have made in the present ruling family of Sri Lanka). `
Chinese making investment over their is an internal matter. Modi Mooth Maro only aggravated the situation by insulting Xi and China in his first visit to Japan and continued to do so. The largest number of IT schools in Shangahi are run by South Indians (headed by Malaylee and Tamils) Why did modi take Ahamadabad as sister city when they only buy and sell?? Guju diaspora created Modi Mooth Maro. We know Guju more than you do even the Tamil Diaspora have an idea because they are retailer and the Ugandan Guju are the wholesalers. Jaffna Tamils dont want to know other asian languages so fear and dont want to appreciate strength in others- so the gun + judiciary concept they adopted of irish influence.
Below link- 2 big guns are north Indians origin(i know them quite well and wont speak much)
They have the garment order (from the west for long and none can match that) and most of that was surely funded by US AID.(in setting up in war torn zone)
http://www.adaderana.lk/news/non-tamil-minorities-playing-crucial-role-in-reviving-north-sri-lankas-economy
However, in their endeavour to say we are 2500 year culture (blatant lie as per DNA) from North India here they are. But why here when Vietnam is the hottest spot on earth for garments (like GPS they have 20% off no duty on imports by USA the largest buyer.
2 years approx. a simple tailor jaffna tamil refugee turned canadian national won canadas largest lottery jackpot (more than the big 2 above have invested in Jaffna Garments). He said I am going to learn Garments and run it in Canada- wise decision because export to west is clenched fisted policy.
Why not north because he can see the position of raj rajaratnam and visits by PM , Goota and the man in jail plus very recently a landowner from Canada was hacked to death in the east when he went to identify his land which was sold by the army to Cargills.
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nimal fernando / December 11, 2014
1. If we are able to overcome the filtering of objective truth through our Sinhala subjective truth, we have to admit that Prabhakaran was a better man than Mahinda. Whatever his faults were, he was a single minded person with a noble objective for his people. Mahinda is just an opportunistic cunning charlatan at the right place at the right time. It’s all play-acting. He cares for no one other than himself. He would never sacrifice his family the way Prabakaran did.
2. Although there are many people to claim credit for the defeat of the LTTE, the main factor that defeated the LTTE is time. Thirty years is a long time and the world changed. The condition in the North that gave birth to the Tamil-revolt in the 70s (also in the South that gave birth to the JVP revolts) were no longer there in the 2000s. Not that Sri Lanka had all of a sudden become a better place but the world opened up and gave hope to many people that they had a chance to go to a new country and start a better life. Most of the hopelessness felt in the North and the South in the 70s and 80s was ameliorated by ordinary people (not just the educated class) getting even a faint hope of migration. The sheer hopelessness was lessened by even a faint chance of escape; that one did not have to stay behind and cop it.
3. This a competition for the Sinhala/Buddhist vote, no one can overtly court the TNA; that’ll be suicide. Unfortunately at this juncture the Tamils have no option but to lie low and vote for the lesser of the two evils. Tamils should know which side will not systematically grab their lands and impose military rule. Once the present “patriotic” fervour dies down, hopefully they will have a chance to fight for their rights.
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Kiri Yakka / December 11, 2014
Laksiri,
Not sure how Maithripala is going to get Tamil votes by worshiping Banda – big mistake. He is adopting the typical Sinhalese view that – ” Demala Karadara Everai” (no more Tamil problem – it was a terrorist problem anyway).
I understand that any discussion with TNA will affect his credibility in the Sinhalese racist camp – but he needs to make his stand clear and demonstrate the tradeoffs that he is willing to make.
Or the TNA can take this stand. “Both candidates are Sinhalese racist – one is a dictator and the other is not” – now that is sell able but the jaffna man wont give a dam – because no Sinhalese leader ever gave a dam about Tamils anyway.
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Donald Gnanakone / December 17, 2014
You are wrong.
There are many leaders in the JOP and they will direcr Sirisena with good advise.
Sirisena is smart enough to understand that he cannot win against the most corrupt dictators in the world. He needs the 3 million minority votes Island wide and he will get it.
Wait until the 26th of December.
The combined forces are Ranil and the United UNP, Chandrika Bandaranayake, General Fonseka, Arjuna RanatSobitha Thero, Mano Ganeshan, and other Tamils.
Donald Gnanakone
Tamils For Justice.
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punchinilame / December 11, 2014
“btw, when will be the results declared?”…
Depends on the results!! Last occasion the EC & his wife went into hiding – only MR knows about it. This time as imagination goes, it
also depends on Gotas plan B – involving the Forces and his vanishing
to a place already assigned!!!!!!!!!
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justice / December 11, 2014
Tamils await the election manifesto of Maithripala sirisena, to decide about voting for him.
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Rationalist / December 11, 2014
Tamils are the Jews of Sri Lanka. They are like the Lost Tribe searching for a Homeland.
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Native Vedda / December 11, 2014
Rationalist
“Tamils are the Jews of Sri Lanka.”
Are they the modern day Shylocks of this world?
Would you like to invent a final solution for the remaining Tamils?
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Nass / December 11, 2014
MR in panic
Latest news tells us that a lot of buses from all over the country came to Anuradapura. Why because the popularity of Mahinda is going down! He wants to show that majority support him. He gethered a lots of people from many parts of country into Anuradapura.
All in public buses
All in CTB buses
Who money is this
Why MR uses public buses for his election
Why no body speak about this
This is really shame
MR is panicking that is why he does
Why buses from kandy
Mahiyangana
Kurunagala should come for election meeting in Anauradepura
It is evidence he is in panic
He uses government properties to win election
This will backfire now
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Dr. Rajasingham Narendran / December 11, 2014
Prof. Laksiri
I think theTNA should not be party to any agreement or bargain with any other political formation. It should only advice the Tamils to vote in the national interest,astray are part of Sri Lanka. However, they should mobilise all the Tamils to participate in the voting in large numbers,surpassing the record in the last NPC elections. This will also minimise vote rigging substantially.
MOU’s and agreements on Tamil concerns have proven counterproductive and futile in the past, and bound to be so in the future. Let the UPFA and the COMMON OPPOSITION campaign in the north, east,west, south and the hill country for Tamil votes and expound their policies. Let these parties let the Tamils know what they have to sell the Tamils and other minorities. This will be a new experiment for the Tamils, other minorities and this country,
I hope the TNA makes such a decision . Let the TNA not give the opportunity for another slogan like ‘ Dudlygey
badey, masala vadey’.
Dr.Rajasingham Narendran
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Abimanu / December 11, 2014
Laksri Fernando’s suggestion, doubtless in all his sincerity, genuine desire for reconciliation and transparency, that MOU between common candidate and TNA is entered into, is a sure recipe for a substantial number of Sinhalese voters to decide to vote for Mahinda Rajapakse.
The main campaign thrust of Mahinda Rajapakse’s bid for Presidency for an unprecedented and undeserving third term, manipulated by throttling the Constitution, is: (i) Though LTTE is defeated, it is still very active amongst the Tamil Diaspora and the TNA; (2) The International Community is in cohort with them to break the country; (3) He is the bulwark against this conspiracy and against the revival of the LTTE terrorism and the break-up of the country.
It is very cheap and desperate propaganda but still swallowed by a substantial section of the Sinhala masses and particularly in the deep South in the rural areas. The unthinking, selfish, and vision-less Tamil Diaspora and some members of the TNA, and for that mater even members of the so called educated ‘civil society’ amongst the Tamils by their words and deeds, their actions and antics, are feeding in to this paranoia and helping the Mahinda Rajapakse’s campaign.
The Tamils have only three choices in front of them: (i) Cast their votes to Mahinda (which a vast majority of them would not, except a very negligible and fast diminishing supporters of EPDP); (ii) Boycott without casting their votes to either of them, saying that it is a contest between the Sinhalese and have nothing to do with the Tamils (which would not only help Mahinda Rajapakse but would also confirm and accelerate the “irrelevance of the Tamils” in the wider body politic of Sri Lanka; or (3) Vote for Maithripala Srisena because the continuation of Executive Presidency with its corruption, nepotism, arrogance of power is bad for Sri Lanka as a whole and to Parliamentary democracy and democratic institutions, irrespective of any community.
Any MOU with TNA at this time would only contribute to the strengthening of this cheap and despicable campaign with Mahinda saying “I told you so”, and unfortunately turn the Sinhalese votes for him.
In any case, what is the understanding that TNA can come to in the MOU in terms of the political aspirations of the Tamils?– There is still talk about ‘self-determination’, (to be read as ‘separation’), North- East merger, and to help Mahinda Rajapakse’s campaign ( like Pirabaharan helping him to become the President the first time he contested) some, and especially those ‘self –appointed representatives’ of the Tamil Diaspora claiming that “the time for hauling him in the International Court of Justice for war crimes is not far”.
The list that Laksri have mentioned as can possibly be incorporated in the MOU would be dismissed as only “concessions” but not ‘rights” for the Tamils.
This Presidential election is political and moral challenge for the TNA. This is the best opportunity for the TNA and the Tamils to take a strong stand and declare that, to use the words in your article “the reinstatement of democracy is important to all communities and individuals, irrespective of ethnicity, language, religion, gender or any other distinction” and they are with the Sinhala masses on this. Moreover, this is also an important opportunity to re-establish the “relevance of Tamils” in the larger body politic of Sri Lanka.
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Ajith / December 11, 2014
Dr Laksri Fernando,
I don’t think there is a necessity for any MOU between TNA and the current opposition or ruling regime. Tamils had enough of agreements over the last six decades and every agreements have resulted in vein and we Tamils lost everything including lives,land,properties, and all freedoms. We don’t want any sort of agreement for election time bargaining.
This Presidential election is about electing a Sinhalese President to rule this country. The current President wants to extend his term with the same excecutive powers but the opposition wants to remove the executive system. The six decades of peace talks, all party conferences, agreements have proved that sinhalese leaders are not prepared to accept that tamils are equals to Sinhalese. All these agreements resulted in Tamils loosing all their rights what they have had before this nation become independence in 1948. They lost lives, wealth and rights. They are now reduced to nothing other than just an inert element. I don’t think any MOU with opposition will guarantee that it will happen. As long as the power of granting something to Tamils is in the hands of Sinhalese, Tamils are not going to get anything what they want until Sinhalese people truly and honestly realise that Tamils are part of this island and they have equal rights as we have and justice have not been done to Tamils.
In my opinion, Tamils have suffered hughly during the period of President Rajapakse. They also feel that President Rajapakse has cheated them and intentionally massacred thousands of innocent brothers and sisters. They also believe that Mahinda is a racist and responsible for the abduction and disappearance of their loved once. They also see that militarisation of North and East and they are not safe under his rule. They also see that there is a cultural genocide taking place.
Therefore, I am confident that Tamils will never vote for Mahinda but Voting for opposition is not guarnteed unless there is some light from the opposition that there will be a peace and there will be no further barriers for proper functioning of the provincial council with the elected provincial government.
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W.Milton / December 11, 2014
What is the politics practice by TNA? Is outright anti-establishment and anti-national political party that class of few Tamils who want Separatist state of Tamil Eelam major part of Sri lanka.
Can we agreed to have MOU with such political class of Tamils that join Democratic Governances?
Is principally wrong to be agreed on MOU with such Chauvinists and Communal party politics that against for SECULAR DEMOCRACY of Sri lanka. TNA still that core of leadership which that dominated by LTTE political agenda, that back by Tamil diaspora by and large. Further so-called US and UK led foreign intervention forces are behind TNA to undermine PEACE, STABILITY AND SECURITY OF SRI LANKA, AFTER END OF WAR 2009 MAY.
JVP is political party more or less Terrorist outfit since 1965 led by PDN Wijeweera of anarchist of Che Guvura politics. That is anti-democratic and anti- establishment political party of anarchist turn TERROSIST OUTFIT OF SOUTH OF SRI LANKA.
Why we want MOU with JVP of such political alliances?
What is purposed democracy of MOU?
What type of task we are going to achieve and undertaken with JVP?
History of JVP politics had been shown that their outright terrorist activities that undermine our whole Democratic order of Our nation. The writer has different class interest for MOU. But People of Majority of Sri Lankan totally rejected that JVP politics .
the so-called unholy alliance want come to power by hook or crook by any type of MOU or alliance led by MS led CBK and UNP-Ranil W….collaboration.
These anti-Democratic and anti-People elements target to undermine our value Democracy and Sovereignty of PEOPLE OF Sri lankans.
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truth / December 11, 2014
Giving independence to Ceylon is like giving a garland to a group of monkeys!
Sri Lankan politics revolves around ethnic, religious lines. Even educated people from the majority community are not above this. They are always for the Sinhala Budhist. They did not raise a voice when thousands of Tamils were slaughtered since independence. The worst time was During this regime!! Have they uttered a word? When election time comes only they remember and try to influence the Tamils!!How can you trust people who are “crossing” from one side to the other just like crossing the street?
Leaving the Tamil problem aside, have they raised their voice against nepotism, corruption, lawlessness up to now? They do not have even the courage to stage a satyagraha!!
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Taraki / December 12, 2014
‘They did not raise a voice when thousands of Tamils were slaughtered since independence. The worst time was During this regime!! Have they uttered a word?’
Can you remember Tamil politicians and people raising a voice when tens of thousands of Sinhalese were murdered in 1971 and 1988/89? No, nor can I.
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Native Vedda / December 13, 2014
Taraki
“Can you remember Tamil politicians and people raising a voice when tens of thousands of Sinhalese were murdered in 1971 and 1988/89?”
My Elders tell me:
SJV did raise his voice in 1971.
Did Sinhala/Buddhists raise voice when tens of thousands of Sinhalese were murdered in 1971 and 1988/89?
Mahinda went to Geneva. wasn’t it a treachery on his part, betraying the Sinhala/Buddhist state and its rulers.
My Elders also tell me a Tamil civil servant who was serving in down south saved the life of nearly 175 Sinhala youth in 1971 from police firing squad, risking his own life and job.
Go find another script writer who can give you some good ideas.
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Sellam / December 11, 2014
Yes, the Tamils are going to vote for the Common Candidate Mr.Sirisena. That is for sure. Then the problem will go on for another five years between the Tamils and Sinhala Sirisena. Consequently, the Tamils have to decide whom to vote at the next presidential elections. This will go on and on for another 100 years. Many of us won’t live to see what happens until and unless Sri Lanka goes under the sea like the Lost Continent of KUMARI KANDAM.
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Leon / December 11, 2014
You are being naive Dr. If Sirisena signs an MOU with thenTNA that would be his death knell. You will be handing over to the incumbent regime a,stick to bash the Common Cadidate that he is pandering to the Tamils and the Tamil Diaspora. No,Singhalese leader would even touch the TNA even with a barge pole.Hasn’t Histrory taught us from 1948,
This is the reason that the TNA should have fielded a Tamil candidate to find out what support they have for the Right of Selfdetermination which after all is covered by the UN charter.
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Navin / December 11, 2014
Another d-rope being offered to the Tamils, this time, by Leon.
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Rajash / December 11, 2014
The fundamenatl issue is that the common candidate is not common to all Sri Lankans. He is in fact another “Sri Lanka Sinhala Budhhist” supported by another faction of “Sri Lanka Sinhala Buddhist” consisting of ex presidents and prime ministers RW , CBK etc
It’s ok for Rajasigham Narendran to say that Tamils should vote as Sri Lankans in the presidiential elections but unfortunately it’s the local issues at heart to the Tamils that will be the decider for any elections, such as heavy military, discrimination, displacemnt etc
The Tamil voters rejected the UPFA candidate in the PC election with a massive anti Rajapakse vote.
They will definitely reject him again. However the Tamils are not going to benefit by rejecting Rajapakse and voting for My3.
TNA by remaining silent will take the Tamil equation out of the election propganda.
This may be the first Presidential that may be fought without uttering the word Tamil
That is good for the future of the country if the word Tamil is gradually eradicated from the mind of the rural Sinhala voters as a divisive word.
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Uthungan / December 12, 2014
“That is good for the future of the country if the word “Tamil”is gradually erased from the mind of the rural Sinhala voters as a divisive word.
Do you then think that the Sinhalese should request the Presidential contestants for an undertaking to disenfranchise the Tamils and push them into the sea, so that not only the rural Sinhalese but all Sinhalese would be happy and the future of the country would be assured?
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Rajash / December 12, 2014
Uthungan “Do you then think that the Sinhalese should request the Presidential contestants for an undertaking to disenfranchise the Tamils and push them into the sea, so that not only the rural Sinhalese but all Sinhalese would be happy and the future of the country would be assured? “
So you think signing a MOU will solve the issue.
Tamil is and has always being used as a divisive word during every election and even during the time of Ceylon by the Sinhala politicians to hoodwink and brainwash the Sinhala people.
This election is the first one that is fought not on the Tamil issue, however Mara is still boasting about defeating the LTTE in the past tense, It wil be interesting to see how the Sihala masses vote.
If on the other hand if Tamils were portrayed in a positive manner as part of the united Sri Lanka as contributing to the economy etc…the very same rural Sinhala masses would not give a hoot.
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Ahmed Reza / December 11, 2014
The content in parenthesis at the end of the article interested me most. After Alutgama, Muslims – 99% of them – know that they have to vote for Maithri in order to get rid of Mara. So be assured Muslims will vote en bloc for Maithri on Jan 8th.
Muslims do not believe anymore in politicians with Muslim names. Most of them know from personal contact with those politicians that they are prostitutes in politics for the money and perks. SLMC? Forget it. Only an intellectually bankrupt Sinhala politician will invest in a politician with a Muslim name.
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Vasantha Raja / December 11, 2014
Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim masses should unite (overriding and ignoring all differences) in this historic election to defeat the despot who epitomizes the post-independence racism in Sri Lanka. January 08 is likely to mark the biggest turning-point since Independence. Irrespective of what the politicians think and say at present, this unfolding drama will invariably bring hitherto dormant social forces into action on an unprecedented scale. Why? The answer is simple. The Rajapaksa-Dynasty will not hand over power to the Opposition peacefully for very good reasons. They know very well, without political power, they’ll be in BIG trouble. Therefore, all progressive forces should anticipate a military intervention, rather than a smooth transition of political power. But, I have no doubt, the democratic forces in Sri Lanka will take to the streets to defend democracy, and that will be a thousand times more powerful than the 1953 ‘harthal’ (general strike) in Sri Lanka. Such a scenario will inevitably create the ideal conditions for the democratic revolution to proceed. In other words, the post-election scenario will create the potential for big changes in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it would be naive if the Tamil and Muslim leaders stupidly contribute to split the vote at this crucial juncture [See my Facebook Wall]
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Eusense / December 11, 2014
There is nothing in the constitution or in the legal system that discriminate Tamils or any other minorities. Therefore there is nothing any gov. can or has to do further by signing MOUs with any group. If Tamils are looking for self rule, that will be hard to come by specially as a group consisting of only 8% of the population plus with no constitutionally or legally enforced discrimination against them.
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Sena / December 11, 2014
The first thing to be fixed is the Family Dynasty. All other issues are secondary . There is just one Island in which everything else needs to be solved the Biggest stumbling block needs to be now removed that’s the
“Family” and the corruption and authoritarianism attached to it. One should be clear of the election objective MR wants the election prematurely to crown himself and the issue is clearly to first remove him everything else can follow thereafter.
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Murugan / December 11, 2014
I will explain TNA position, since you have an interesting article.
Opposition candidate. Firstly should not be supported by Tamils and most importantly because it is estimated that he will not win. Therefore supporting the opposition candidate with a deal and having Tamil votes flow that way is stupid. Rajapaksa will win the elections, and Tamils need to maintain friendship with him to keep the relationship between Wigneswaran and Rajapaksa.
Secondly, why will Tamils take no position? Obviously they should back Rajapaksa right, if he is going to win? So am I suggesting that it is advisable to engage in the politics of deception here? And take a neutral stance similar to 2005? No this is not politics of deception, this is the reality that Sinhalese never want anything good for Jaffna Tamil because we are like Africans that have tribalism. We have this for last thousand years, since Chola ruled in Pollonowura and was kicked out eventually by deep South so whatever. If Tamils make MOU with Rajapaksa, then Siriresena or whatever will win. Tamils don’t want this.
Third, whhy don’t Tamils want Siriresnea to wi? Because he seems to be getting backing from CBK. And CBK lives in London. So to me I just think he is getting backing from USA and if he had wanted to get Tamil support he shouldn’t have engaged in partisan politics. Because partisan politics corrupts the political body, and he shoudl run a fair campaign with hsi own resources.
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sangaralingham / December 12, 2014
why the politicians of all parties sit down and discuss with wise men women of srilanka across the province to find out the problems facing the country. Politicians of south using minorities to get elected is a cardinal sin. one will not tolerate with one traditions language culture of many generations. but war victory is false claim of their success as no one can fight and defeat national defence however any war like activity is a demonstration certain activitist by the so called majority is not acceptable to the minority group face it accept it for peace and prosperity in the country. election man
ifesto of all candidates must be open clear and understood to all especially minorities. elected officials must work for the country if not they should not contest.
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K.A Sumanasekera / December 12, 2014
LTTE proxy Premachandran is pissed off about the TNA signing a MOU with CC Sira.
This was reported in the Tamilnet, which is the media outlet of the Diaspora and the TNGTE..
TNA leader Sambandan didn’t go to PSC ,
But wanted all his demands approved by the President in a private deal, by passing the Parliament.
Has CC Sira granted Sambandan all his wishes in this MOU?.
Or rolling Rajapaksa over ride the demands for Tamil Bantustan in Jaffna?..
If Sira agreed to TNA demands , why would Prema get upset, rather pissed off.?.
May be Dayan can ask CC Sira this , before the Election… .
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Richard Kaz / December 12, 2014
Although I agree mainly with this article’s message, one issue needs to be identified. Why do Sinhala moderates continue to try to balance and compare comments from Tamil extremists with Sinhala extremists when the Tamil extremists quoted are usually in the fringe and do not represent Tamil opinion whereas the Sinhala extremists quoted are very much the power elite, the mainstream.
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Sengodan. M / December 12, 2014
What use of MOUs which after all are writings on water! What happened to the B-C pact? What happened to the Dudley -Chelva pact? It is all history
What matters most is mutual goodwill between communities and an attitude of live and let live. So, long as these basic things are not there, MOUs will be of little good. Leaders must learn to think good and do good.
Why cannot the Tamils and Muslims aspire to retain their ethnic/religious identities? What is wrong in that?
In the present climate, if one leader thinks of showing respect to these diverse identities, the opposite leader will immediately brand him a traitor? When will we all get out of this cocoon?
Sengodan. M
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Lanka Watch / December 12, 2014
WHY NO MOU WITH TNA
——————-
Ruling and the opposition parties are in a dilemma and caught up in a situation where they cannot get out of it easily. They brainwashed the majority people all along saying that the Tamils are aliens and playing
the Ltte card to distract the people and the same parties now cannot get back to the Tamils for votes as TNA controls the Tamil vote bank in N/E, which is huge with Tamils residing all over SL, compared to the mushroom parties MS signed MOUs with.
lTTE stories are taken off the shelves as outdated and they have no new
stories to please the majority community.TNA should stand firm until
such time,one of the parties come forward out with a MOU or a gentleman
agreement and if approaches are not made towards the end of December, TNA should ask the Tamil voters to vote for the Tamil candidate or if not there, ask them to vote for a democratic candidate contesting the EP election as boycotting an election is undemocratic and gives room for rigging and impersonation, and watch the fun as Tamil votes will decide who the President would be, as per analysts monitoring the current election.They are certainly testing the sentiments of the Tamil people, who are rightful citizens of this country and a proper lesson will be taught, which could be remembered for years to come.
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