Political reform will not occur in Sri Lanka, at least as far as the South is concerned, unless Sinhalese take the initiative. Lack of leadership, as you mention, is not an excuse. Sinhalese are the ones with the voting power; as corrupt as the present administration, it could not be elected without the consent of the majority. In the UK, the British National Party (BP) enjoys very little popular support. This is how it is in the West; the anti-immigration, often openly racist nationalist parties do not have any clout in mainstream politics. Even if the Caucasian voters are themselves anti-immigrant or some such thing, they understand the price of nationalism & racism: unfavorable economics and poor international relations. It is this liberal tendency which has evaded the majority of Sinhalese in Sri Lanka.

The government must be the first to come under severe scrutiniy.

She did not show any discrimination towards any youths wandering in the jail. Especially when the suspects involved in the Chandrika attempted murder case were languishing in jail, none of the LTTE lawyers came forward to look into the interests of these suspects. But it is Ms.Maheswary Velautham who came forward to move for a Bail Application for these suspects in spite of the threats to her life. Apparently the Tamils saw a fearless figure during the Chemmani investigation when a heated argument ensued between the State Counsel and herself. Her main motive was to see that these misguided youths be rehabilitated and lead a fresh life.

Similarly she had sent so many cases to us for their release. Having done so much for the youths, it is regret to note that the LTTE has shown their ingratitude towards her by killing her. She found more jobs for the womenfolk. Services to the poor was in her blood. Having done so much for the youths, it is regret to note that the LTTE has shown their ingratitude towards her by killing her at a time when she went to see her mother who was in coma at her mother’s house. Her contribution to mankind was certainly better than a number of politicians. What has the LTTE achieved during the 32 years of growth other than murdering the moderate Tamils, politicians, professionals, academics and government servants. The LTTE is reputed for murdering ladies (another instance of Mrs.S.Yogeswaran) who have come forward to offer services. The LTTE must show its talent with words against a non-combatant and not with guns. Similarly the government should respect all its citizens, but it is the duty of every citizen and politicians to co-operate with the government in identifying the trouble makers. However, since the terrorists had already infiltrated into all government offices and also since some politicians have secret links with the terrorists, it is a difficult task for the government to identify the real terrorists. In a country like Sri Lanka, where politicians are criminalized and criminals are politicized, an appeal to respect for Human Rights appears to be blowing on deaf ears. It is immaterial whether it is a Vesak Day or a New Year Day or Pongal, etc., as both parties to the conflict are thirsty for power. It appear it will take another one full year or so until they are tired and short of man-power.

The Kalmunai incident and other incidents cited above are indicative of the impunity which prevails, but this is totally ignored by the government of which the EPDP is a partner.

Vesak is one of the 13 poya days which are ignored by many buddhists. The buddhist clergy themselves are militant and crying for the elimination of the LTTE by killing all members of the organisation.

The above appeal will have no effect whatsoever on the government.