Supporting Tamil candidate could disrupt reconciliation efforts: SLPP Politburo Member Cassilingham

31 August 2024 05:09 pm Views - 1984

Colombo, August 31 (Daily Mirror) - Geethanath Cassilingham, a Politburo member of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) from the Northern Province has expressed serious concern over the idea of supporting a Tamil common candidature. 

He warned that this could unintentionally disrupt the ongoing reconciliation efforts in the country. 

Cassilingham emphasized that the focus of the presidency should be on policies and qualifications, not ethnicity.

He cautioned that emphasizing ethnic divisions could weaken the Tamil cause and set back national reconciliation. 

"Tamil politicians need to act responsibly and not blame the South for potential fallout," he stated.

Cassilingham also highlighted the potential consequences of irresponsible actions by Tamil politicians, noting that "it’s the ordinary people who will suffer." 

Thus, he called for a more inclusive and peaceful approach, warning against the dangers of fueling extremism.

Furthermore, he stressed that the priority should not be separation but improving livelihoods, enhancing the quality of life, attracting investments to the North, and turning the region into a trading hub to benefit the local economy and communities. 

Cassilingham also urged an end to the extreme ideology of a separate state, advocating instead for a modern and peaceful Sri Lanka for all communities.