Friday, Nov 07, 2003
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By V.S. Sambandan
"It is definitely our intention to proceed with the negotiations on the lines already indicated in our response to the LTTE's proposals," Prof. Peiris told The Hindu here today. On the current political developments and their impact on the peace process, he said: "it is obvious that the situation in the south will be watched closely by all concerned, including the LTTE. This kind of uncertainty is not helpful for the process. Above all else, we need stability", he said adding that restoring "stability and clarity" at the earliest was "in everyone's interest". The defence portfolio and "the functions associated with that" were "a central part'' of the "confidence building measures" worked out between the Government and the Tigers and "an abrupt change at this stage without any form of consultation with the Prime Minister is certainly going to inject an element of strain and tension into the situation which has unhelpful consequences". Asked about the current political situation, Prof. Peiris said the Government would "ensure that the mandate entrusted to us by the people is carried out" and that it "cannot allow it to be compromised in any undemocratic manner". As "the people elected this government and expected to us to get on with the job of working, keeping with the manifesto placed before the people", there "cannot be any unwarranted or undemocratic interference with that". On the future course of action, he said: "We will resist by all democratic and lawful means at our disposal, taking care to ensure that we exercise restraint and always act within the laws of the country". The ruling United National Front also maintained that it had a majority in Parliament, with 128 MPs expressing their support, including the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress with 12 MPs and the Tamil National Alliance with 15 MPs.
A bold step, says MEP
The Mahajana Eksath Peramuna, a political ally of President Chandrika Kumaratunga, today welcomed her "bold and courageous steps" taken to protect the national security. Party leader Dinesh Gunawardene expressed solidarity with the President and criticised the LTTE's counter-proposals as leading to separation. In another development, a journalist attached to the President's official website was denied entry to a special briefing held by the Cabinet spokesman, Prof. Peiris.
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