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சீனி. மாணிக்கவாசகம்
By: ஈழம் ரஞ்சன்
தமிழீழ தேசியத்தலைவர் மேதகு வே.பிரபாகரன் அவர்களின் உள்ளூர் மற்றும் சர்வதேச பத்திரிகையாளர் மாநாடு.தமிழர் வரலாற்றில் முக்கியமான நாள் இன்றாகும் .-10/04/2002-
2002 ஏப்ரல் மாதத்தின் 10ம் நாள் சிங்களதேசத்தின் ஊடகங்கள் அனைத்தும், இந்தியாவின் அச்சு, ஓலி,ஒளி, இலத்திரனியல் ஊடகங்கள் முழுதும், சர்வதேசத்தின் மிக முக்கியமான ஊடக நிறுவனங்கள் எல்லாம் கிளிநொச்சியில் குழுமி இருந்தனர்.
தமிழர்களின் வரலாற்றில் ஒரு தமிழனின் செய்திக்காக அவர் சொல்லப்போகும் பதில்களுக்காக ஒரே நேரத்தில் இவ்வளவு பத்திரிகையாளர்களும் ஊடகங்களும் குழுமியது வரலாற்றில் முதலானது. அதனைவிட சிங்களதேசத்தின் அதிபர்கள் நடாத்திய எந்தவொரு ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பிலும் அதுவரை இவ்வளவு பெருந்திரளாக வந்ததே இல்லையென்றே சிங்கள ஊடகங்கள் கூட வர்ணித்திருந்தன அந்த சந்திப்பை.
இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்புக்கு தேதி குறித்த பின்னர் இது நடப்பதற்கு இரண்டு நாட்களுக்கு முன்னர் வடக்கையும் சிங்களதேசத்தையும் இணைக்கும் ஏ9 பாதை திறந்துவிடப்பட்டது.
தமிழர்களின் விடுதலைப்போராட்ட வரலாற்றில் இந்த நாள் மிக முக்கியமான நாளாகும். தமிழீழ விடுதலையின் மூலஇயக்கு சக்தியான தேசியத்தலைவர் இதற்கு முன்னர் பல்வேறு சந்தர்ப்பங்களில் பல்வேறு ஊடகவியலாளர்களுக்கு பேட்டிகள் வழங்கி இருந்தாலும் 2002 ஏப்ரல் 10ம்நாள்தான் விடுதலைப்புலிகள் தமது தலைவருடன் உலக பத்திரிகையாளர்க
ள் அனைவரும் சந்திக்கும் ஒரு பெரும் அழைப்பை விடுத்திருந்தனர்.
உலக ஊடகங்களுக்கும் இது வித்தியாசமான ஒரு அனுபவமாகவே அவர்கள் பதிந்தார்கள்.
அதுநாள் வரைக்கும் தமிழீழ விடுதலைப்புலிகளின் கொள்கைப் பிரகடனமாக, வேலைத்திட்ட அறிவிப்பாக, உலகத்துக்கு செய்தியாக உலகம் கணித்து வந்தது ஒவ்வொரு மாவீரர் நாளிலும் தேசியத்தலைவரின் குரலில் வெளிவரும் மாவீரர் உரையை வைத்துதான். முதல்முறையாக தமது சந்தேகங்களை தமது கேள்விகளை தேசியத்தலைவரிடம் நேரடியாக கேட்பதற்கு கிடைத்த இந்த சந்தர்ப்பம் முக்கியமான ஒன்றாகவே கருதப்பட்டது.
இது ஒரு புறம்இருக்க, இந்த சந்திப்பை சிங்களதேசத்தின் ஆளும்தரப்பு அவ்வளவாக மகிழ்வுடன் ஏற்றுக்கொண்டதாக இல்லை.தேசியத்தலைவரின் இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பை நேரடியாக சிங்களதேசத்தின் தேசிய தொலைக்காட்சியாக கருதப்பட்ட ரூபவாகினியில் நேரடியாக ஒளிபரப்பியே தீரவேண்டிய தவிர்க்கமுடியாத நிர்ப்பந்தமும் சிங்களத்துக்கு ஏற்பட்டது.
விடுதலைப்புலிகளை சுற்றி மர்மங்களையும் விடைகள் இல்லாத கேள்விகளையும் தொடர்ச்சியாக இருக்கவைப்பதன் மூலமே விடுதலைப்புலிகளை ஒரு பயங்கர சக்தியாக உலகின் கண்களுக்குள் தக்க வைக்கமுடியும் என்பதே சிங்களத்தின் எண்ணம்.
இத்தகைய மர்மங்கள் நீங்குவதிலோ,உலகின் கேள்விகளுக்கு விடுதலைப்புலிகள
ின் அதிஉச்சமான தலைவரே நேரடியாக பதில் வழங்குவதோ சிங்கள ஆட்சியாளர்களுக்கு பிடிப்பதமானதாக இருந்திருக்கவே முடியாது.
ஆனாலும் நிபந்தனையற்ற பேச்சுவார்த்தை,போர் நிறுத்தம்,மற்று
ம் முக்கியமாக மூன்றாம் தரப்பு மத்தியஸ்தம் என்ற நாடகத்தில் இத்தகைய அடுத்த தரப்பினரின் இத்தகைய ஊடக சந்திப்புகளை மறுப்பதோ தடை செய்வதோ முடியாது என்பதால்தான் சிங்களமும் இதற்கு ஒப்புகொள்வதாக சொல்லவேண்டி வந்தது.
ஆயுதந்தாங்கிய விடுதலைப் போராட்டத்தை முன்னெடுத்து வரும் ஒரு அமைப்பு என்ற முறையில் மாறிவரும் உலக நிலைமைகளில் தமது நிலைப்பாட்டை வெளிஉலகத்துக்கு பகிரங்கமாக அதே நேரம் முடிவுகளை எடுக்கும் ஆற்றல்மிக்க ஒரே சக்தியான தேசியத்தலைவரின் குரலில் சொல்வதற்கான சந்தர்ப்பாக இதனை கணித்திருந்தார்கள்.
அதிலும் இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பு நடப்பதற்கு சரியாக ஏழு மாதத்துக்கு முன்னர் உலகின் அனைத்து சமநிலைகளையும் ஆயுதந்தாங்கிய போராட்டங்கள் பற்றிய கணிப்புகளையும் தலைகீழாக மாற்றிய இரட்டை கோபுரச் சம்பவம் 2001 செப்படம்பர் 11ல் நிகழ்ந்தேறி இருந்தது. (இந்த கேள்வியும் தலைவரின் ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பில் கேட்கப்பட்டது).
இராணுவ பல சமநிலையில் ஏறத்தாழ சிங்கள தேசத்துக்கு ஒப்பானதாக விடுதலைப்புலிகள் அந்நேரம் பலத்துடன் இருந்தாலும் செப்டம்பர் 11க்கு பின்னான உலகின் கேள்விகள் வித்தியாசமானதாக இருந்ததால், அதற்கு தேசிய தலைவர்தான் பதில் அளிப்பது காத்திரமானதாக இருக்கும் என்பதாலும் நடாத்தப்பட்டது.
இந்த பத்திரிகையாளர் மாநாட்டில் கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்விகளுக்கும் அதற்கான தேசியத்தலைவரின் பதில்களுக்கும் அப்பால் தேசியத்தலைவர் தன்னை நோக்கி கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்விகளை உள்வாங்கும் முறைமையும் எந்தவொரு கட்டத்திலும் உணர்ச்சி வசப்படாமல் ஒரு மிகத்தேர்ந்த தலைவனுக்கு உரிய அணுமுறையை கையாண்டதாகவே, ஒரு பழுத்த இராஜதந்திரிக்கே உரிய வார்த்தை பிரயோகங்களை வெளிப்படுத்தியதாகவுமே ஆச்சரியத்துடன் உலக ஊடகங்கள் எழுதின.
இந்த பத்திரிகையாளர் சந்திப்பு பற்றி அதில் கலந்துகொண்ட சிங்கள ஊடகவியலாளரான ரஞ்சன் பெரேரா கூறுகையில் “பிரபாகரனின் செய்தியாளர் மாநாடு வரலாறு காணாத நிகழ்வாகும். 300க்கும் மேற்பட்ட உள்நாட்டு-வெளிநாட்டு ஊடகவியலாளர்கள் மிகுந்த சிரமத்துடன் இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் மாநாட்டில் கலந்துகொண்டனர். இந்த மாநாடு மூலம் உலகில் விடுதலைப்புலிகளுக்கு இருந்த முக்கியத்துவத்தை உணரமுடிந்தது.
பிரபாகரனை பற்றிய எவ்வளவோ கதைகளும் கற்பனைகளும் பரவி இருந்தவேளையில் செய்தியாளர்கள் மாநாட்டில் மிகச் சாதாரணமாக காட்சியளித்தார். அவரது ஒவ்வொரு சொல்லும் அவரைப் பற்றிய தவறான கருத்துகளை போக்கின என்றோ சொல்ல வேண்டும்” என்று சொன்னார்.
இந்த பத்திரிகையாளர் சந்திப்பில் கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்விகளுக்கு தலைவர் கொடுத்த பதில்கள் வெறுமனே அந்த ஊடகம் கேட்ட கேள்விக்கான பதில் என்பதாக மட்டும் இல்லாமல் அதனை பார்க்கும், கேட்கும், வாசிக்கும் உலக அரங்கிற்கு சொல்லப்பட்ட பதில்களாகவே மிகவும் அற்புதமாக அமைந்திருந்தன.
என்றுமே சிங்கள பேரிவாதம் அதன் அடக்குமுறை முகத்தை மாற்றிக்கொள்ளாது என்று வரலாற்று அனுபவங்கள் மூலம் தெரிந்து கொண்டிருந்தாலும் பிரிந்துசெல்லும் முடிவை மாற்றுவதற்கான அணுகுமுறை சிங்களத்தின் நடைமுறையில்தான் இருக்கின்றது என சொல்லி இருந்தார்.
மீண்டும் ஆயுதந்தாங்கி போராட விடுதலைப்புலிகள் போகபோகிறார்கள் என்ற கருத்தை தேசியதலைவரின் வாயால் சொல்ல வைப்பதற்காக
“பேச்சுவார்த்தை தோல்வியடைந்தால்
.?” என்று கேட்கப்பட்டபோது மிகவும் இலாவகமாக வார்த்தையை தெரிவுசெய்து
“பேச்சுவார்த்தை தோல்வியடைந்தாலும் தொடர்ந்து சமாதான முயற்சிகளை மேற்கொள்வோம்” என்று சொன்னதும்,
“பேச்சுவார்த்தையில் அதிபர் சந்திரிகா குழப்பம் ஏற்படுத்துவார் என்று நினைக்கிறீர்களா”? என்று கேட்கப்பட்டபோது சிங்களதேசத்தின் ஒரு அதிபர் தமிழ் மக்களுக்கு உரிமை கொடுப்பதற்கு எத்தகைய தடங்கல்களை கொடுப்பார் என்று தெரிந்திருந்தும்
“சந்திரிகா குழப்பம் ஏற்படுத்துவார் என்று நாங்கள் நினைக்கவில்லை.” என்பதுடன் நின்றுவிடாமல்
“அவர் அப்படி ஏதும் செய்தால் அதை பார்த்து கொள்வது ரணிலின் பொறுப்பு” என்று சொன்னதன் மூலம் பதிலிலேயே ரணிலுக்கான செய்தியையும் சொல்லி இருந்தது இன்றும் ஆச்சர்யத்துடன் நோக்கப்படுகிறது.
ஏறத்தாழ இதே மாதிரியான கேள்வி ஒன்று இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்புக்கு பதினெட்டு வருடங்களுக்கு முன்னர் 1984ம் ஆண்டு மார்ச் மாதம் ‘சண்டே’ இதழுக்காக அனிதா பிரதாப்பால் கேட்கப்பட்டபோது
“ஜே.ஆர்.ஜெயவர்த்தன ஒரு உண்மையான பௌத்தனாக இருந்திருந்தால் நான் ஆயுதம் ஏந்தி இருந்திருக்க மாட்டேன்” என்று கூறியிருந்ததும் தலைவர் சிங்களதேச அதிபர்களை பார்க்கும் எப்படி பார்க்கிறார் என்று காட்டியிருந்தது.
என்னை பொறுத்தவரையில் இந்த இனத்துக்கென்று தனியான ஏதும் கைகாட்டிநூலோ,வழிகாட்டி புத்தகமோ தேவையில்லை. தேசியத்தலைவரின் அனைத்து பேட்டிகளையும் அவரது அனைத்து மாவீரர் உரைகளையும் தொகுத்தாலே அதற்குள் இந்த இனம் இப்போது செல்லவேண்டிய திசையும் பாதையும் அதற்கான பக்குவமான முறைகளும் பொதிந்து கிடக்கும்.இருள்நிறைந்த இந்நேரத்தில் அவைகளே பாதை வெளிச்சங்களாக ஒளிதரக் கூடியவை.
Hon. V. Prabhakaran : Press Conference at Killinochi 2002.
VELUPILLAI PRABHAKARAN
Press Conference at Killinochi, Tamil Eelam
10 April 2002
Tamil tiger chief Velupillai Prabhakaran answering a wide range of questions at Wednesday’s press conference said the group was not yet willing to drop the demand for a separate state, but said he was willing to consider if the demand for a Tamil homeland, Tamil nationality and Tamil rights are met.
Following are excerpts of the press conference held at the Political School of the LTTE in Kilinochchi.
Q: From the inception you have been struggling for an independent state. Are you willing to renounce that and accept any federal model.?
A: Conditions have not arisen to abandon an independent statehood. The struggle for Eelam is a demand of the Tamil people. In the 1977 elections, people have given a mandate to the TULF to fight for a separate state.
Q: How serious are you about the peace process. There has been doubt about your genuineness?
A: We are sincerely committed to the peace process. It is because we are sincerely committed to peace that we continued a four month cessation of hostilities.
Q: Since you have accepted an interim administration under the Sri Lankan government will you accept the hegemony of the Sri Lankan state?
A: We have not discussed the formalities or the framework of the interim administration . It has to be discussed with the Sri Lankan government . This does not arise since we have not started the peace process.
Q: Will you go to Thailand with this idea?
A: So far on the demand for Eelam we have not decided as yet. We are going to Thailand to discuss the interim administration as proposed by the government.
Q: What about the ban on the LTTE imposed in India ?
A: We want the government of India to lift the ban on the LTTE. We will raise the issue at the appropriate time.
Q: You have been indicted in the Gandhi assassination ?
A: This case is going on. Four persons have been convicted. They are seeking amnesty at the moment. We do not want to make any comments at this moment.
Q: Are you denying involvement in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination?
A: (Mr. Balasingham). I know this is a sensitive issue, not only for you but for us as well. You are raising an issue that happened 10 years ago. We want to have friendly relations with India.
Q: What have you to say about the charges ?
A: This is a “tragic incident.” that has taken place ten years back. We cannot comment on the issue.
Q: The Rajiv Gandhi assassination…
A: (Dr. Balasingham) You are trying to dominate the press conference. You have come here when the peace process is on. You are talking of an old incident. Do not dig into the past.
Q: Why should anyone should believe that the ceasefire will lead to peace or why the LTTE will not start fighting back as happened in the past.
A: This is the first time that a third party, Norway, has got involved as a facilitator. We believe that the peace process will work.
Q: There is widespread feeling that the reason you are speaking now is because of the action by the United States against terrorism, after the events in September 11. Do you agree with that?
A: The LTTE has initiated peace moves before the September 11 incident. Furthermore Norway’s peace envoy Erik Solheim has been given an assurance that we want a negotiated settlement.
Q: For 25 years you have been adopting a military strategy to achieve your goal, but now you seem to be embarking on a political path. Is the tiger changing its stripes ?
A: Our political struggle began in the form of non-violence. Leaders in the past believed that they can use a non-violent method. Because the non-violent methods were crushed we were forced to take up arms to defend ourselves. We were compelled to take arms. Whenever there was an opportunity we have opted to settle the problem peacefully.
Q: Is there any message you hope to give, by inviting us here today ?
A: There has been lot of misunderstanding about the LTTE. We would like to explain through the international media that the LTTE is committed to peace and a negotiated settlement.
Q: Will you allow other parties to function in the north and what do you feel about the collaboration between the Sri Lankan and US Governments ?
A: We can assure you that other political parties whatever their policies may be, will be allowed to function in the North-East and participate in the democratic political process. As far as the collaboration between the US & SL governments is concerned it is not of our concern to condemn or criticise the current global developments or the position of different political regimes. As far as we are concerned we are determined to fight for the political rights of the Tamils, irrespective of whether Sri Lanka is aligned to America or the Soviet Union or any other world power. We are committed to the emancipation of our own people.
Q: You have apologized to the Muslims but not made an open invitation for their return.
A: We have already apologized to them. If we invite them, there should be some conducive set up for them to live. Our leader will certainly extend an invitation for them to come to the north and live with us.
Q: There are reports about Muslims in the East being harassed. It is reported that they have no rights to the land.
A: We have called the service commanders from the east to discuss the alleged harassment of Muslims. We have called Karikalan for a meeting and asked him what has gone wrong. He has assured us that he has made no such statement and it is a distortion. We believe that the Tamil homeland belongs to the Muslim people and we believe that there is no dispute that Muslims have a right to own land. When Mr. Hakeem comes we will discuss the matter.
Q: You say you will allow political parties to function in the north and east. How can you seriously say so when the LTTE has assassinated Tamil moderates ?
A: We do not want to go into details, as there have been contradictions between Tamil parties in the past. Now almost all the Tamil parties in the north and east are supporting the LTTE. There are some Tamil armed groups that we do not consider as political entities as such, but as mercenaries and they support the Sri Lanka armed forces against the LTTE. So we have requested that the armed groups be disarmed. Now the situation is almost that all parties that contested in the north & east are supporting the LTTE. In future there will be no problems. We will allow the genuine democratic Tamil parties to function in the north-east as democratic entities.
Q: Are you ready to give up your armed struggle and if not why?
A; We will seriously consider renouncing the armed struggle if a solution acceptable to our people is worked out.
Q: Upcountry youth have been in custody for several years, what about these people. But no leaders are taking any action.
A: We have been constantly campaigning for the release of these prisoners. Most of them are suspected LTTE members. They are kept without any trial. We have requested Tamil parties to agitate for their release and we are going to appeal to the government to repeal the PTA.
Q: What are the conditions that you say would be right for you to give up your armed struggle? Can you please explain the impact of the ban on your organization throughout the world?
A: There are three fundamentals. That is Tamil homeland, Tamil nationality and Tamil right to self-determination. These are the fundamental demands of the Tamil people. Once these demands are accepted or a political solution is put forward by recognising these three fundamentals and our people are satisfied with the solutions we will consider giving up the demand for Eelam.
It is true that several countries have imposed the ban due to the malicious campaign by the Sri Lanka government against the LTTE. It is because of these reasons we have appealed to the government of Sri Lanka to de-proscribe our organization before the commencement of negotiations. Once our organization is de-proscribed we will campaign in the rest of the world to get the ban lifted in the rest of the world.
Q: Will Mr. Pirabaharan accept any responsibility under the Interim administration?
A: We haven’t started any dialogue about an interim administration. When that arises I will think whether to accept any responsibility or not.
Q: Will you allow Muslim participation in the peace process?
A: Certainly we will allow Muslim representation in the peace process as it is crucial.
Q: You said the Gandhi assassination was a tragic incident. How do you look at other tragic incidents. Are you satisfied with the pace of the peace process. Also what is your greatest military victory?
A: I am pleased with the peace process and also want to compliment Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe for the action he has taken to proceed with the peace process and the goodwill measures taken in the north-east towards normalcy.
Q: There have been incidents in the past that led to your proscription. What would be your message to the other side that would be incidents of the past.
A: (Dr. Balasingham). I have openly said that we want to have friendly relationships with India and that we want a positive participation of India in the peace process. I myself openly requested India to give me a venue so that I can land in India, for two reasons. One is for logistical reasons and the other for medical reasons. I am a transplant patient. I have a serious kidney ailment and if India provides me with a passage or venue to land in any of the cities in Tamil Nadu, I will be pleased. I have to come and consult Mr. Pirabaharan if the peace process is initiated. India’s active participation in the peace process is crucial for the Tamil people because India is a regional super power. Since India was not taking any active interest in the process, the government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE have requested the Norwegian government to play a facilitatory role. It is not to isolate or alienate India from playing an active role.
Q: Have you directly requested the Indian government?
A: We have requested Norway to make the request. They (India) have not rejected our request, but still it is on the agenda.
Q: Mr. Pirabaharan, you are said to have told your cadres that if you give up the demand for Tamil Eelam, you can be shot. Does that statement stand?
A: That statement stands.
Q: How do you plan to respond to allegations of human rights violations and recruitment of child soldiers now that the LTTE is keen to be an acceptable member of the global community?
A: The allegation that we are recruiting children is untenable and unacceptable. We have decided to recruit people over 18. The people below 18 who came to join us were sent back to their parents and we are collecting letters from their parents. There is no need at this present stage to recruit children. It is impossible for the LTTE to conduct an effective war with children or a baby brigade. We have child welfare centres and orphanages to look after children.
Q: You have been living an underground life and you may be frustrated with the underground life . Is that the reason to come out?
A: We are not the people who are worried about the underground life or a strenuous life . We are prepared to fight for the political rights of our people.
Q: Are you ready to take up a political responsibility?
A: We have been fighting this guerrilla war for the liberation of our people – for the welfare of our people. Therefore we are not concerned about our personal political life. That is a secondary matter where I have not seriously thought about accepting a political position or a political leadership in the future. Even now we are engaged in this press briefing because we are really concerned about peace and a peaceful settlement of the ethnic war. It is our genuine concern for the welfare of our people that has made us get involved in the current peace process.
Q The question is about working within the democratic system. Would Mr. Pirabaharan be ready to do so rather than head a military outfit.
A: The solution is within the democratic, political framework . Our organisation will seriously participate in that process and our cadres will also involve themselves in the political mainstream.
Q: What do you mean by self determination. You say you are fighting for the right of your people based on the right for self determination, therefore, what do you mean by self determination?
A: By self determination we mean the right of our people to decide their own political destiny It can also mean /apply to autonomy and self government. If autonomy and self government is given to our people, then also we can say that the internal self determination is to some extent met. But if the Sri Lankan government rejects our demands for autonomy and self government and continues with repression, then as a last resort we would opt for cessation. That also comes under self determination. So self determination entails autonomy and self government. In an extreme case, in the last resort, it means cessation. Therefore we say, if the Sri Lankan government offers the Tamil people the form of self government and autonomy in recognition of our nationality and also the right to self determination then we will consider that offer. But if the government refuses to give us proper autonomy, proper self government and continue with this repression, then we have no other alternative but to fight for political independence and statehood. That is our perspective.
Q; What will you do if the government finally betrays you or if these talks collapse?
A: As far as we are concerned we have faith in the present government and we will continue to work with this government until a solution is reached. We cannot answer hypothetical questions.
Q: Do I understand you right that the events of September 11 and the international focus on terrorism has not changed your strategy and thinking at all. Have you not had cause to reassess the value of suicide bombing on civilian targets and assassinations in the light of September 11th?
A: We have issued an official statement condemning the incident of September 11th. We strongly condemn this act of violence perpetrated on innocent civilians under the name of a religion which advocates peace. Since we have adopted a peace process and that now we are committed to peace, we don’t want to make any comments about suicide attacks at this stage.
Q: You wanted the government to make a second proposal. What is your formula/vision ?
A: We have made a statement saying that a formula has to be worked out based on the Tamil demand for a homeland, nationality and self determination. We want a framework which recognises this fundamental core issue. It is on that basis that we are requesting the government to put forward a counter proposal and if the counter proposal envisages or embodies these demands and offer a substantive solution that satisfies the aspirations of our people, we will seriously or favourably consider such a framework .
Q: Do you think that the Ranil government can offer such a solution?
A: We don’t think Ranil Wickremesinghe is capable of addressing the core issues and offer us a permanent solution at this stage because you know executive powers are vested with the President and his powers are limited to Parliament. It is because of that, that we are suggesting the formation of an interim administrative set up so that we can run an administration in the N/E. The LTTE can participate in an interim administration in the N/E. In the meantime, Ranil Wickremesinghe will have enough space to build up southern Sri Lanka economically. So it will be advantageous for the Tamils as well as the Sinhalese to work out an interim set up for the time being. Once the interim set up is established then we are prepared to discuss the core issue and negotiate for a permanent settlement of the ethnic question. But we wish to insist that Ranil’s government is not politically stable or authoritative or powerful enough to take up the core demands of the Tamils and offer us a permanent solution.
Q: Do you think Chandrika Kumaratunga will scuttle the process?
A: We don’t anticipate that President Kumaratunga will create any serious difficulties for the peace process. Even if she tries to scuttle the peace process, its up to Ranil Wickremesinghe to ensure that such difficulties doesn’t arise and he should act in such a way that this process succeeds.
Q. How do you expect us to believe that you are genuine about pursuing democracy allowing other Tamil parties to survive in this area, when you spent your entire career sending suicide bombers to kill democratically elected politicians. And even today, we’re being filmed surrounded by goons. And you have the whole appearance of a military dictator. How do you expect us to take you seriously ?
A: We’re going to meet four Tamil political parties the day after tomorrow. These are the political parties, which once upon a time had serious differences with our political organisation. Now the whole scenario has changed and we’re inviting them to talk and discuss about various issues. If we are an authoritarian organisation trying to repress other political organisations, there is no need for us to call them and discuss. Similarly we’re calling the Muslim leadership and the plantation leadership also. So therefore the times have changed and we are adopting new strategies. Please understand.
The Wanni is an area controlled by the LTTE. There are security issues, there are security concerns. In the past you would have heard that there has been deep penetration groups who have penetrated into this areas and killed several of our senior leaders. So we have intensified our security systems here to protect our leadership. So today Mr. Pirabaharan is attending this conference. You are here, we have to ensure that no acts of violence or any disturbance takes place. Therefore we have allowed the Tamil police officers to guard these areas. So it doesn’t mean this security system indicates an authoritative system as such. In Colombo you will have far more intensive security arrangements when such events take place.
Q: There are so many countries. Why did you go far away and choose Norway as a facilitator ?
A: Norway is reputed for resolving international conflicts. Norway has undertaken peace missions in several countries. And secondly, it is the Government of Sri Lanka which opted for Norwegian facilitation and we decided that Norway would be an appropriate facilitator because of its neutrality and it has no strategic interest in this region.
Q: Has Norway facilitated or brought about a settlement with regard to the Palestinian issue. Now the Palestinian-Israeli problem is hotting up. Don’t you think that the Tamil problem will also end up in chaos if Norway initiated this peace process.
A: In the peace process there are times when difficulties arise and even peace talks collapse and war breaks out as we have experienced in the past. But that doesn’t mean we should give up our pursuit for peace and political settlement. We know the Palestinian problem had got into serious difficulties. But our problem is entirely different. At the same time, we want to use the Norwegian facilitation to engage in the peace process in Sri Lanka and we hope that this peace process will succeed.
Q: Will you (Mr. Pirabaharan) participate in talks in Thailand, because the Interpol representative was in Sri Lanka and he said that the Indian government has requested them to arrest Pirabaharan. So I want to know, in this situation, what is the answer. Will he be there ?
A: Mr. Balasingham will be the Chief Negotiator and he will be participating in the peace process. Even now we’re going to talk about the interim administration, not about a permanent solution. When peace talks for a permanent solution take place, we have to think about my participation. An the same time, Mr. Balasingham will visit me now and then from Thailand to consult on the formulation of this interim administration set up. So I’m not going to Thailand to engage in this current negotiation which will be confined only to the formulation of an interim set up.
Q. My question was re Interpol. India has requested the Interpol to arrest. What is your stand ?
A: We don’t want to make any comments on that, because we are still waiting for a positive response from the Government of India with regard to at least a passage through India for Mr. Balasingham to come from London and meet me. And I think the Government of India will favourably consider in the coming days by offering a passage for Mr. Balasingham to visit the Wanni. That’s all we can say.
Q: Will the peace talks take place after the de-proscription of the LTTE or not ?
A: Only after the de-proscription will we participate in the peace process.
Q. Does Mr. Pirabaharan fear America’s intervention if the peace process collapses.
A: I don’t consider that America will intervene in this conflict, if the present peace process collapses.
Q: Do you mean to say that talks in Thailand will be held only after the LTTE is de-proscribed?
A: Yes, that is our position. We have informed the government, we have told the Norwegians that de-proscription is a necessary condition for the commencements of talks.
Q: Will you settle for a suspended de-proscription
?
A: No. We want to be de-proscribed properly and the Prevention of Terrorism Act has to be properly amended so that we have to be de-proscribed and accepted as the authentic representative of our people, so that we participate in the peace process as the representative of our people with equal status. That has been our official position.
Q: Is the LTTE using the ceasefire as an opportunity to re-arm?
A: It is during the armed conflict that we were able to amass a large quantity of weapons and it is during peace time that we are deprived of that opportunity. During the battle of Elephant Pass we were able to acquire a large quantity of arms worth millions of rupees and also ammunition in large amounts. It is during the peace process that we are deprived of this opportunity.
Q: What does Mr. Pirabaharan consider as the greatest LTTE victory ?
A: I consider the government’s attempts to open up the A9 highway by military means. We defeated the armed forces in this military engagement, which is a major success that the LTTE has achieved so far.
Q. Which military general does Mr. Pirabaharan remember the most ? And for what?
A: I don’t consider any particular general as posing a serious challenge to the LTTE.
A journalist tries to thank the LTTE for organising this press conference and journalists shout asking him to sit down.
Q. What makes you think this ceasefire agreement will succeed when previous ones have failed?
A: Compared to the past ceasefire agreements this one is different for two reasons. One is that it is facilitated by a third party – the Norwegians. Secondly Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe is seriously and sincerely committed to peace and therefore appropriate conditions are available now for a permanent and stable peace than in the past.
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Pirapaharan commits to peace, self determination
It was reportedly the largest media event ever held in the island. The scale of the international and local media interest reflected the impact Mr. Vellupillai Pirapaharan has on Sri Lanka’s politics. His first press conference in over a decade – announced just a week in advance – drew almost six hundred reporters, photographers and cameramen from around the world to the war devastated town of Kilinochchi.
Flanked by the LTTE’s chief negotiator and political strategist, Mr. Anton Balasingham, Mr. Thamil Chelan, head of the LTTE’s political section and – unexpectedly – by two of his top commanders, Col. Karuna and Col. Pathuman, Mr. Pirapaharan fielded questions for over two and a half sometimes chaotic hours. Mr. Balasingham translated English questions and all of Mr. Pirapaharan’s responses for the benefit of the international press. As the LTTE’s chief negotiator and political strategist he also fielded questions or expanded on Mr. Pirapaharan’s responses.
As indicated on the movement’s press release announcing the conference, Mr. Pirapaharan spoke at length on the Norwegian peace initiative.
“I am very, very, pleased with the development of the peace process and I want to compliment Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe for the bold action he has taken to promote [this] and the goodwill measures in the north east,” he said.
“We want to use the Norwegian facilitation to engage … with Sri Lanka and we hope that [the peace process] will succeed,” he said. “We are sincerely and seriously committed to peace.”
Dismissing accusations the LTTE was insincere about peace and that the Tigers were under pressure due to the international war on terrorism, Mr. Pirapaharan pointed out his organisation had, among other moves, unilaterally observed a ceasefire for four months early last year. (The truce was rejected by Sri Lanka.)
“The LTTE has undertaken peace initiatives before the September 11th,” he said. “[Apart from the unilateral truce], I met with the Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim [ In Nov 1999]and gave him an assurance that the LTTE wanted peace and a negotiated political settlement.”
When asked if the ‘Tiger was changing its stripes’ as the LTTE was now adopting a political path after 25 years of armed struggle, Mr. Pirapaharan said “Our political struggle for the Tamil people began in the form of non violence., through peaceful methods. … It is because these non violent peaceful agitations were crushed by military means, by repression, that we were forced to take up arms to defend ourselves.”
“It is because of the objective conditions, the historic conditions that we were compelled to take up arms but whenever there were opportunities for peace in the past, we have opted for peaceful methods to resolve these problems,” he said further.
When asked about reports of violations of the indefinite ceasefire by the LTTE, Mr. Pirapaharan said the monitoring committee has not lodged any complaints or accusations that we have violated the terms of the ceasefire.
The LTTE leaders reiterated that the proscription of the LTTE would have to be lifted before they would participate in imminent negotiations in Thailand. They stressed they would not accept a temporary suspension of the ban.
“We want to be described properly. And the PTA has to be amended,” Mr. Balasingham said. “We want to be accepted as the authentic representatives of our people, so we can participate in talks with equal status.”
When asked if he would now renounce the independent state the LTTE has been fighting for and accept an alternative, Mr. Pirapaharan said “the right conditions have not arisen for the LTTE to abandon the policy of an independent statehood.”
“So far as the demand for Eelam is concerned , the LTTE has not made any decision so far as whether to give up the demand or accept an alternative,” Mr. Pirapaharan said.
“The struggle for political independence and statehood, the struggle for Tamil Eelam, is the demand of the Tamil people, not the LTTE as such,” he said further, stating that the popular endorsement given in 1977 by the electorate to the Tamil United Liberation Front’s independent state policy underpinned the LTTE’s objectives.
When queried as to what the LTTE required for a solution to be acceptable, Mr. Pirapaharan said: “There are three fundamentals; that is Tamil homeland, Tamil nationality and Tamil right to self-determination.”
“Once these fundamentals are accepted or a political solution is put forward by Sri Lanka recognizing these three fundamentals and if our people are satisfied with the framework of a solution that recognises these core issues then, we will consider giving up the demand for Eelam,” he said.
When queried what the LTTE meant by self-determination, Mr. Balasingham, in his capacity as the movement’s theoretician, replied: “we mean the right of people to decide their own political destiny – it can also apply to autonomy and self governance.”
“If autonomy and self governance is given to our people we can say that internal self-determination is to some extent met,” he said. “But if the Sri Lanka government rejects our demand for autonomy and self governance and continues with repression, then as a last resort we will opt for cessation – that also comes under self-determination.”
“Therefore we say if the Sri Lanka government offers the Tamil people a form of self government and autonomy in recognition of our homeland, nationality and the right to self-determination, then we will consider that offer,” Mr. Balasingham said further.
When asked if the LTTE would give up the armed struggle following a permanent solution, Mr. Pirapaharan said: “We will seriously consider renouncing our armed struggle if a solution acceptable to the people is worked out.”
However the LTTE leaders cautioned that the Wickremesinghe government was not stable and that it lacked sufficient leverage to solve the ethnic problem. A proposed interim administration would permit the de-escalation of the conflict, while allowing the newly elected government leeway to strengthen its position, they said.
“We do not think that Ranil Wickremesinghe is capable of addressing the core issues and offer us a permanent solution at this stage; because the executive powers of governance are vested with the president and his powers are limited to parliament,” Mr. Pirapaharan said.
“But we wish to insist that the Ranil’s government is not politically stable or authoritative or powerful enough to take up the core demands of the Tamils and offer us a permanent solution,” the LTTE leader stated.
“But, it is because of that we are suggesting the formulation of an interim administration set up in which the LTTE can participate in the north east. In the meantime Ranil Wickremesinghe will have enough space to build up southern Sri Lanka economically,” he said.
“As far as we are concerned we have faith in the present government and we will continue to work with [it] until a solution is reached,” Mr. Balasingham said.
Mr. Pirapaharan said he did not think President Chandrika Kumaratunga could derail the peace process. “Even if she tries to scuttle the peace process it is up to Ranil Wickremesinghe to ensure that such difficulties do not arise and ensure the peace process succeeds.”
Elaborating on the interim administration, Mr. Pirapaharan said the LTTE’s negotiators, led by Mr. Balasingham “are going to Thailand with the objective of discussing the formation of an interim administration.”
“The functions and duties of the interim government, the distribution of power, are issues that we have to discuss . So we cannot comment on the structure and nature of the interim administration now,” he said further.
On being asked if the LTTE would allow other Tamil political parties to operate, Mr. Pirapaharan said: “We can assure you that other political parties – whatever their policies may be – will be allowed to function in the north east and participate in the democratic electoral process.”
When asked why that assurance should be accepted, the LTTE leader pointed out “we are going to meet four Tamil political parties in two days. These are the parties once upon a time that had serious contradictions with our organisation. Now the whole scenario has changed and we are inviting them here to talk and discuss about various issues.”
“If we are an authoritarian organisation trying to repress other political organisations, there is no need for us to call them and with discuss with them. Similarly we are calling the Muslim leadership and the plantation Tamils’ leadership also,” he said. “Therefore the time has change and we are adopting new strategies.”
The LTTE leaders reiterated the movement’s earlier requests to the Indian government for a renewed, friendly relationship. “Without India’s active support and sympathy, this [ethnic] problem will not find a permanent settlement,” Mr. Balasingham said. “India’s active participation in the peace process is crucial for the Tamil people. … We don’t want to alienate or isolate India in the peace process.”
Mr. Pirapaharan refused to comment on the Rajiv Gandhi issue, point out that “this case is going on. There are four persons who have been condemned to death. They are seeking an amnesty from the government of India. Therefore at this critical juncture we don’t want to make any comments that might affect their status.”
When some Indian reporters persisted on the subject, Mr. Balasingham also said no more questions would be entertained on the subject. “You are raising an issue that has happened ten years ago,” he told one reported. “It is a tragic incident and therefore we are not in a position to make any comments at this stage.”
Asked if the LTTE was prepared to forget about the war with the Indian Peace Keeping Force, Mr. Balasingham said “at a particular stage in history, the government of India wanted to help the Tamil people by resolving the problem. They mediated; and unfortunately the proposals envisaged by government did India did not satisfy the aspirations of Tamil people’s.”
“We had discussions, and expressed our disapproval and finally the contradictions between India and the LTTE led to an armed conflict, and the IPKF committed quite a lot of atrocities amongst our people,” he said.
“But yet, with all that, our people love and respect India. India and the people of India are different from the power structures or the armed apparatus of India. We are culturally and ethnically linked to the Indian subcontinent. As Tamils we have our roots in India,” he added.
When asked his opinion of the Sinhala-nationalist Janatha Vimukthi Perumana (JVP), Mr. Pirapaharan said “we do not consider the JVP a progressive political force because of their chauvinistic attitudes towards the Tamil people.”
Asked about the estate Tamil community, Mr. Pirapaharan said “We want build a better relationship with the leadership of the plantation Tamils. We have invited them here. We will discuss their concerns and problems and cooperate with them in their struggle for the political rights of the plantation Tamils.”
Mr. Pirapaharan rejected as “untenable and unacceptable” accusations the LTTE was using child soldiers. “There is no need for us at this present stage for us to recruit children. It is impossible for the LTTE to conduct an effective conventional war with child soldiers,” he said
“Recently, following the UN resolution, we have decided to recruit people from the age of 18. In future we want to recruit for the purpose of involving our youth in political and administrative purposes,” he added.
Commenting on international bans on the LTTE, Mr. Pirapaharan said “Those countries who are waging a war against terror should come out with a clear and precise definition as to who constitutes a terrorist and who are freedom fighters.
“We are not a terrorist organization, but a liberation movement. We are fighting for the liberation of our people,” he said.
Asked about prisoners of war being held by the LTTE, Mr. Balasingham said only six personnel were being held, and that the ICRC regularly visits them and has established contacts with the PoWs and their families.
When asked about the LTTE’s taxes, Mr. Pirapaharan said that “just as the Sri Lanka government taxes Sri Lankans in its controlled areas to run the state administration, to run the administration in our controlled areas, we levy a tax system.”
Asked about the LTTE’s economic philosophy, Mr. Pirapaharan said an “open market economy.” But he pointed out that: “We can only think about a proper economic structure when the ethnic problem is resolved. … What form and what structure this economic system is to be instituted in can only be worked when we have a permanent settlement or independent state.”
-ஈழம் ரஞ்சன்-
10 ஏப்ரல், பிற்பகல் 8:25 ·
By: ஈழம் ரஞ்சன்
தமிழீழ தேசியத்தலைவர் மேதகு வே.பிரபாகரன் அவர்களின் உள்ளூர் மற்றும் சர்வதேச பத்திரிகையாளர் மாநாடு.தமிழர் வரலாற்றில் முக்கியமான நாள் இன்றாகும் .-10/04/2002-
2002 ஏப்ரல் மாதத்தின் 10ம் நாள் சிங்களதேசத்தின் ஊடகங்கள் அனைத்தும், இந்தியாவின் அச்சு, ஓலி,ஒளி, இலத்திரனியல் ஊடகங்கள் முழுதும், சர்வதேசத்தின் மிக முக்கியமான ஊடக நிறுவனங்கள் எல்லாம் கிளிநொச்சியில் குழுமி இருந்தனர்.
தமிழர்களின் வரலாற்றில் ஒரு தமிழனின் செய்திக்காக அவர் சொல்லப்போகும் பதில்களுக்காக ஒரே நேரத்தில் இவ்வளவு பத்திரிகையாளர்களும் ஊடகங்களும் குழுமியது வரலாற்றில் முதலானது. அதனைவிட சிங்களதேசத்தின் அதிபர்கள் நடாத்திய எந்தவொரு ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பிலும் அதுவரை இவ்வளவு பெருந்திரளாக வந்ததே இல்லையென்றே சிங்கள ஊடகங்கள் கூட வர்ணித்திருந்தன அந்த சந்திப்பை.
இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்புக்கு தேதி குறித்த பின்னர் இது நடப்பதற்கு இரண்டு நாட்களுக்கு முன்னர் வடக்கையும் சிங்களதேசத்தையும் இணைக்கும் ஏ9 பாதை திறந்துவிடப்பட்டது.
தமிழர்களின் விடுதலைப்போராட்ட வரலாற்றில் இந்த நாள் மிக முக்கியமான நாளாகும். தமிழீழ விடுதலையின் மூலஇயக்கு சக்தியான தேசியத்தலைவர் இதற்கு முன்னர் பல்வேறு சந்தர்ப்பங்களில் பல்வேறு ஊடகவியலாளர்களுக்கு பேட்டிகள் வழங்கி இருந்தாலும் 2002 ஏப்ரல் 10ம்நாள்தான் விடுதலைப்புலிகள் தமது தலைவருடன் உலக பத்திரிகையாளர்க
ள் அனைவரும் சந்திக்கும் ஒரு பெரும் அழைப்பை விடுத்திருந்தனர்.
உலக ஊடகங்களுக்கும் இது வித்தியாசமான ஒரு அனுபவமாகவே அவர்கள் பதிந்தார்கள்.
அதுநாள் வரைக்கும் தமிழீழ விடுதலைப்புலிகளின் கொள்கைப் பிரகடனமாக, வேலைத்திட்ட அறிவிப்பாக, உலகத்துக்கு செய்தியாக உலகம் கணித்து வந்தது ஒவ்வொரு மாவீரர் நாளிலும் தேசியத்தலைவரின் குரலில் வெளிவரும் மாவீரர் உரையை வைத்துதான். முதல்முறையாக தமது சந்தேகங்களை தமது கேள்விகளை தேசியத்தலைவரிடம் நேரடியாக கேட்பதற்கு கிடைத்த இந்த சந்தர்ப்பம் முக்கியமான ஒன்றாகவே கருதப்பட்டது.
இது ஒரு புறம்இருக்க, இந்த சந்திப்பை சிங்களதேசத்தின் ஆளும்தரப்பு அவ்வளவாக மகிழ்வுடன் ஏற்றுக்கொண்டதாக இல்லை.தேசியத்தலைவரின் இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பை நேரடியாக சிங்களதேசத்தின் தேசிய தொலைக்காட்சியாக கருதப்பட்ட ரூபவாகினியில் நேரடியாக ஒளிபரப்பியே தீரவேண்டிய தவிர்க்கமுடியாத நிர்ப்பந்தமும் சிங்களத்துக்கு ஏற்பட்டது.
விடுதலைப்புலிகளை சுற்றி மர்மங்களையும் விடைகள் இல்லாத கேள்விகளையும் தொடர்ச்சியாக இருக்கவைப்பதன் மூலமே விடுதலைப்புலிகளை ஒரு பயங்கர சக்தியாக உலகின் கண்களுக்குள் தக்க வைக்கமுடியும் என்பதே சிங்களத்தின் எண்ணம்.
இத்தகைய மர்மங்கள் நீங்குவதிலோ,உலகின் கேள்விகளுக்கு விடுதலைப்புலிகள
ின் அதிஉச்சமான தலைவரே நேரடியாக பதில் வழங்குவதோ சிங்கள ஆட்சியாளர்களுக்கு பிடிப்பதமானதாக இருந்திருக்கவே முடியாது.
ஆனாலும் நிபந்தனையற்ற பேச்சுவார்த்தை,போர் நிறுத்தம்,மற்று
ம் முக்கியமாக மூன்றாம் தரப்பு மத்தியஸ்தம் என்ற நாடகத்தில் இத்தகைய அடுத்த தரப்பினரின் இத்தகைய ஊடக சந்திப்புகளை மறுப்பதோ தடை செய்வதோ முடியாது என்பதால்தான் சிங்களமும் இதற்கு ஒப்புகொள்வதாக சொல்லவேண்டி வந்தது.
ஆயுதந்தாங்கிய விடுதலைப் போராட்டத்தை முன்னெடுத்து வரும் ஒரு அமைப்பு என்ற முறையில் மாறிவரும் உலக நிலைமைகளில் தமது நிலைப்பாட்டை வெளிஉலகத்துக்கு பகிரங்கமாக அதே நேரம் முடிவுகளை எடுக்கும் ஆற்றல்மிக்க ஒரே சக்தியான தேசியத்தலைவரின் குரலில் சொல்வதற்கான சந்தர்ப்பாக இதனை கணித்திருந்தார்கள்.
அதிலும் இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பு நடப்பதற்கு சரியாக ஏழு மாதத்துக்கு முன்னர் உலகின் அனைத்து சமநிலைகளையும் ஆயுதந்தாங்கிய போராட்டங்கள் பற்றிய கணிப்புகளையும் தலைகீழாக மாற்றிய இரட்டை கோபுரச் சம்பவம் 2001 செப்படம்பர் 11ல் நிகழ்ந்தேறி இருந்தது. (இந்த கேள்வியும் தலைவரின் ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்பில் கேட்கப்பட்டது).
இராணுவ பல சமநிலையில் ஏறத்தாழ சிங்கள தேசத்துக்கு ஒப்பானதாக விடுதலைப்புலிகள் அந்நேரம் பலத்துடன் இருந்தாலும் செப்டம்பர் 11க்கு பின்னான உலகின் கேள்விகள் வித்தியாசமானதாக இருந்ததால், அதற்கு தேசிய தலைவர்தான் பதில் அளிப்பது காத்திரமானதாக இருக்கும் என்பதாலும் நடாத்தப்பட்டது.
இந்த பத்திரிகையாளர் மாநாட்டில் கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்விகளுக்கும் அதற்கான தேசியத்தலைவரின் பதில்களுக்கும் அப்பால் தேசியத்தலைவர் தன்னை நோக்கி கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்விகளை உள்வாங்கும் முறைமையும் எந்தவொரு கட்டத்திலும் உணர்ச்சி வசப்படாமல் ஒரு மிகத்தேர்ந்த தலைவனுக்கு உரிய அணுமுறையை கையாண்டதாகவே, ஒரு பழுத்த இராஜதந்திரிக்கே உரிய வார்த்தை பிரயோகங்களை வெளிப்படுத்தியதாகவுமே ஆச்சரியத்துடன் உலக ஊடகங்கள் எழுதின.
இந்த பத்திரிகையாளர் சந்திப்பு பற்றி அதில் கலந்துகொண்ட சிங்கள ஊடகவியலாளரான ரஞ்சன் பெரேரா கூறுகையில் “பிரபாகரனின் செய்தியாளர் மாநாடு வரலாறு காணாத நிகழ்வாகும். 300க்கும் மேற்பட்ட உள்நாட்டு-வெளிநாட்டு ஊடகவியலாளர்கள் மிகுந்த சிரமத்துடன் இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் மாநாட்டில் கலந்துகொண்டனர். இந்த மாநாடு மூலம் உலகில் விடுதலைப்புலிகளுக்கு இருந்த முக்கியத்துவத்தை உணரமுடிந்தது.
பிரபாகரனை பற்றிய எவ்வளவோ கதைகளும் கற்பனைகளும் பரவி இருந்தவேளையில் செய்தியாளர்கள் மாநாட்டில் மிகச் சாதாரணமாக காட்சியளித்தார். அவரது ஒவ்வொரு சொல்லும் அவரைப் பற்றிய தவறான கருத்துகளை போக்கின என்றோ சொல்ல வேண்டும்” என்று சொன்னார்.
இந்த பத்திரிகையாளர் சந்திப்பில் கேட்கப்பட்ட கேள்விகளுக்கு தலைவர் கொடுத்த பதில்கள் வெறுமனே அந்த ஊடகம் கேட்ட கேள்விக்கான பதில் என்பதாக மட்டும் இல்லாமல் அதனை பார்க்கும், கேட்கும், வாசிக்கும் உலக அரங்கிற்கு சொல்லப்பட்ட பதில்களாகவே மிகவும் அற்புதமாக அமைந்திருந்தன.
என்றுமே சிங்கள பேரிவாதம் அதன் அடக்குமுறை முகத்தை மாற்றிக்கொள்ளாது என்று வரலாற்று அனுபவங்கள் மூலம் தெரிந்து கொண்டிருந்தாலும் பிரிந்துசெல்லும் முடிவை மாற்றுவதற்கான அணுகுமுறை சிங்களத்தின் நடைமுறையில்தான் இருக்கின்றது என சொல்லி இருந்தார்.
மீண்டும் ஆயுதந்தாங்கி போராட விடுதலைப்புலிகள் போகபோகிறார்கள் என்ற கருத்தை தேசியதலைவரின் வாயால் சொல்ல வைப்பதற்காக
“பேச்சுவார்த்தை தோல்வியடைந்தால்
.?” என்று கேட்கப்பட்டபோது மிகவும் இலாவகமாக வார்த்தையை தெரிவுசெய்து
“பேச்சுவார்த்தை தோல்வியடைந்தாலும் தொடர்ந்து சமாதான முயற்சிகளை மேற்கொள்வோம்” என்று சொன்னதும்,
“பேச்சுவார்த்தையில் அதிபர் சந்திரிகா குழப்பம் ஏற்படுத்துவார் என்று நினைக்கிறீர்களா”? என்று கேட்கப்பட்டபோது சிங்களதேசத்தின் ஒரு அதிபர் தமிழ் மக்களுக்கு உரிமை கொடுப்பதற்கு எத்தகைய தடங்கல்களை கொடுப்பார் என்று தெரிந்திருந்தும்
“சந்திரிகா குழப்பம் ஏற்படுத்துவார் என்று நாங்கள் நினைக்கவில்லை.” என்பதுடன் நின்றுவிடாமல்
“அவர் அப்படி ஏதும் செய்தால் அதை பார்த்து கொள்வது ரணிலின் பொறுப்பு” என்று சொன்னதன் மூலம் பதிலிலேயே ரணிலுக்கான செய்தியையும் சொல்லி இருந்தது இன்றும் ஆச்சர்யத்துடன் நோக்கப்படுகிறது.
ஏறத்தாழ இதே மாதிரியான கேள்வி ஒன்று இந்த ஊடகவியலாளர் சந்திப்புக்கு பதினெட்டு வருடங்களுக்கு முன்னர் 1984ம் ஆண்டு மார்ச் மாதம் ‘சண்டே’ இதழுக்காக அனிதா பிரதாப்பால் கேட்கப்பட்டபோது
“ஜே.ஆர்.ஜெயவர்த்தன ஒரு உண்மையான பௌத்தனாக இருந்திருந்தால் நான் ஆயுதம் ஏந்தி இருந்திருக்க மாட்டேன்” என்று கூறியிருந்ததும் தலைவர் சிங்களதேச அதிபர்களை பார்க்கும் எப்படி பார்க்கிறார் என்று காட்டியிருந்தது.
என்னை பொறுத்தவரையில் இந்த இனத்துக்கென்று தனியான ஏதும் கைகாட்டிநூலோ,வழிகாட்டி புத்தகமோ தேவையில்லை. தேசியத்தலைவரின் அனைத்து பேட்டிகளையும் அவரது அனைத்து மாவீரர் உரைகளையும் தொகுத்தாலே அதற்குள் இந்த இனம் இப்போது செல்லவேண்டிய திசையும் பாதையும் அதற்கான பக்குவமான முறைகளும் பொதிந்து கிடக்கும்.இருள்நிறைந்த இந்நேரத்தில் அவைகளே பாதை வெளிச்சங்களாக ஒளிதரக் கூடியவை.
Hon. V. Prabhakaran : Press Conference at Killinochi 2002.
VELUPILLAI PRABHAKARAN
Press Conference at Killinochi, Tamil Eelam
10 April 2002
Tamil tiger chief Velupillai Prabhakaran answering a wide range of questions at Wednesday’s press conference said the group was not yet willing to drop the demand for a separate state, but said he was willing to consider if the demand for a Tamil homeland, Tamil nationality and Tamil rights are met.
Following are excerpts of the press conference held at the Political School of the LTTE in Kilinochchi.
Q: From the inception you have been struggling for an independent state. Are you willing to renounce that and accept any federal model.?
A: Conditions have not arisen to abandon an independent statehood. The struggle for Eelam is a demand of the Tamil people. In the 1977 elections, people have given a mandate to the TULF to fight for a separate state.
Q: How serious are you about the peace process. There has been doubt about your genuineness?
A: We are sincerely committed to the peace process. It is because we are sincerely committed to peace that we continued a four month cessation of hostilities.
Q: Since you have accepted an interim administration under the Sri Lankan government will you accept the hegemony of the Sri Lankan state?
A: We have not discussed the formalities or the framework of the interim administration . It has to be discussed with the Sri Lankan government . This does not arise since we have not started the peace process.
Q: Will you go to Thailand with this idea?
A: So far on the demand for Eelam we have not decided as yet. We are going to Thailand to discuss the interim administration as proposed by the government.
Q: What about the ban on the LTTE imposed in India ?
A: We want the government of India to lift the ban on the LTTE. We will raise the issue at the appropriate time.
Q: You have been indicted in the Gandhi assassination ?
A: This case is going on. Four persons have been convicted. They are seeking amnesty at the moment. We do not want to make any comments at this moment.
Q: Are you denying involvement in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination?
A: (Mr. Balasingham). I know this is a sensitive issue, not only for you but for us as well. You are raising an issue that happened 10 years ago. We want to have friendly relations with India.
Q: What have you to say about the charges ?
A: This is a “tragic incident.” that has taken place ten years back. We cannot comment on the issue.
Q: The Rajiv Gandhi assassination…
A: (Dr. Balasingham) You are trying to dominate the press conference. You have come here when the peace process is on. You are talking of an old incident. Do not dig into the past.
Q: Why should anyone should believe that the ceasefire will lead to peace or why the LTTE will not start fighting back as happened in the past.
A: This is the first time that a third party, Norway, has got involved as a facilitator. We believe that the peace process will work.
Q: There is widespread feeling that the reason you are speaking now is because of the action by the United States against terrorism, after the events in September 11. Do you agree with that?
A: The LTTE has initiated peace moves before the September 11 incident. Furthermore Norway’s peace envoy Erik Solheim has been given an assurance that we want a negotiated settlement.
Q: For 25 years you have been adopting a military strategy to achieve your goal, but now you seem to be embarking on a political path. Is the tiger changing its stripes ?
A: Our political struggle began in the form of non-violence. Leaders in the past believed that they can use a non-violent method. Because the non-violent methods were crushed we were forced to take up arms to defend ourselves. We were compelled to take arms. Whenever there was an opportunity we have opted to settle the problem peacefully.
Q: Is there any message you hope to give, by inviting us here today ?
A: There has been lot of misunderstanding about the LTTE. We would like to explain through the international media that the LTTE is committed to peace and a negotiated settlement.
Q: Will you allow other parties to function in the north and what do you feel about the collaboration between the Sri Lankan and US Governments ?
A: We can assure you that other political parties whatever their policies may be, will be allowed to function in the North-East and participate in the democratic political process. As far as the collaboration between the US & SL governments is concerned it is not of our concern to condemn or criticise the current global developments or the position of different political regimes. As far as we are concerned we are determined to fight for the political rights of the Tamils, irrespective of whether Sri Lanka is aligned to America or the Soviet Union or any other world power. We are committed to the emancipation of our own people.
Q: You have apologized to the Muslims but not made an open invitation for their return.
A: We have already apologized to them. If we invite them, there should be some conducive set up for them to live. Our leader will certainly extend an invitation for them to come to the north and live with us.
Q: There are reports about Muslims in the East being harassed. It is reported that they have no rights to the land.
A: We have called the service commanders from the east to discuss the alleged harassment of Muslims. We have called Karikalan for a meeting and asked him what has gone wrong. He has assured us that he has made no such statement and it is a distortion. We believe that the Tamil homeland belongs to the Muslim people and we believe that there is no dispute that Muslims have a right to own land. When Mr. Hakeem comes we will discuss the matter.
Q: You say you will allow political parties to function in the north and east. How can you seriously say so when the LTTE has assassinated Tamil moderates ?
A: We do not want to go into details, as there have been contradictions between Tamil parties in the past. Now almost all the Tamil parties in the north and east are supporting the LTTE. There are some Tamil armed groups that we do not consider as political entities as such, but as mercenaries and they support the Sri Lanka armed forces against the LTTE. So we have requested that the armed groups be disarmed. Now the situation is almost that all parties that contested in the north & east are supporting the LTTE. In future there will be no problems. We will allow the genuine democratic Tamil parties to function in the north-east as democratic entities.
Q: Are you ready to give up your armed struggle and if not why?
A; We will seriously consider renouncing the armed struggle if a solution acceptable to our people is worked out.
Q: Upcountry youth have been in custody for several years, what about these people. But no leaders are taking any action.
A: We have been constantly campaigning for the release of these prisoners. Most of them are suspected LTTE members. They are kept without any trial. We have requested Tamil parties to agitate for their release and we are going to appeal to the government to repeal the PTA.
Q: What are the conditions that you say would be right for you to give up your armed struggle? Can you please explain the impact of the ban on your organization throughout the world?
A: There are three fundamentals. That is Tamil homeland, Tamil nationality and Tamil right to self-determination. These are the fundamental demands of the Tamil people. Once these demands are accepted or a political solution is put forward by recognising these three fundamentals and our people are satisfied with the solutions we will consider giving up the demand for Eelam.
It is true that several countries have imposed the ban due to the malicious campaign by the Sri Lanka government against the LTTE. It is because of these reasons we have appealed to the government of Sri Lanka to de-proscribe our organization before the commencement of negotiations. Once our organization is de-proscribed we will campaign in the rest of the world to get the ban lifted in the rest of the world.
Q: Will Mr. Pirabaharan accept any responsibility under the Interim administration?
A: We haven’t started any dialogue about an interim administration. When that arises I will think whether to accept any responsibility or not.
Q: Will you allow Muslim participation in the peace process?
A: Certainly we will allow Muslim representation in the peace process as it is crucial.
Q: You said the Gandhi assassination was a tragic incident. How do you look at other tragic incidents. Are you satisfied with the pace of the peace process. Also what is your greatest military victory?
A: I am pleased with the peace process and also want to compliment Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe for the action he has taken to proceed with the peace process and the goodwill measures taken in the north-east towards normalcy.
Q: There have been incidents in the past that led to your proscription. What would be your message to the other side that would be incidents of the past.
A: (Dr. Balasingham). I have openly said that we want to have friendly relationships with India and that we want a positive participation of India in the peace process. I myself openly requested India to give me a venue so that I can land in India, for two reasons. One is for logistical reasons and the other for medical reasons. I am a transplant patient. I have a serious kidney ailment and if India provides me with a passage or venue to land in any of the cities in Tamil Nadu, I will be pleased. I have to come and consult Mr. Pirabaharan if the peace process is initiated. India’s active participation in the peace process is crucial for the Tamil people because India is a regional super power. Since India was not taking any active interest in the process, the government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE have requested the Norwegian government to play a facilitatory role. It is not to isolate or alienate India from playing an active role.
Q: Have you directly requested the Indian government?
A: We have requested Norway to make the request. They (India) have not rejected our request, but still it is on the agenda.
Q: Mr. Pirabaharan, you are said to have told your cadres that if you give up the demand for Tamil Eelam, you can be shot. Does that statement stand?
A: That statement stands.
Q: How do you plan to respond to allegations of human rights violations and recruitment of child soldiers now that the LTTE is keen to be an acceptable member of the global community?
A: The allegation that we are recruiting children is untenable and unacceptable. We have decided to recruit people over 18. The people below 18 who came to join us were sent back to their parents and we are collecting letters from their parents. There is no need at this present stage to recruit children. It is impossible for the LTTE to conduct an effective war with children or a baby brigade. We have child welfare centres and orphanages to look after children.
Q: You have been living an underground life and you may be frustrated with the underground life . Is that the reason to come out?
A: We are not the people who are worried about the underground life or a strenuous life . We are prepared to fight for the political rights of our people.
Q: Are you ready to take up a political responsibility?
A: We have been fighting this guerrilla war for the liberation of our people – for the welfare of our people. Therefore we are not concerned about our personal political life. That is a secondary matter where I have not seriously thought about accepting a political position or a political leadership in the future. Even now we are engaged in this press briefing because we are really concerned about peace and a peaceful settlement of the ethnic war. It is our genuine concern for the welfare of our people that has made us get involved in the current peace process.
Q The question is about working within the democratic system. Would Mr. Pirabaharan be ready to do so rather than head a military outfit.
A: The solution is within the democratic, political framework . Our organisation will seriously participate in that process and our cadres will also involve themselves in the political mainstream.
Q: What do you mean by self determination. You say you are fighting for the right of your people based on the right for self determination, therefore, what do you mean by self determination?
A: By self determination we mean the right of our people to decide their own political destiny It can also mean /apply to autonomy and self government. If autonomy and self government is given to our people, then also we can say that the internal self determination is to some extent met. But if the Sri Lankan government rejects our demands for autonomy and self government and continues with repression, then as a last resort we would opt for cessation. That also comes under self determination. So self determination entails autonomy and self government. In an extreme case, in the last resort, it means cessation. Therefore we say, if the Sri Lankan government offers the Tamil people the form of self government and autonomy in recognition of our nationality and also the right to self determination then we will consider that offer. But if the government refuses to give us proper autonomy, proper self government and continue with this repression, then we have no other alternative but to fight for political independence and statehood. That is our perspective.
Q; What will you do if the government finally betrays you or if these talks collapse?
A: As far as we are concerned we have faith in the present government and we will continue to work with this government until a solution is reached. We cannot answer hypothetical questions.
Q: Do I understand you right that the events of September 11 and the international focus on terrorism has not changed your strategy and thinking at all. Have you not had cause to reassess the value of suicide bombing on civilian targets and assassinations in the light of September 11th?
A: We have issued an official statement condemning the incident of September 11th. We strongly condemn this act of violence perpetrated on innocent civilians under the name of a religion which advocates peace. Since we have adopted a peace process and that now we are committed to peace, we don’t want to make any comments about suicide attacks at this stage.
Q: You wanted the government to make a second proposal. What is your formula/vision ?
A: We have made a statement saying that a formula has to be worked out based on the Tamil demand for a homeland, nationality and self determination. We want a framework which recognises this fundamental core issue. It is on that basis that we are requesting the government to put forward a counter proposal and if the counter proposal envisages or embodies these demands and offer a substantive solution that satisfies the aspirations of our people, we will seriously or favourably consider such a framework .
Q: Do you think that the Ranil government can offer such a solution?
A: We don’t think Ranil Wickremesinghe is capable of addressing the core issues and offer us a permanent solution at this stage because you know executive powers are vested with the President and his powers are limited to Parliament. It is because of that, that we are suggesting the formation of an interim administrative set up so that we can run an administration in the N/E. The LTTE can participate in an interim administration in the N/E. In the meantime, Ranil Wickremesinghe will have enough space to build up southern Sri Lanka economically. So it will be advantageous for the Tamils as well as the Sinhalese to work out an interim set up for the time being. Once the interim set up is established then we are prepared to discuss the core issue and negotiate for a permanent settlement of the ethnic question. But we wish to insist that Ranil’s government is not politically stable or authoritative or powerful enough to take up the core demands of the Tamils and offer us a permanent solution.
Q: Do you think Chandrika Kumaratunga will scuttle the process?
A: We don’t anticipate that President Kumaratunga will create any serious difficulties for the peace process. Even if she tries to scuttle the peace process, its up to Ranil Wickremesinghe to ensure that such difficulties doesn’t arise and he should act in such a way that this process succeeds.
Q. How do you expect us to believe that you are genuine about pursuing democracy allowing other Tamil parties to survive in this area, when you spent your entire career sending suicide bombers to kill democratically elected politicians. And even today, we’re being filmed surrounded by goons. And you have the whole appearance of a military dictator. How do you expect us to take you seriously ?
A: We’re going to meet four Tamil political parties the day after tomorrow. These are the political parties, which once upon a time had serious differences with our political organisation. Now the whole scenario has changed and we’re inviting them to talk and discuss about various issues. If we are an authoritarian organisation trying to repress other political organisations, there is no need for us to call them and discuss. Similarly we’re calling the Muslim leadership and the plantation leadership also. So therefore the times have changed and we are adopting new strategies. Please understand.
The Wanni is an area controlled by the LTTE. There are security issues, there are security concerns. In the past you would have heard that there has been deep penetration groups who have penetrated into this areas and killed several of our senior leaders. So we have intensified our security systems here to protect our leadership. So today Mr. Pirabaharan is attending this conference. You are here, we have to ensure that no acts of violence or any disturbance takes place. Therefore we have allowed the Tamil police officers to guard these areas. So it doesn’t mean this security system indicates an authoritative system as such. In Colombo you will have far more intensive security arrangements when such events take place.
Q: There are so many countries. Why did you go far away and choose Norway as a facilitator ?
A: Norway is reputed for resolving international conflicts. Norway has undertaken peace missions in several countries. And secondly, it is the Government of Sri Lanka which opted for Norwegian facilitation and we decided that Norway would be an appropriate facilitator because of its neutrality and it has no strategic interest in this region.
Q: Has Norway facilitated or brought about a settlement with regard to the Palestinian issue. Now the Palestinian-Israeli problem is hotting up. Don’t you think that the Tamil problem will also end up in chaos if Norway initiated this peace process.
A: In the peace process there are times when difficulties arise and even peace talks collapse and war breaks out as we have experienced in the past. But that doesn’t mean we should give up our pursuit for peace and political settlement. We know the Palestinian problem had got into serious difficulties. But our problem is entirely different. At the same time, we want to use the Norwegian facilitation to engage in the peace process in Sri Lanka and we hope that this peace process will succeed.
Q: Will you (Mr. Pirabaharan) participate in talks in Thailand, because the Interpol representative was in Sri Lanka and he said that the Indian government has requested them to arrest Pirabaharan. So I want to know, in this situation, what is the answer. Will he be there ?
A: Mr. Balasingham will be the Chief Negotiator and he will be participating in the peace process. Even now we’re going to talk about the interim administration, not about a permanent solution. When peace talks for a permanent solution take place, we have to think about my participation. An the same time, Mr. Balasingham will visit me now and then from Thailand to consult on the formulation of this interim administration set up. So I’m not going to Thailand to engage in this current negotiation which will be confined only to the formulation of an interim set up.
Q. My question was re Interpol. India has requested the Interpol to arrest. What is your stand ?
A: We don’t want to make any comments on that, because we are still waiting for a positive response from the Government of India with regard to at least a passage through India for Mr. Balasingham to come from London and meet me. And I think the Government of India will favourably consider in the coming days by offering a passage for Mr. Balasingham to visit the Wanni. That’s all we can say.
Q: Will the peace talks take place after the de-proscription of the LTTE or not ?
A: Only after the de-proscription will we participate in the peace process.
Q. Does Mr. Pirabaharan fear America’s intervention if the peace process collapses.
A: I don’t consider that America will intervene in this conflict, if the present peace process collapses.
Q: Do you mean to say that talks in Thailand will be held only after the LTTE is de-proscribed?
A: Yes, that is our position. We have informed the government, we have told the Norwegians that de-proscription is a necessary condition for the commencements of talks.
Q: Will you settle for a suspended de-proscription
?
A: No. We want to be de-proscribed properly and the Prevention of Terrorism Act has to be properly amended so that we have to be de-proscribed and accepted as the authentic representative of our people, so that we participate in the peace process as the representative of our people with equal status. That has been our official position.
Q: Is the LTTE using the ceasefire as an opportunity to re-arm?
A: It is during the armed conflict that we were able to amass a large quantity of weapons and it is during peace time that we are deprived of that opportunity. During the battle of Elephant Pass we were able to acquire a large quantity of arms worth millions of rupees and also ammunition in large amounts. It is during the peace process that we are deprived of this opportunity.
Q: What does Mr. Pirabaharan consider as the greatest LTTE victory ?
A: I consider the government’s attempts to open up the A9 highway by military means. We defeated the armed forces in this military engagement, which is a major success that the LTTE has achieved so far.
Q. Which military general does Mr. Pirabaharan remember the most ? And for what?
A: I don’t consider any particular general as posing a serious challenge to the LTTE.
A journalist tries to thank the LTTE for organising this press conference and journalists shout asking him to sit down.
Q. What makes you think this ceasefire agreement will succeed when previous ones have failed?
A: Compared to the past ceasefire agreements this one is different for two reasons. One is that it is facilitated by a third party – the Norwegians. Secondly Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe is seriously and sincerely committed to peace and therefore appropriate conditions are available now for a permanent and stable peace than in the past.
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Pirapaharan commits to peace, self determination
It was reportedly the largest media event ever held in the island. The scale of the international and local media interest reflected the impact Mr. Vellupillai Pirapaharan has on Sri Lanka’s politics. His first press conference in over a decade – announced just a week in advance – drew almost six hundred reporters, photographers and cameramen from around the world to the war devastated town of Kilinochchi.
Flanked by the LTTE’s chief negotiator and political strategist, Mr. Anton Balasingham, Mr. Thamil Chelan, head of the LTTE’s political section and – unexpectedly – by two of his top commanders, Col. Karuna and Col. Pathuman, Mr. Pirapaharan fielded questions for over two and a half sometimes chaotic hours. Mr. Balasingham translated English questions and all of Mr. Pirapaharan’s responses for the benefit of the international press. As the LTTE’s chief negotiator and political strategist he also fielded questions or expanded on Mr. Pirapaharan’s responses.
As indicated on the movement’s press release announcing the conference, Mr. Pirapaharan spoke at length on the Norwegian peace initiative.
“I am very, very, pleased with the development of the peace process and I want to compliment Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe for the bold action he has taken to promote [this] and the goodwill measures in the north east,” he said.
“We want to use the Norwegian facilitation to engage … with Sri Lanka and we hope that [the peace process] will succeed,” he said. “We are sincerely and seriously committed to peace.”
Dismissing accusations the LTTE was insincere about peace and that the Tigers were under pressure due to the international war on terrorism, Mr. Pirapaharan pointed out his organisation had, among other moves, unilaterally observed a ceasefire for four months early last year. (The truce was rejected by Sri Lanka.)
“The LTTE has undertaken peace initiatives before the September 11th,” he said. “[Apart from the unilateral truce], I met with the Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim [ In Nov 1999]and gave him an assurance that the LTTE wanted peace and a negotiated political settlement.”
When asked if the ‘Tiger was changing its stripes’ as the LTTE was now adopting a political path after 25 years of armed struggle, Mr. Pirapaharan said “Our political struggle for the Tamil people began in the form of non violence., through peaceful methods. … It is because these non violent peaceful agitations were crushed by military means, by repression, that we were forced to take up arms to defend ourselves.”
“It is because of the objective conditions, the historic conditions that we were compelled to take up arms but whenever there were opportunities for peace in the past, we have opted for peaceful methods to resolve these problems,” he said further.
When asked about reports of violations of the indefinite ceasefire by the LTTE, Mr. Pirapaharan said the monitoring committee has not lodged any complaints or accusations that we have violated the terms of the ceasefire.
The LTTE leaders reiterated that the proscription of the LTTE would have to be lifted before they would participate in imminent negotiations in Thailand. They stressed they would not accept a temporary suspension of the ban.
“We want to be described properly. And the PTA has to be amended,” Mr. Balasingham said. “We want to be accepted as the authentic representatives of our people, so we can participate in talks with equal status.”
When asked if he would now renounce the independent state the LTTE has been fighting for and accept an alternative, Mr. Pirapaharan said “the right conditions have not arisen for the LTTE to abandon the policy of an independent statehood.”
“So far as the demand for Eelam is concerned , the LTTE has not made any decision so far as whether to give up the demand or accept an alternative,” Mr. Pirapaharan said.
“The struggle for political independence and statehood, the struggle for Tamil Eelam, is the demand of the Tamil people, not the LTTE as such,” he said further, stating that the popular endorsement given in 1977 by the electorate to the Tamil United Liberation Front’s independent state policy underpinned the LTTE’s objectives.
When queried as to what the LTTE required for a solution to be acceptable, Mr. Pirapaharan said: “There are three fundamentals; that is Tamil homeland, Tamil nationality and Tamil right to self-determination.”
“Once these fundamentals are accepted or a political solution is put forward by Sri Lanka recognizing these three fundamentals and if our people are satisfied with the framework of a solution that recognises these core issues then, we will consider giving up the demand for Eelam,” he said.
When queried what the LTTE meant by self-determination, Mr. Balasingham, in his capacity as the movement’s theoretician, replied: “we mean the right of people to decide their own political destiny – it can also apply to autonomy and self governance.”
“If autonomy and self governance is given to our people we can say that internal self-determination is to some extent met,” he said. “But if the Sri Lanka government rejects our demand for autonomy and self governance and continues with repression, then as a last resort we will opt for cessation – that also comes under self-determination.”
“Therefore we say if the Sri Lanka government offers the Tamil people a form of self government and autonomy in recognition of our homeland, nationality and the right to self-determination, then we will consider that offer,” Mr. Balasingham said further.
When asked if the LTTE would give up the armed struggle following a permanent solution, Mr. Pirapaharan said: “We will seriously consider renouncing our armed struggle if a solution acceptable to the people is worked out.”
However the LTTE leaders cautioned that the Wickremesinghe government was not stable and that it lacked sufficient leverage to solve the ethnic problem. A proposed interim administration would permit the de-escalation of the conflict, while allowing the newly elected government leeway to strengthen its position, they said.
“We do not think that Ranil Wickremesinghe is capable of addressing the core issues and offer us a permanent solution at this stage; because the executive powers of governance are vested with the president and his powers are limited to parliament,” Mr. Pirapaharan said.
“But we wish to insist that the Ranil’s government is not politically stable or authoritative or powerful enough to take up the core demands of the Tamils and offer us a permanent solution,” the LTTE leader stated.
“But, it is because of that we are suggesting the formulation of an interim administration set up in which the LTTE can participate in the north east. In the meantime Ranil Wickremesinghe will have enough space to build up southern Sri Lanka economically,” he said.
“As far as we are concerned we have faith in the present government and we will continue to work with [it] until a solution is reached,” Mr. Balasingham said.
Mr. Pirapaharan said he did not think President Chandrika Kumaratunga could derail the peace process. “Even if she tries to scuttle the peace process it is up to Ranil Wickremesinghe to ensure that such difficulties do not arise and ensure the peace process succeeds.”
Elaborating on the interim administration, Mr. Pirapaharan said the LTTE’s negotiators, led by Mr. Balasingham “are going to Thailand with the objective of discussing the formation of an interim administration.”
“The functions and duties of the interim government, the distribution of power, are issues that we have to discuss . So we cannot comment on the structure and nature of the interim administration now,” he said further.
On being asked if the LTTE would allow other Tamil political parties to operate, Mr. Pirapaharan said: “We can assure you that other political parties – whatever their policies may be – will be allowed to function in the north east and participate in the democratic electoral process.”
When asked why that assurance should be accepted, the LTTE leader pointed out “we are going to meet four Tamil political parties in two days. These are the parties once upon a time that had serious contradictions with our organisation. Now the whole scenario has changed and we are inviting them here to talk and discuss about various issues.”
“If we are an authoritarian organisation trying to repress other political organisations, there is no need for us to call them and with discuss with them. Similarly we are calling the Muslim leadership and the plantation Tamils’ leadership also,” he said. “Therefore the time has change and we are adopting new strategies.”
The LTTE leaders reiterated the movement’s earlier requests to the Indian government for a renewed, friendly relationship. “Without India’s active support and sympathy, this [ethnic] problem will not find a permanent settlement,” Mr. Balasingham said. “India’s active participation in the peace process is crucial for the Tamil people. … We don’t want to alienate or isolate India in the peace process.”
Mr. Pirapaharan refused to comment on the Rajiv Gandhi issue, point out that “this case is going on. There are four persons who have been condemned to death. They are seeking an amnesty from the government of India. Therefore at this critical juncture we don’t want to make any comments that might affect their status.”
When some Indian reporters persisted on the subject, Mr. Balasingham also said no more questions would be entertained on the subject. “You are raising an issue that has happened ten years ago,” he told one reported. “It is a tragic incident and therefore we are not in a position to make any comments at this stage.”
Asked if the LTTE was prepared to forget about the war with the Indian Peace Keeping Force, Mr. Balasingham said “at a particular stage in history, the government of India wanted to help the Tamil people by resolving the problem. They mediated; and unfortunately the proposals envisaged by government did India did not satisfy the aspirations of Tamil people’s.”
“We had discussions, and expressed our disapproval and finally the contradictions between India and the LTTE led to an armed conflict, and the IPKF committed quite a lot of atrocities amongst our people,” he said.
“But yet, with all that, our people love and respect India. India and the people of India are different from the power structures or the armed apparatus of India. We are culturally and ethnically linked to the Indian subcontinent. As Tamils we have our roots in India,” he added.
When asked his opinion of the Sinhala-nationalist Janatha Vimukthi Perumana (JVP), Mr. Pirapaharan said “we do not consider the JVP a progressive political force because of their chauvinistic attitudes towards the Tamil people.”
Asked about the estate Tamil community, Mr. Pirapaharan said “We want build a better relationship with the leadership of the plantation Tamils. We have invited them here. We will discuss their concerns and problems and cooperate with them in their struggle for the political rights of the plantation Tamils.”
Mr. Pirapaharan rejected as “untenable and unacceptable” accusations the LTTE was using child soldiers. “There is no need for us at this present stage for us to recruit children. It is impossible for the LTTE to conduct an effective conventional war with child soldiers,” he said
“Recently, following the UN resolution, we have decided to recruit people from the age of 18. In future we want to recruit for the purpose of involving our youth in political and administrative purposes,” he added.
Commenting on international bans on the LTTE, Mr. Pirapaharan said “Those countries who are waging a war against terror should come out with a clear and precise definition as to who constitutes a terrorist and who are freedom fighters.
“We are not a terrorist organization, but a liberation movement. We are fighting for the liberation of our people,” he said.
Asked about prisoners of war being held by the LTTE, Mr. Balasingham said only six personnel were being held, and that the ICRC regularly visits them and has established contacts with the PoWs and their families.
When asked about the LTTE’s taxes, Mr. Pirapaharan said that “just as the Sri Lanka government taxes Sri Lankans in its controlled areas to run the state administration, to run the administration in our controlled areas, we levy a tax system.”
Asked about the LTTE’s economic philosophy, Mr. Pirapaharan said an “open market economy.” But he pointed out that: “We can only think about a proper economic structure when the ethnic problem is resolved. … What form and what structure this economic system is to be instituted in can only be worked when we have a permanent settlement or independent state.”
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10 ஏப்ரல், பிற்பகல் 8:25 ·
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