By Sandun A. Jayasekera in Chavakachcheri
President Mahinda Rajapaksa said yesterday that the government had no intention of taking advice from Europe or any other power to resolve the country’s problems.Addressing an election rally in Kilinochchci in support of the UPFA candidates contesting the local government elections in Jaffna, he said, “We do not intend to get advice from Europe or any other power to resolve our problems.
We have the capability to find answers in a cordial and peaceful manner. The government expects to resolve the problems through dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding. Sitting together and listening to each other, we can discuss any matter and resolve any conflict.”
He also said that the government would apply ‘Compassionate Justice’ when dealing with the Tamil youths who were detained for alleged involvement in terrorist activities while all the others would be integrated into society after rehabilitation.
“A majority of ex-LTTE combatants have been rehabilitated, given skills development training and released as law abiding citizens. Some of them have even found employment abroad and many others in various parts of the country. Tamil youth engage in their day to day activities with much enthusiasm and they enjoy their new found freedom and the sense of security,” he said.
He said, “It is sad to note that certain people exploit political issues to their advantage and attempt to mislead innocent Tamil youths and lead them to destruction once again. However, the government is confident that they will not fall prey to these treacherous elements. These people are conducting a disinformation campaign against Sri Lanka, highlighting Tamil grievances while having a good time in Europe with all luxuries at their disposal.”
The government is aware that the Tamil community, the young generation in particular, has undergone immense hardships under terrorism for 30 years. The government is doing its best to help them and has launched a huge development programme. The government has allocated the largest amount of state funds to the northern province.