The outcome of election 2001 is firm and conclusive. Millions are relieved and celebrating, yet thousands are weeping and wondering. The poll will be long remembered as the bloodiest ever, for poll related violence reached an unprecedented 2000 mark on Election Day, and ever rising. The massacre of ten youths at Udathalawinne, in the Kandy district on December 5th stands out as the most heinous crime committed during an election.

Violence was widespread in the Kandy district and was not restricted to a particular area or a particular community. The perpetrators were targeting UNP supporters. Mr. Hakeem’s alleged statement that they were targeting the Muslim community in particular is baseless and misleading. It is reported that certain prominent Muslims of the area were also among the attackers. In another statement, Mr. Hakeem says that the ten youths have sacrificed their lives, among other matters to help him retain his parliamentary seat. These youths who happened to be Muslims were strong activists of Mr. Hakeem and his newly formed alliance. The youths were not espousing any Muslim cause, rather they were engaged in politics.

While the Udathalawinne incident has earned the wrath of all sections of society, notably the Buddhist clergy in and around the Hill Country, Mr. Hakeem’s attempt to give a communal twist to the entire episode is unacceptable. It also poses a serious threat to inter ethnic harmony in an already volatile situation.

To add to the woe, an SLMC press release (Sunday Leader Dec. 9) states, that those who were killed on Dec. 5th will be considered as "martyrs" as they have sacrificed their lives for the sake of the party. The party referred to remains unclear. However "martyrdom" is too abused a term today.

Mr. Hakeem is claiming the youths have sacrificed their lives for his cause. It is now Mr. Hakeem’s turn and moral duty to give meaning to their sacrifices. To make their sacrifices worthwhile, so as to benefit the entire nation. The best he can do is to put the nation before self and support the present government unconditionally, in its all out effort to make Sri Lanka a peaceful and prosperous nation. Above all, there is an urgent need to bring the alleged attackers and their leaders to justice.

Justice not only must be done, but also must appear to be done. The full blown up picture that appeared in newspapers recently of Mr. Hakeem exchanging pleasantries with a former minister at whom he pointed his accusing finger has raised many an eyebrow. True parliamentary tradition is that you are bitter rivals inside and be best of buddies outside.

A concerned voter