ISGA: more of a final solution than an interim arrangement — CP

The LTTE’s proposal for an "Interim Self-Governing Authority" appears to be more in the nature of a final solution than an interim arrangement. The proposed structure taken in its entirety has the character of a blueprint for separation rather than that of an alternative proposal. Dew Gunsekera, general secretary of the Communist Party said on Tuesday.

"The LTTE’s approach is not likely to help the creation of the background necessary for national reconciliation," he said.

"The government should proceed to reactivate the peace process to reach a negotiated political solution. It must prevail upon the setting up of an interim arrangement that would meet the aspirations of the Tamil people while safeguarding the rights and interests of the Muslims and Sinhalese living in the North-East, with the objective of reaching a solution that would preserve the integrity of the country and the unity of its people. In the process, it should strive to adopt a bi-partisan approach and develop a consensus among all parties concerned. The government should depart from its present strategy of prolonging the talks indefinitely, taking advantage of the existing ceasefire in pursuance of its own political agenda.

The Political Bureun of the Communist Party of Sri Lanka will make a comprehensive statement in regard to the LTTE proposals, very shortly."