Monks urge dissidents to strike deal with nationalistic groups

Political sources believe reconciliation between dissident Parliamentary Group Leader Wimal Weerawansa, MP, and the JVP seem unlikely.

The break-up had all the markings of being permanent, the sources said, asserting that the JVP wouldn’t seek a negotiated settlement with Weerawansa.

Although JVP leader Somawansa Amarasinghe declared the party would give Weerawansa an opportunity to explain his conduct, The Island learns the leadership was determined to bring the Colombo District MP to his knees. Amarasinghe on Wednesday accused Weerawansa of working to a private agenda which suited President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s Government.

Meanwhile Ven. Bengamuwe Nalaka thero, General Secretary of Deshapremi Bhikku Peramuna and Omare Kassapa, General Secretary of Ruhunurata Bhikku Peramuna, have urged Weerawansa to take over the party. They also urged the MP to join forces with the Patriotic National Front, Manel Mal Viyaparaya and other nationalist organisations.

In a letter sent to Weerawansa, the monks, while condemning the party for relieving him of his responsibilities, urged him to support the SLFP-led ruling coalition at the first ever elections to the Eastern Provincial Council. They emphasised the importance of preserving the identity of the JVP even if he backed the ruling alliance at the elections.

Warning him of dire consequences if he remained with the group responsible for the crisis, they pledged their continued support if he remained a patriot.