The letter that was published in your Journal the above caption, on the loth December Edition written by "NACHOLIBRE" is quite interesting. It should be read by all citizens who value an independent Sri-Lanka, specially at this crucial stage when our very existence as a Nation with a 2550 years history is challenged by a foreign power.

To start with, let us all congratulate the Army Commander General Fonseka for saying call spade a spade’ and also record a word of appreciation to this writer who has put the relevant facts in lucid terms and added that these politicos are comedians as well, besides being political jokers. Whether the Army Commander has made a statement that these politicians receive money from ME, is subject to correction, but if he has said so, I am sure that the erudite Commander has valid evidence to back his allegation. Clearly, this is not the time to explode such an issue as we want friendly thoughts from Delhi. In hindsight we cannot forget the previous allegations made by authoritative quarters that ME has thrown dollars at many of the politicians in the West, including Norway who was their saviour to receive favours!

A reserved apology from the Defence Secretary was most opportune without allowing it to further escalate the feelings between the two countries.

In spite of my observations made above, 1 tend to disagree with the Army Commander and "NACHOLIBRE" that these politicians are mere political jokers. They are certainly not, but a vicious lot having long term plans for secession from the Republic of India.

No Eelam in Sri-Lanka means that it is extremely difficult for them to declare Unilateral Independence of Tamil-Nadu and survive! They do not want Prabakaran destroyed simply because they want Eelam in Sri Lanka with Prabakaran’s macabre methods. Then only will a "Dravidastan" encompassing North East of Sri-Lanka become a possibility, although it is a distant dream. 1 am sure that Indian Leaders are well aware of the secessionist moves of these jokers and it is hoped that Mrs. Sonia Gandhi and Mr. Singh will not fall into their trap.

From the Sri Lankan perspective 1 think that we should not ‘rock the boat’ at this stage. In this light, the General’s comments, although factual, may be not in the best interests of Sri-Lanka, until the North is cleared and a Civil Administration is established.