Friday, 28 September 2007

The Defence Spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said that the President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the highest international forum- the UN, aired that terrorism has to be eradicated in the interest of human society but that the manner in which it has to be eradicated is still not determined.

Minister Rambukwella stated this toady addressing the weekly media briefing on the current defence situation.

As the head of state and commander of the three forces and the Police he has given certain direction to defeat terrorism in Sri Lanka. When the LTTE exaggerated their capabilities making the world believe they are the most powerful and ruthless terrorist force in the world it was incumbent and mandatory on him to protect the sovereignty of the state and lives of the civilian population.

By the policy adopted by the Government particularly in the last one and half years it was able to liberate Tamil, Muslim, and Sinhala population in the areas threatened by LTTE tyranny.

Using basic Human Rights as a tool the LTTE thought it was the only way out for them to win the support of the international community. But the fact is that LTTE has not only violated Human Rights but also killed their own people. Minister further added that in Geneva basic Human Right issue was not taken as a decisive one or making it a political weapon in favour of terrorism.

“Human Rights issue is too vulnerable to be mixed up with a political agenda.” Minster said. The Government had a definite role to play in liberating the people from the crutches of terrorism. Some still continue to use Human Rights, knowingly or unknowingly, willing or unwillingly to canvas for the cause of the LTTE. “Human Rights aspects are too noble to be mixed up with terrorism. It has to be addressed separately” he said.

Government’s stand is while having utmost respect to deal with Human Rights violations it can not let it be diluted in dealing with terrorism. Government is prepared to accept the consequences and deal with the consequences in relieving or liberating its citizens whether Tamil, Muslims or Sinhalese.

Minister echoed that “I say with pride and conviction, President’s massage at the UN on terrorism was well received.” The Minister reiterated clearly and emphatically that the final settlement in the North East situation should be political and a negotiated one.

Our negotiations would be not only with the LTTE where Prabhakaran decides who is going to rule in Colombo but also with all parties at a round table of discussion as All Party Representatives Committee (APRC). Negotiations would be open with out compromising any of our citizen and their rights.