Left Front urges proper devolution of power for the minorities

Dr. Vickramabahu Karunaratne, leader of the Left Front, told journalists on Monday that none of the leading candidates will respect the rights of minorities.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his former military commander, Gen Sarath Fonseka, are the two leading candidates for the 26 January presidential elections.

Both have promised to 'go beyond' the 13 amendment to the constitution in finding a political solution to the national question.

Minorities' rights

"That is a lie. They won't even implement the 13 amendment. Both parties were in power for a long time never wanted to offer any solution for the minorities," Dr. Karunaratne said.

I am calling for both the main candidates to be tried for war crimes. So, why should anyone of them be helping me? Independent candidate MK Sivajilingam

The 13th amendment to the constitution proposes devolution of power to provinces.

However, provincial politicians of both the ruling and opposition parties have criticised police and land powers not being handed over.

The Left Front presidential candidate added that the amendment is not a solution and a proper devolution of power is needed for the minorities.

He was joined at the press conference by the only Tamil presidential candidate, MK Shivajilingam.

The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) parliamentarian categorically denied accusations that he is being funded by President Rajapaksa to divide anti government votes.

"I am calling for both the main candidates to be tried for war crimes. So, why should anyone of them be helping me?" asked Mr. Shivajilingam.