TNA says it cannot support Mr. Rajapaksa beause of alleged human rights abuses

The leader of the TNA, which is an alliance of ethnic Tamil parties, said they could not back Mr Rajapaksa because of alleged human rights abuses by the government and its inability to achieve reconciliation between the Tamil and the Sinhalese communities.

Leader of the TNA, R.Sambanthan told media on Wednesday that the party has decided to back Gen Sarath Fonseka, instead.

He said this decision was taken following consultations with religious leaders, scholars, and youth in the north and east.

He called upon Tamil speaking people to support General Sarath Fonseka in the presidential elections.

“My request from all Sri Lankans is to vote for General Sarath Fonseka,” he said.

High Security Zone

Responding to a question, Mr.Sambanthan said that General Sarath Fonseka has an understanding of the High Security Zone (HSZ) and has agreed to work out a possible plan to open it.

Mr.Sambanthan said that TNA has lost its interest in the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) formed to bring about a solution to the national question.

He said President Rajapaksa has failed to fulfil his pledge given to world leaders that he will implement the recommendations of the APRC.

Mr.Sambanthan said that he had satisfactory talks with Gen.Fonseka, who has expressed the view that a decision on this matter be taken following discussions with other parties.