by
Arthur Wamanan

(Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprises Douglas Devananda reiterated the government was committed to a meaningful implementation of the 13th Amendment accusing the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) of misleading the people. In an interview to The Nation Devananda alleged the TNA continued to make the same mistakes as it had done in the past by misinforming the public and blinding them to reality.)

Following are excerpts of the interview:

Q: Why is it difficult for Tamil political parties to come to an agreement on some sort of a framework as a solution to the ethnic problem?

These Tamil political parties are only doing what they have been doing in the past. They are not genuine towards solving the problems. They are scared that they would not have a political future if the problems are solved. They thrive on problems and look to sustain them. Their intention is to aggravate the problems.

We opted for armed struggle because there was reason and need to do so. We should have put an end to armed struggles after the Indo-Lanka Accord. But it did not happen so. It had to end at Mulliavaikkal.
The situation before the Indo-Lanka Accord was different. There were changes in the governments’ approaches after the accord. We had the chances to find permanent solutions. All were lost due to the Tamil political parties and their leadership. Everyone from Premadasa to Ranil Wickremesinghe tried to solve the problem. But the Tamil leadership spoilt each and every chance.

We were the people who were campaigning for the 13th Amendment. But these Tamil leaders ridiculed us and the 13th Amendment saying it was outdated and was of no use.
Even the Tamil media mislead the people. These politicians work towards triggering the emotions of the people using the media. They do not let the people think practically.

Q: What is the fate of the 13th Amendment?

The government is looking to make changes in the 13th Amendment. In his speech in Parliament, the President has said that a change in the prevailing Provincial Council system is necessary to make devolution more meaningful for the people. This is what he has been implying by 13+.

Q: There have been several remarks of repealing the 13th Amendment. Members of the government also had expressed such views. At the same time, the President had reiterated on a 13+. Can you explain this?

This government consists of many parties. They will have their own views. But what matters is the stance of the President, and his decision. He has not mentioned of repealing the 13th Amendment. He has only said of the importance of improving it. The people don’t need to be confused. Majority of the government is in support of the 13th Amendment. Most of them came into politics through Provincial Councils. Today, their children are also in Provincial Councils. Whatever anyone says, the President has the last say.

Q: But wouldn’t these contradicting statements and views within the government create confusion among the people, especially among the Tamil people?

This is a democratic environment. Everyone has the right to express his or her views. The President will stand by what is right and what he believes is practical. It would have been different with the LTTE. The LTTE did not give space for other ideas. Whatever its leader said had to be accepted by all, whether they liked it or not. This is a democratic government and therefore, everyone has the right to tell his or her views.

Q: There have been reports of a 19th amendment on the cards. What is it all about?

This is still at discussion stages. We are still looking at the possibilities. No substantial progress has been made on it. I believe that it would be an improvement of the 13th Amendment. There is no reason to worry. The government has made its stance clear and we will ensure we work towards it.

Q: As a Tamil representative within the government do you discuss with government members on these issues?

Of course, I do. I have briefed the government on what needs to be done. I do have frequent discussions with several members of the government on the matter.

Q: Would you agree to talk with the TNA if there is a need to do so?

Our aim is to solve the problem. Their aim is to aggravate the problem. I’m not saying because we are of different political parties. I am talking history. They spoilt each and every opportunity for their own political benefits.COURTESY:THE NATION