TNA IN A TIZZY OVER PARACHUTISTS

The Tamil National Alliance’s (TNA) decision to parachute candidates from other areas for the Northern provincial council election over the heads of local politicians who have been with the people for years, has irked many TNA local politicians, SLFP Jaffna district organiser Angajan Ramanathan said. SLFP Killinochchi and Jaffna district organisers also said TNA leaders at grass roots level are disappointed over the selection of candidates for the upcoming Provincial Council election and are leaving the party in droves. Ramanathan said a major rift within the party is imminent as they are angry over the party hierarchy’s abrupt decision. “Jaffna Opposition leader Maniattam Remedius of the TNA has already joined the SLFP,” Ramanathan said. Ramanathan said many TNA local politicians are hesitating to engage in the election campaign. “The popularity of the TNA among the Tamil population in Jaffna is sagging as the local government authorities managed by the TNA have done nothing for the benefit of the people,” he said. The Jaffna Chief SLFP organiser said almost all local government authorities run by the TNA have not used funds made available by the government for development. He said Jaffna has seen massive development due to programs implemented by the government. Meanwhile, Killinochchi SLFP organiser Geethanjali Naguleshwaran said the people in the North are aware that SLFP led governments have never engaged in election violations and have high regard for the SLFP. She said the SLFP is contesting an election in the Jaffna district after a lapse of 30 years and the people have great respect for the SLFP. SLFP leaders in the Jaffna district like former Telecommunication and Railway Minister Chelliah Kumarasurivar rendered a great service to the people in the Northern province. “The people still remember his service with gratitude,” she added.