Sri Lanka's predominant Muslim party holds government and LTTE responsible for community's plight

Thu, 2006-10-19 05:25

Munza Mushtaq – Reporting from Colombo

Colombo, 19 October, (Asiantribune.com): The country's pre dominant Muslim Party, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) has lashed out at the government and the LTTE, holding both parties responsible for the sufferings befallen upon the community,
while declaring that neither two parties can negotiate for the Muslims at peace talks.

"Both sides must bear the responsibility for the sufferings of the Muslims due to the escalation of hostilities. Recent events has re-emphasized that Muslims have their own grievances, thus the LTTE and Government must accommodate a separate Muslim delegation endorsed by the community," SLMC leader Rauff Hakeem said.

He stressed that the government nor the LTTE can negotiate for the Muslims living in Sri Lanka, and only an independent delegation accepted by the Muslim community can negotiate for the sufferings befallen the community.

"Although Muslim are not directly involved in the conflict, they are directly affected by the conflict, the recent slaying of ten Muslim civilians in Pottuvil is one such example," Mr. Hakeem pointed out. .

Meanwhile the SLMC leader has sought an appointment from President Mahinda Rajapakse to discuss issues including the inclusion of a separate Muslim delegation and the setting up of an independent commission to investigate the Pottuvil massacre.

However owing to the President being pre-occupied with other matters, an appointment was yet to be granted.

Source:Asian Tribune