"Govt. has more to conceal than reveal in the war"

(January 20, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) UNP MP. Dr . Jayalath Jayawardena speaking to the media at the UNP media unit today ( 20 Jan) , said the President is putting up cut outs at all public places displaying his face more than those of the Forces in the military victories. Besides, after promising 85 % pension benefits to the Forces in the Mahinda Chintana is only giving 70 % benefits. President however does not hesitate to take credit for the victory of the Forces , only when it comes to giving the Forces what are due , he is incapacitated.

Following the Marvilaru operations ,over 5000 of the three Forces died and were maimed while some others retired ; none of them got the 85 % pension promised. But, the President sheds crocodile tears for those soldiers and Forces personnel. Dr. Jayawardena asked the Govt. not to use the Forces only for political goals.

Showing deep concern for the over two lakhs internally displaced persons (IDPs) and innocent civilians in the Wanni , he said there are over 3000 pregnant women , countless infants and aged citizens who are acutely suffering .As it is learnt that their welfare including food, medicines , transport , shelter and basic amenities are dismally lacking , he asked for permission in writing from the Defence Secretary , Gotabaya Rajapkse with copies to the President , Prime Minister and those in the Govt. hierarchy to visit Wanni with a view to looking into the problems of the IDPs and arrange for assistance . It is a pity that his letter dated 30th Dec. 2008 has not been replied by the Defence Secretary so far. However , replies received from others in the hierarchy say no permission can be granted due to security considerations . If the Govt. can allow its favored lot of media ‘men’ to visit , why cant it give permission to the duly elected people’s representatives ?, Dr. Jayawardena , asked.. The Govt. is only betraying its cruel and atrocious intentions by its refusal and actions , he observed. In other words , the Govt. has more to conceal than reveal on the war situation , he noted.

He said , several political parties , the TNA, the SLMC and others have joined with the UNP to form a group , Parliamentarians for human rights to combat the Govt.’s disregard for human rights and Democracy. - Sri Lanka Guardian