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Karunanidhi Yasodini, a former LTTE combatant, officially launched her campaign in Mannar as a candidate for the upcoming parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka. Representing the Democratic Tamil National Alliance (DTNA) in the Vavuniya electoral district, Yasodini is contesting under the conch symbol and has garnered significant support from fellow former combatants.
Her campaign began with a series of public meeting including Mannar Nagar Bazaar, Shanthipuram Besalai, and Nanatan. Numerous former LTTE members and local supporters participated in the meetings, showing solidarity for Yasodini's candidacy. The Mannar District Association and the Nalampuri Association were also in attendance at these gatherings.
In a parallel campaign meeting held in Vannivilangulam, Mullaitivu district, where several figures from the former LTTE cadres community spoke in support of Yasodini. The former cadres Welfare Association, led the event with several of their members addressing the need for them to make their parliamentary bid in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankans will be going to the polls less than three months after electing their President to vote for their parliament.
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Meanwhile, an independent group of former cadres and differently-abled individuals, contesting under the symbol of a lantern, voiced their concerns about the neglect they face from mainstream politicians. During a media briefing in Vavuniya this week, they highlighted the struggles of disabled former cadres, many of whom live in poverty and face numerous daily challenges. "None of these politicians see us as more than pawns for their business interests," said one spokesperson. The group emphasized that their decision to contest the election stems from a desire to address their own needs, as they believe they are better positioned to understand the struggles of those directly affected by the war.
