Former LTTE member and rehabilitated cadre K. Inbarasa has called on Tamil families to rally behind his candidacy in the upcoming parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka, presenting it as an opportunity for the Tamil community to gain representation and a voice in government. Speaking at a media conference in Vavuniya, Inbarasa emphasized the unique position of rehabilitated LTTE members in addressing the needs and grievances of Eelam Tamils, urging a united front to advance Tamil interests.
“We, as the party of rehabilitated fighters, cannot afford to miss this rare chance to have our voices heard in the Sri Lankan Parliament,” said Inbarasa. “Though we, as former LTTE, cannot officially represent the organization, we can represent its ideals and the aspirations of our people if Tamil families, especially those of the 12,000 rehabilitated fighters, support us with their votes.”
Inbarasa went on to criticize established Tamil political parties, contending that they have not adequately represented the fighters or addressed the needs of their families. “If we are elected, it will signal that other Tamil parties must take a back seat. Our fighters struggled for the people, yet it is others who have gained parliamentary seats and influence,” he said, stressing that those who fought for Tamil Eelam deserve the chance to protect their community's rights, security, and advance career opportunities.
Addressing recent remarks made by former state minister Mastan, who allegedly claimed Tamil votes could be easily won with food packets and alcohol, Inbarasa expressed outrage, calling it a sign of disrespect toward the Eelam Tamils. “To think that 40,000 fighters were lost and hundreds of thousands of lives affected by such tactics is deeply saddening. Our people deserve better than to have their loyalty taken for granted with these types of offerings,” he added.
Inbarasa urged Tamil voters to avoid supporting candidates who undermine or trivialize the sacrifices of Tamil fighters. “We have waited patiently for 15 years, enduring countless challenges,” he said. “If you are to vote, choose Tamil candidates who will stand up for us and give our people a real voice. Let us not squander our votes on those who mock our struggle and dismiss our needs.”
Inbarasa is not the only former LTTE cadre who is contesting the upcoming parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka. He joins many others some of whom are under the umbrella of other Tamil political parties. This appeal by him and others highlights a broader sentiment within the Tamil community seeking meaningful political representation in Sri Lanka's government as they continue to push back on many fronts including land grabs, militarization of the North-East and systematic discrimination of the Tamil people.
