Archives

by Ranga Jayasuriya

EPDP leader Douglas Devananda yesterday refuted allegations of extortion by his party in government controlled areas of the North and East. He said he appreciated the government's peace bid , though the EPDP has its own 'reservations'.

"We appreciate the government's conduct in the peace process. The steps taken by Prime Minister to pave the way for peace should be welcomed, but the EPDP with its previous experience has its own reservations," he said. He welcomed the President's pledge at the SAARC summit to provide advice and support to the UNF administration in the peace process.

Devananda said the EPDP has not been involved in extortion from the lorries transporting goods to the uncleared areas in the Vanni and the shops in the army controlled areas in the North and the East. "We have no connection with such misdeeds, but other militant groups including the LTTE bribe the shopowners and lorry drivers".

Pointing to the conduct of the LTTE at earlier peace talks which he said were used by the Tigers to take time to regroup and rebuild forces for massive military operations, Devananda said his party would adopt a "wait and see" policy. 

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries |

Produced by Lake House
Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager