EP Poll catalyst for progress - President

COLOMBO: The Opposition is already trotting out various excuses to justify their imminent defeat at the Eastern Poll on May 10, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said yesterday.

Addressing residents of the Eastern Province live via satellite, President Rajapaksa said the very same persons who virtually handed over the Eastern Province to the LTTE on a platter were now enjoying the freedom granted by the Government following the Eastern Province's liberation, addressing rallies and campaigning.

The President said a massive development has been launched in the East following its liberation last year, the fruits of which will soon be enjoyed by its residents.

Commenting on the transformation of the TMVP, he said the entry to the democratic stream of groups which had previously believed in the bullet was a good sign for democracy.

"There are those who urge the TMVP to lay down arms. But do they ever request Prabhakaran to lay down arms ? On the other hand, some want us to talk to him and sign peace accords with him." He said Pilleyan should be given an opportunity to experience the democratic set-up. He asserted that the Government would liberate the North and give an opportunity for the people there to enjoy democracy.

"An election is being held here after 20 years following the Supreme Court verdict on the demerger. They have been longing for democracy for two decades. They should be given a chance to decide on development projects in their own areas.

That cannot be decided from Colombo." He noted that the Easterners were keen on having a separate administration for their region. Someone in Kilinochchi would not be in a position to decide on a development activity in Ampara. Therefore, a separate Eastern administration is ideal.

During the nationally televised programme, the people were given a chance to ask questions from the President in addition to the questions raised by the presenters.