Democracy in Jaffna Govt's aim - Devananda

Dharma Sri Abeyratne in Jaffna

JAFFNA: The Government's aim is to bring democracy and permanent peace to the people of Jaffna fed up with LTTE terrorism, Social Services and Social Welfare Minister Douglas Devananda said.

"The people in Jaffna are tired of LTTE terrorism since they have faced and experienced Tiger brutality for a long period," Minister Devananda told the Daily News. Devananda was in Jaffna to participate in the `Re-awakening Jaffna' programme (Yali Pubudamu Yapanaya) at the Alfred Duraiappa Stadium.

The Re-awakening Jaffna programme which had musical shows daily, is the first such programme held in Jaffna after eight years.

"The LTTE has built a bad image about the Security Forces among the people of Jaffna that they are neither friendly nor humanitarian.

"Therefore, this type of social activity helpes bridge the gap between the people of Jaffna and security personnel. Events of this nature should be organised more frequently for a good understanding among different communities who live in the same country," the Minister said.

The Minister also praised the Government for steps taken to bring peace to the country by eradicating LTTE terrorism. In accordance with the concept of Security Forces Commander Major General G.A. Chandrasiri, the Re-awakening Jaffna programme was organised by the Army's 51st Brigade aiming to build a strong bond between security personnel and civilians of Jaffna peninsula.

The 'Re-awakening Jaffna' programme was held from May 23 to 25 consisting of various events such as marathons, bicycle races and musical shows daily.