UNP, JVP to revive terror reign - AFMD

Dulshani GUNAWARDENA

The Association of Family Members of the Disappeared (AFMD) stated that the JVP and the UNP who as two opposite fronts were responsible for the disappearance of more than 60,000 innocent civilians in the 87-90 era 20 years ago, had joined forces now in the revival of their reign of terror by nominating military rule to protect democracy.

This statement was made at a press briefing at the N.M. Perera Centre yesterday by the AFMD. Convener Chameera Perera, Chairman Ven Prof Baddegama Samitha Thera and Chief Secretary Shantha D.Pathirana addressed media at this occasion.

They emphasized the need for a correct leadership to safeguard democracy and the rights of all people. President Mahinda Rajapaksa is the best candidate for the job. Twenty years ago, as a member of the progressive front of the SLFP, he took the forefront in standing up against the reign of terror.

Emphasizing that they bore no political agenda, the AFMD stated that their priority was that of safeguarding the freedom of the country. Being the worst affected in the previous calamity, their priority was that of preventing such a situation occurring over again.

They queried how a person with over 40 years experience of issuing orders, could run a country through democracy. Though respecting the General's military prowess, they questioned how he allowed himself to be lowered to the position of a henchman to two power hungry political parties valiantly striving to reach their narrow political goals.