LTTE targets home of free speech:

Oxford Union cancels President’s Address

The Oxford Union has cancelled the proposed address by President Mahinda Rajapaksa. They cited security concerns for doing so.

President Rajapaksa is in the UK with a senior delegation of politicians and business leaders. During this visit the delegation will meet with UK parliamentarians, business leaders and members of the Sri Lankan community in the UK. A statement issued by Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga said: “For security reasons the speech by President Rajapaksa at the Oxford Union, the home of free speech, has been cancelled.

This is a decision that has been made unilaterally by the Oxford Union, reportedly as a result of pressure applied by pro-LTTE activists.” President Rajapaksa said: “I am very sorry this has had to be cancelled but I will continue to seek venues in the UK and elsewhere where I can talk about my future vision for Sri Lanka.” He said: “I will also continue in my efforts to unite all the people of our country whether they live in Sri Lanka or overseas. As a united country we have a great future. If we allow divisions to dominate we will not realise our true potential. We have had 30 years of division and conflict. We must now secure peace and harmony for all Sri Lankans.”