Karu says democratic dissent in north under attack

UNP MP Karu Jayasuriya yesterday warned that dissent in the Northern Province is under attack judging by the assault on the Uthayan newspaper office in Kilinochchi.

Following is the full statement issued by MP Jayasuriya:

“Once again the right of the people in the North to hold dissenting opinion has been threatened.  The latest example is the attack on the office of the Uthayan newspaper by goons.

According to the government, democratic rights have been established not only in the North but across the country. There cannot be room for any kind of harassment in the North. The attack on the Uthayan office has taken place under this background.”

“The problem is if there is security as stated by the government, who permitted and created the environment for these goons to behave as they wish and to reach their victims without any hindrance and flee from sight unharmed. The government must explain as to whether the security forces were asleep; whether they are subjected to any political influence preventing them from carrying out their entrusted duties.  How did the goons become so powerful to go above the forces?”

“Because in January, a similar attack was carried out on the Uthayan newspaper; unidentified goons assaulted a distributor of Uthayan newspaper and damaged his motorcycle and fled unharmed after burning the newspapers. Although almost three months have elapsed since the incident, those who are responsible are still at large.”

“We firmly believe that whether we agree or disagree with the other person’s opinion we have to respect his/her right to hold a dissenting view. It is an inborn quality of those who believe in democracy.  When we shoot down the messenger it will leave room for gossip mongering. Also it will bring about harmful results. We wish to emphasize that those who are in power should realize this truth.”