Sun Nov 10 16:32:19 UTC 2024: ## Sri Lankan President Promises Land Return to Tamils Ahead of Parliamentary Polls

**JAFFNA, Sri Lanka:** In a bid to garner support ahead of the November 14 parliamentary elections, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has pledged to return land currently held by state agencies to Tamils. Addressing a large rally in Jaffna on Sunday, Mr. Dissanayake emphasized his commitment to ensuring Tamils have greater autonomy and control over their regions.

The President, who took office in September, acknowledged his party’s (National People’s Power or NPP) previous lack of support in Tamil-majority areas and attributed it to ineffective messaging and insufficient campaigning. He expressed hope that the enthusiastic turnout at his Jaffna rally indicates a new wave of support among Tamil voters.

Mr. Dissanayake further promised to hold elections for the defunct provincial councils and local bodies, empowering Tamil communities to govern themselves. However, while his manifesto mentioned addressing the ethnic question through a new constitution, he made no direct reference to Tamils’ demand for greater power devolution.

Addressing specific concerns raised by Tamils, Mr. Dissanayake promised to revitalize industries in the north and create jobs, combat the growing drug problem, and support farmers and fishermen. He also pledged to prevent illegal fishing by Indian trawlers, which has significantly impacted the local marine ecosystem and fishermen’s livelihoods.

Many attendees at the rally, like Jaffna resident R. Sasikala, expressed hope that the President will deliver on his promises, particularly regarding a brighter future for their children. Others, like A. Akilathasan, who previously voted for Tamil nationalist parties, expressed a willingness to give Mr. Dissanayake a chance, citing past disappointments with those parties.

Mr. Dissanayake’s speech and the positive reception he received indicate a potential shift in Tamil voter sentiment. His promise of land return and emphasis on unity and equality might resonate with Tamils who are seeking a change from the previous government’s policies. However, the extent to which he can fulfill his promises and build trust among different communities remains to be seen.

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