Tamil political parties, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens express grave concern over the sustained political conduct of M. A. Sumanthiran, whose actions over the years have weakened Tamil political unity, eroded internal democratic norms, and compromised long-standing Tamil national positions.
Deliberate Fragmentation of Tamil Political Unity
Sumanthiran played a central role in the disintegration of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), resulting in the departure of long-standing constituent parties such as TELO, EPRLF, and the Tamil Congress.
This fragmentation significantly reduced Tamil collective bargaining power at both the national and international levels, weakening the unified voice essential for addressing Tamil political grievances.
Undemocratic Re-Entry and Internal Power Consolidation
Despite lacking a direct popular mandate, Sumanthiran re-entered party leadership through indirect and undemocratic means, assuming the position of Secretary of ITAK.
This occurred after Dr. Sathiyalingam was removed from the Secretary post on the grounds of alleged ill health—despite continuing to travel to Colombo and actively serve as a Member of Parliament.
This episode raises serious concerns regarding:
- Internal party democracy
- Ethical political conduct
- Respect for institutional norms
Marginalization of Tamil Patriots, Particularly in the East
Subsequently, former Members of Parliament and well-known Tamil patriots—especially from the Eastern Province—were systematically sidelined and forced out of party structures.
This further alienated grassroots Tamil voices and deepened internal divisions at a critical historical moment.
Targeting Democratically Elected Representatives
Sumanthiran is now exerting pressure on S. Sritharan, MP, to resign from the Constitutional Council.
This demand disregards clear democratic facts:
- Sritharan was lawfully elected by 21 Members of Parliament
- He secured 11 votes, constituting a legitimate parliamentary mandate
Any attempt to force his resignation constitutes a direct assault on parliamentary democracy and the rule of law.
Record of Political Concessions Against Tamil Interests
- Sumanthiran has repeatedly taken positions that contradict core Tamil political demands. He has:
- Undermined international accountability mechanisms and investigations
- Accepted and promoted the North–East de-merger
- Advocated granting foremost constitutional status to Buddhism
- Voted in favor of establishing 1,000 Buddhist viharas in Tamil regions
- Promoted the concept of “Ekiya Rajja” (unitary state) through misleading narratives that dilute Tamil historical and political claims
These positions collectively advance the consolidation of a centralized Sinhala-Buddhist state, not justice or equality for the Tamil people.
Contradictory Public Statements and Political Purpose
Sumanthiran has publicly stated that he considers himself “fortunate to live among the Sinhala community.”
While coexistence and mutual respect are not disputed, this statement exposes a profound political contradiction.
If Sumanthiran genuinely believes that the Sinhala-majority political framework adequately protects rights and dignity, the Tamil people are compelled to ask:
What is his political purpose in Tamil Eelam, and whom does he truly represent?
Tamil Eelam is not a ghetto, a testing ground, or a secondary political space—it is the historic homeland of a people whose political rights remain unresolved.
Rejected by the Tamil Electorate
For over a decade, Sumanthiran repeatedly claimed he was preparing to resign from politics, at one point stating that 75% of a resignation letter had already been written.
That resignation never materialized.
Instead, the Tamil people themselves delivered a verdict at the ballot box, rejecting him in the last election and withdrawing their democratic mandate.
Conclusion
The Tamil people categorically reject politics driven by personal ego, unilateral decision-making, and disregard for collective will.
The future of Tamil politics must be grounded in:
Democratic legitimacy
- Accountability
- Unity
- Respect for the people’s mandate
Any individual who consistently undermines these principles cannot credibly claim to represent the Tamil nation.