Channel 4 video:

Attempt to undermine reconciliation process - Minister Weerawansa

by Uditha KUMARASINGHE

Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities Minister Wimal Weerawansa said the new Channel 4 program is an attempt to create racial disharmony and dissension and thereby embarass the President and the Government of Sri Lanka.

"The people do not seem to have a proper understanding of the gravity of this program. Immediate measures should be taken to educate the public on the threat posed to the country. The External Affairs Ministry has a more responsible role to play in this regard, similar to the one played by our Armed Forces to eradicate LTTE terrorism from the country," the Minister told the Sunday Observer yesterday.

He said the Government should open a dialogue with friendly countries as well as other neutral countries to defeat this conspiracy.

"Channel 4 had launched various baseless allegations and hatched conspiracies against the Government with LTTE funds. It has hardened its approach towards this country. The channel, in its new documentary has attempted to accuse our Armed Forces of extra-judicial killings. However, there are no valid grounds to prove that the culprits are from the Sri Lankan Armed Forces. Such visuals could be created using people from any location or any other country," he said.

Minister Weerawansa said the channel 4 documentary is just a collection of visuals previously aired through LTTE websites and a minuscule section of the international media with vested interests. This controversial doctored video, released to the international community is an attempt at undermining the present reconciliation and development process.

"The intention of certain Western powers and pro-LTTE elements is to bring President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the military top brass before an International War Crimes Tribunal for eradicating LTTE terrorism in the country. This is what these Western powers did to the Heads of States of Sudan and Serbia as well. No room should be left for this international conspiracy to succeed. It should be defeated with the help of friendly countries," he said.

At present the LLRC is in the process of making its report. The Government will take steps to rectify any shortcomings or lapses once the LLRC report is released, the Minister said.