Wigneswaran refuses to campaign for TNA

by P. Krishnaswamy

Chief Minister, Northern Province, C.V. Wigneswaran’s public remarks about his decision to not engage in TNA’s election campaign, has irked party supporters. TNA Spokesman, former parliamentarian, Suresh Premachandren claimed it was Wigneswaran’s duty to work for the victory of the party in his capacity as Chief Minister of the Council.

Wigneswaran in a public statement last week, commented on the criticism levelled at him by the TNA for not maintaining a neutral and non-partisan stance following his election as Chief Minister in 2013 and said it was to demonstrate neutrality that he would not be involved in election propaganda work.

His statement came soon after his return from visits to the US and the UK, where he had meetings with associations of Tamil Diaspora communities.

Wigneswaran further said, the welfare and wellbeing of the Northern people had to take precedence over party considerations and irrespective of the outcome, they would look to friends in the international community to support the Tamil people as they attempt to shape a future that is built on strong democratic foundations.

Meanwhile, Premachandren in a media statement expressed hope that Wigneswaran would work for the victory of the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK), the main constituent of the TNA, although he may not like to canvass for particular individuals in the fray.

Tamil political analysts told the Sunday Observer, Wigneswaran may avoid canvassing for specific candidates but a complete disengagement would imply a ‘hidden agenda’.