-By A Staff Writer
(Lanka-e-News -10.Oct.2024, 6.00 pm) The Ilangai Tamil Arasu Katchi (ITAK) party is reportedly on the brink of a major split as tensions between senior leaders continue to escalate ahead of the upcoming general election. Key figures, including Mavai Senathirajah, the party leader, have been notably absent from the election campaign, fueling speculation about the party’s unity.
Charles Nirmalanathan, a prominent member of ITAK, initially announced that he would not run for election, only to reverse his decision shortly after. He issued a stern warning to Sumanthiran, a central figure in the party, cautioning him against becoming a “one-man show” in handling political affairs.
Former Assistant Government Agent (AGA) Mr. Manickam has expressed dissatisfaction with Sumanthiran’s leadership. Manickam has hinted that he may align with a common opposition alliance rather than remain with ITAK. He also mentioned that the party has no plans to field a candidate in the Colombo district, which he believes signals the party’s weakening influence. Similarly, senior member Tavarasa echoed these concerns, stating that ITAK is rapidly losing political ground.
Adding to the internal strife, the Tamil Democratic National Alliance (TDNA) has accused Sumanthiran of undermining Tamil political unity. TDNA leaders claim Sumanthiran is “selling out” Tamil votes by aligning with politicians like Sajith Premadasa, calling it a betrayal of Tamil interests.
Sridharan, another senior leader, has refused to participate in media events, distancing himself from Sumanthiran’s decisions. He argued that Sumanthiran has no authority to unilaterally control party affairs or nominate non-party members as candidates.
In a further blow to the party’s cohesion, several key figures—Vimaleshwari, Nagaranjani, Ahilan, Navalan, and Aingaran—have left ITAK. They are expected to join the TDNA, which garnered over 250,000 votes in the previous election.
Observers suggest that these developments may signal the end of ITAK’s dominance in Tamil politics. Despite his attempts to present himself as a leader to the Tamil diaspora and diplomats in Colombo, Sumanthiran’s political decisions—especially his alliance with Sajith Premadasa—are widely regarded as missteps. Many view him as a failed politician who has backed himself into a corner.
As the election draws nearer, Sumanthiran faces the formidable challenge of proving his leadership. Critics argue that if he truly believes in his political vision, he should contest the election and secure a preferential vote, rather than relying on nationalist rhetoric. The stakes are high for Sumanthiran, and the outcome of the election will determine whether he can regain credibility within his own party and the Tamil community at large.
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by (2024-10-10 12:59:34)
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