ISGA is a credible document, Business Leader says

[TamilNet, Tuesday, 07 December 2004, 11:55 GMT]
"Interim Self Governing Authority (ISGA) proposal from the Liberation Tigers is a credible document. Many Southern political parties endangering peace by rejecting the ISGA without comprehensively analysing the proposal and identifying the positive aspects," said Deva Rodrigo, chairman of the Sri Lanka chamber of commerce, during a discussion at Colombo Plaza Hotel last week with a delegation of South African businessmen, sources said.

"Although there are some controversial clauses, the ISGA is the only document the Liberation Tigers have produced in the last twenty years articulating their view on the type of interim political arrangement they like to see. Hence it is an important document.

"The responsibility of conveying the positive aspects of ISGA proposals of LTTE to the people of south is in the hands of business society. It is not an easy task. South is filled with bitterness, anger, doubt and fear. The business community should accept this challenge," Mr Rodrigo added.

At a time when more than 99 percent of the people have not studied the contents of the ISGA, it is projected by the South as a blue print for separation. What is important is that LTTE had placed a set of proposals in front us for our consideration. Our sincere efforts to make use of the positive aspects of the ISGA are essential to avoid failure of our work during the last two years.

"The South African peace process was successful because the people had the focus and determination to create a democratic South Africa for all. Like wise we should be clear of our goal," he added.

Nila Maricar the chairman of Sri Lanka business consortium that invited the South African delegation, speaking on the occasion said: "Sri Lanka political parties do not yet have a credible solution. However, the positive element is that the South understands the need to resume the stalled peace process. Peace process can be strengthened only when the Southern political parties work together and build a consensus."