The chief minister of the northern province, C V Wigneswaran said he would remain neutral and non-partisan during the next month's general election, despite being elected to his seat by the Tamil National Alliance (TNA). 

 

"I feel it would be wrong for me to be seen at any political meeting of the TNA candidates though it was they who elected me. I am one who would be able to work with whomsoever our people are pleased to elect. Whatever the result may be it is hoped that whosoever is elected should work united for the betterment and well being of our people. The welfare and wellbeing of our people takes precedence over Party considerations," the former chief justice said in a statement released on Wednesday, comparing his current predicament to a similar situation when he was elected to be the president of the Law College. 

 

Drawing attention to a recent address made to Tamils in London on July 17, Mr Wigneswaran reiterated: 

 

"As far as the Tamil representatives are concerned we need those who would conform to the norms set by Valluvar - honest in politics, strong in principles, dedicated in people's service, far in sight and incorruptible in spirit. Such persons must stress the individuality of our community, they must confirm our right to self determination, they must be prepared to work ceaselessly to obtain the rights of our people and to obtain justice for them."

 

"I fervently believe that the challenges in front of us demand the calibre of Tamil representatives I referred to in the UK," he added. 

 

Recalling a question posed to him by a politician from the South - whether the TNA would accept ministerships in the new government if offered, Mr Wigneswaran said "my view was that under no circumstances should our representatives accept portfolios until a political solution is found."

 

"Otherwise the demands of our people would get dissipated and we would be engulfed by the majority community. The Ministers would be stifled by Cabinet Responsibility. lt would be the surest way to compromise our rights and aspirations."

 

"My statement above sets a high watermark not only for the kind of political culture and ethos we should nurture in our own society but it also applies to this Country as a whole."

(Tamil Guardian)