Tamil National Alliance (TNA) spokesman MA Sumanthiran has defended National People’s Power (NPP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake against accusations of racial insensitivity following his recent remarks in the North. Anura’s comments, suggesting that opposition to change in the South might cast Jaffna in a negative light, were criticized by President Ranil Wickremesinghe as a threat to the Northern population.

Sumanthiran dismissed claims that Anura’s remarks were racially motivated, stating, “I know him too well. He is not one to harbor racist feelings.” He said Anura’s commitment to combating racism and affirmed the TNA's continued support for  Sajith in the upcoming election, while also expressing readiness to work with Dissanayake on common objectives.

Meanwhile , President Wickremesinghe condemned statements as coercive and threatening, asserting that the North's residents would be protected by law and calling for an apology from Anura to both Tamil and Southern communities.