Ramanathan Archuna, the newly elected Independent Member of Parliament from the Jaffna District, has become a polarizing figure following his unconventional actions during the ceremonial opening of the 10th Parliament. A former medical officer turned politician, Archuna has used social media to voice concerns about corruption and a purported “medical mafia” in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province. His outspoken nature and online popularity helped him contest independently and secure a seat in Parliament.
During the Parliament’s opening session, Archuna drew attention by sitting in the seat traditionally reserved for the Leader of the Opposition, disregarding explanations from parliamentary officers about protocol. He also live-streamed the event on Facebook, continuing his habit of using social media as a platform to connect with his followers.
In a subsequent video and post, Archuna referred to himself as coming from the “Land of Eelam,” expressing gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives for the Tamil nationalist cause. His remarks further fueled controversy, given the sensitive political and historical context of Sri Lanka’s ethnic tensions.
Before entering politics, Archuna served as a medical officer in Chavakachcheri, where his activities reportedly disrupted hospital operations. In July, the Ministry of Health transferred him to the Peradeniya District Hospital following complaints about his conduct.
Archuna now faces at least 18 legal cases filed against him by police and fellow doctors, with proceedings ongoing in the Chavakachcheri and Mannar courts. The cases involve allegations ranging from professional misconduct to actions that reportedly interfered with hospital administration.
Despite the legal challenges and criticism, Archuna’s supporters see him as a whistleblower and a disruptor of traditional politics. His controversial actions and rhetoric have sparked significant debate, both in Parliament and on social media, about his role and future in Sri Lankan politics.
This is for you information only.
This is what I wrote to Arjun who spoke about Thileepen
Don’t share unless you feel it is safe to do so.
I am sharing my opinion as an observer who was present in Sri Lanka during the conflict regard the Theelepan.
Based on my understanding and experience, the Sri Lankan government and military were fighting the LTTE, not the Tamil community as a whole. For generations, Tamil, Muslim, and other communities lived peacefully together in Sri Lanka. The situation changed dramatically as the LTTE resorted to violence, including the killing of Tamil political leaders and others who opposed its ideology.
Successive Sri Lankan governments offered various political solutions to resolve the conflict, but those efforts ultimately failed to achieve a lasting settlement with the LTTE leadership.
To keep my point brief, regardless of how the conflict is explained in your YouTube stories, the LTTE was designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, and those designations have legal consequences that remain relevant today. Any discussion about commemorating individuals associated with the organization must take into account the applicable laws and the specific circumstances involved.
I have watched your YouTube stories, and I genuinely admire your talent, presentation, and courage in speaking openly about difficult issues. I encourage you to continue your work fearlessly, fairly, and without bias. History deserves honest examination, and the truth should never be suppressed.
Thank you for taking the time to read my message. I respect your right to express your views, just as I have the right to express mine. I do not intend to engage with others in arguments or respond to further comments. I simply wanted to share my perspective directly with you.
Best wishes for your continued work.